UPSC Prelims 2003 · General Studies

Question 83: Economy and Social Development

Which one of the following statements is correct?

aIndia is the second largest producer of nitrogenous fertilisers in the world

bIndia is the ninth largest steel producing country in the world

cIndia is the second largest producer of silk in the world

dIndia ranks third in the world in coal production

AnswerThe answer is (b).

India ranked ninth in world steel production around 2002, which is the statement the key accepts. The other options claim ranks for fertilisers, silk and coal that the key does not accept. Production rankings shift quickly as countries add capacity, so facts of this kind are tied to a particular year and should be revised from the latest Economic Survey.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) The key does not accept the second rank claimed for nitrogenous fertilisers.
(b) Correct, per the key: ninth in steel.
(c) India is a leading silk producer, second to China, so this also looks broadly true.
(d) The key rejects the claim of third place in coal.

Worth knowing: India is now the second-largest steel producer, so the ranking is dated, and the silk claim in (c) is also broadly true, so the question is shaky.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2003, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.