UPSC Prelims 2014 · CSAT
Question 3: Reading Comprehension
Consider the following statements : According to the author, India's economy has grown but there is no room for complacency as
- 1.growth eradicates poverty.
- 2.growth has resulted in prosperity for all.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
The author treats growth as a needed ingredient in removing poverty, but not enough by itself, so growth alone does not end poverty. The author also notes that the gains have not yet reached everyone and argues for spreading them further; that is why satisfaction with the record would be misplaced. Both statements claim more for growth than the author does, so neither is correct. Watch for absolutes in the statements.
- 1. Growth is called a needed but insufficient step towards ending poverty.
- 2. Gains have not yet reached everyone; the author wants them spread further.
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: Growth is called a needed but insufficient step towards ending poverty.
- Then, if you were sure statement 2 is not correct, (b) goes: it includes 2.
What you needed to know: Gains have not yet reached everyone; the author wants them spread further.
Only (d) 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) Growth is needed for ending poverty, but the passage says it is not enough by itself.
- (b) Prosperity for all has not been achieved; the benefits so far have been unevenly spread.
- (c) Both statements overstate; the author makes neither claim.
- (d) Right. Both statements go beyond what the passage says.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2014, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.