2023 CSAT, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2023 · CSAT

Question 42: Reading Comprehension

Passage – 2 · as printed by UPSC
Passage beginning “A global analysis of nitrogen use efficiency…”

Which one of the following statements best reflects the most logical, rational and crucial message implied by the passage ?

aAn enhanced efficiency of use of nitrogen is imperative for both food production and environment.
bProduction of synthetic nitrogen fertilizers cannot be stopped as it will adversely affect global food security.
cAlternatives to crops that require excess of nitrogen should be identified and cultivated.
dConventional agriculture using synthetic fertilizers should be replaced with agroforestry, agroecosystems and organic farming.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).

The passage says plants use only about 40 per cent of the nitrogen added to cropland while 60 per cent is lost, polluting water and air and releasing a potent greenhouse gas, yet over half the world's people depend on food grown with synthetic nitrogen. The message that fits both facts: raise nitrogen use efficiency, which protects food production and the environment. Stopping fertilizer, switching crops or replacing conventional farming are not proposed.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Right: better nitrogen use efficiency serves both food and the environment.
  • (b) Wrong: the passage does not discuss whether fertilizer production can be stopped.
  • (c) Wrong: alternative crops are not suggested.
  • (d) Wrong: replacing conventional agriculture is not proposed.

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.