UPSC Prelims 1998 · General Studies
Question 81: Geography
The discovery of Oak flora in 1966 added a new chapter to the history of Indian sericulture. Which one of the following states is the leading producer of Oak tasar silk?
AnswerThe answer is (c).
Oak tasar silk (from Antheraea proylei, reared on oak trees) is produced in the sub-Himalayan belt, and Manipur is the leading producer. Do not confuse the silk types: mulberry silk comes mainly from Karnataka, tasar from Bihar (now Jharkhand), eri from Assam and the north-east, and muga only from Assam.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Assam is known for muga and eri silk.
- (b) Bihar is known for tropical tasar, not oak tasar.
- (c) Right: Manipur is the leading oak tasar producer.
- (d) Orissa is known for tropical tasar, not oak tasar.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1998, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.