UPSC Prelims 2019 · CSAT

Question 43: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “Most invasive species are neither terribly…” — Passage - 2 · as printed by UPSC

Which one of the following is the most logical and rational inference that can be made from the above passage ?

aInvasive species should be used to rehabilitate desert areas and wastelands of a country.

bLaws against the introduction of foreign plants are unnecessary.

cSometimes, the campaigns against foreign plants are pointless.

dForeign plants should be used to increase the biodiversity of a country.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).

The passage says most invasive species are neither very successful nor very harmful, that new arrivals nearly always raise diversity without driving natives extinct, and that invaders mainly settle disturbed or empty ground. If many foreign plants do little harm, then campaigns against them are sometimes pointless. The passage does not recommend using them for rehabilitation or to raise biodiversity, and it does not claim laws against them are unnecessary.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Wrong: the passage notes where invaders settle, but does not recommend using them.
(b) Wrong: too sweeping; most, not all, are harmless.
(c) Right: if most are harmless, some campaigns are pointless.
(d) Wrong: it describes diversity gains but does not advise introducing plants for that purpose.

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

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2019, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.