UPSC Prelims 2012 · CSAT
Question 53: Reading Comprehension
Consider the following assumptions :
- 1.It is imperative for transition economies to have agricultural collectivities.
- 2.Agricultural productivity can be increased by group approach to farming.
With reference to the above passage, which of these assumptions is/are valid ?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).
The passage argues that a group approach to farming offers scope for raising agricultural productivity, so assumption 2 is valid. It also says there are many examples of successful collectivities in transition economies, which shows that cooperation is possible there, not that it is imperative for those economies to have collectivities. So assumption 1 is not valid. Remember: showing that something works is not the same as showing it is necessary.
- 1. The passage cites successful collectivities in transition economies but never calls them imperative.
- 2. Group farming is argued to enhance agricultural productivity.
How you could have got this
- If you were sure statement 1 is not correct, (a) and (c) go: each of them includes 1.
What you needed to know: The passage cites successful collectivities in transition economies but never calls them imperative.
- Then, if you were sure statement 2 is correct, (d) goes: it leaves 2 out.
What you needed to know: Group farming is argued to enhance agricultural productivity.
Only (b) is left. This one needs every statement.
Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. Assumption 1 is not supported; examples of success do not make it imperative.
- (b) Right. Only the productivity assumption holds.
- (c) Wrong. Assumption 1 is not valid.
- (d) Wrong. Assumption 2 is valid.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2012, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.