UPSC Prelims 2012 · CSAT

Question 9: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “Chemical pesticides lose their role in…” — Passage – 2 · as printed by UPSC

What does the passage imply ?

aAlternative options to chemical pesticides should be promoted.

bToo much use of chemicals is not good for the ecosystem.

cThere is no scope for the improvement of pesticides and making their use sustainable.

dBoth the statements (a) and (b) above are correct.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).

The passage backs pesticide use only on terms: it says sustainability depends on a steady supply of newer pesticides that linger less, break down naturally and hit the pest more precisely. That implies two things: better options than today's harmful chemicals should be sought, and heavy chemical use is bad for the ecosystem (statements a and b). Option (c) is the reverse of the passage, which sees clear scope for improvement. Remember: in an implication question, pick what follows from the author's caution, not what the author states outright.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Right as an implication: the worry about persistent, non-biodegradable chemicals supports seeking better alternatives.
(b) Right as an implication: persistence and poor targeting signal ecological harm from excessive use.
(c) Wrong. The passage says pesticides can be improved to make their use sustainable.
(d) Right. Both (a) and (b) hold, which is UPSC's answer.

Worth knowing: The passage mostly defends pesticide use and speaks of better pesticides, so promoting alternatives (a) is an inference; the key accepts it, but it is arguable.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2012, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.