UPSC Prelims 2023 · CSAT

Question 11: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “The emissions humans put into the…” — Passage – 1 · as printed by UPSC

Which one of the following statements best reflects the crucial message conveyed by the author of the passage ?

aBusinesses that cause emissions may need to close down or pay for pollution in future.

bThe only solution is technological development related to the issues of climate change.

cWaiting to deal with carbon emissions until technology improves is not a wise strategy.

dSince future technological change is uncertain, new industries should be based on renewable energy sources.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).

The passage says today's emissions shape the climate from mid-century, and that future technology may or may not make the shift away from fossil fuels cheap. Because that outcome is uncertain, relying on it leaves a harsh choice between costly cuts and living with warming. So the author's central message is that postponing action on carbon emissions until technology improves is unwise. Businesses are told to hedge against uncertainty, which follows from the main point rather than being it.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Wrong: closure or paying for pollution is not stated; the passage speaks of failing to hedge.
(b) Wrong: the passage calls technology uncertain; it never calls it the only solution.
(c) Right: waiting for better technology is a risky strategy.
(d) Wrong: the passage does not say new industries should be based on renewables.

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

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2023, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.