UPSC Prelims 2010 · General Studies
Question 15: Economy and Social Development
In the context of the affairs of which of the following is the phrase “Special Safeguard Mechanisms” mentioned in the news frequently ?
AnswerThe answer is (b).
The Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM) is a proposal in the WTO's Doha Round agriculture negotiations. It would let developing countries temporarily raise tariffs when imports surge or world prices fall sharply, to protect poor farmers. India and other developing members pressed for it, and disagreement over its trigger levels was one reason the Doha talks stalled. Remember: SSM = WTO agriculture, a developing-country safeguard against import surges.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) UNEP deals with the environment, not trade safeguards.
- (b) Right: SSM is a WTO Doha Round agriculture proposal.
- (c) The ASEAN-India agreement is a bilateral trade pact; the SSM debate belongs to the WTO.
- (d) G-20 summits do not negotiate SSM; it was a WTO negotiating issue.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2010, General Studies, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.