UPSC Prelims 2020 · CSAT

Question 6: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “Although most of the Genetically Modified…” — Passage—5 · as printed by UPSC

Which one of the following statements best implies the crux of the passage?

aPrecautionary principle is not given importance in current debate on developing GM crops.

bBiotechnology is not currently used in climate change mitigation and adaptation mechanisms.

cBiotechnology's role is not confined to the current priorities of developing GM crops.

dThe negative impacts of biotechnology are not properly understood.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).

The passage starts with GM crops that carry one trait today and more traits tomorrow, then brings in climate change, and concludes that biotechnology and its regulation cannot be judged only through today's GM crops. Its crux is that biotechnology's role is wider than the present focus on GM crops, including climate mitigation and adaptation. Remember: the main idea is the broadening of scope, not a complaint about one policy.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) The precautionary principle is not mentioned.
(b) The passage says biotechnology should be part of the climate action plan; it does not claim it is unused now.
(c) Right: the passage widens the view beyond present GM crops to climate and trade.
(d) Negative impacts are to be minimised, but the passage never says they are poorly understood.

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

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2020, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.