UPSC Prelims 2018 · CSAT

Question 79: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “A male tiger was removed from…” — Passage—2 · as printed by UPSC

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

aThe conflict between man and wildlife cannot be resolved, no matter what efforts we make.

bSafe wildlife corridors between protected areas is an essential aspect of conservation efforts.

cIndia needs to declare more protected areas and set up more tiger reserves.

dIndia's National Parks and Tiger Reserves need to be professionally managed.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).

The passage tells of a tiger moved to a new reserve that walked about 250 miles back towards home. It notes that many reserves are isolated islands while tigers range over a hundred miles, and that about a third of India's tigers live outside reserves. It concludes that tigers and prey can disperse only if recognised corridors link protected areas. So the crucial message is that safe corridors between protected areas are essential for conservation.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Corridors are offered as a remedy; the conflict is not called unsolvable.
(b) Correct: corridors between protected areas let tigers and prey disperse safely.
(c) More reserves are not proposed.
(d) Professional management of parks is not discussed.

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.