UPSC Prelims 2018 · CSAT

Question 56: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “Monoculture carries great risks. A single…” — Passage—8 · as printed by UPSC

Which of the following is the most logical, rational and crucial message given by the passage?

aPreserving crop genetic diversity is an insurance against the effects of climate change.

bDespite great risks, monoculture is the only way to ensure food security in the world.

cMore and more genetically modified crops only can save the world from impending shortages of food.

dAsia and North America will be worst sufferers from climate change and the consequent shortage of food.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).

The passage says monoculture is risky, because one disease or pest can wipe out a large share of food production just as demand grows, and climate change adds to the risk through floods in Asia and drought and spreading crop diseases in North America. The logical message is that keeping a wide range of crop varieties acts as insurance against these risks. Options on monoculture as the only way, on genetically modified crops, and on who suffers worst go beyond the passage.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Correct: variety guards against pests, disease and climate shocks.
(b) Says the opposite; monoculture is called risky.
(c) Genetically modified crops are never mentioned.
(d) Asia and North America are examples of different risks, not ranked as worst sufferers.

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

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2018, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.