2024 GS Paper I, all questions

UPSC Prelims 2024 · GS Paper I

Question 88: Geography

Consider the following statements :

  1. Statement-ISumed pipeline is a strategic route for Persian Gulf oil and natural gas shipments to Europe.
  2. Statement-IISumed pipeline connects the Red Sea with the Mediterranean Sea.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?

aBoth Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
bBoth Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
cStatement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
dStatement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).

The Sumed pipeline runs from Ain Sukhna on the Gulf of Suez (Red Sea) to Sidi Kerir on the Mediterranean coast near Alexandria. It lets Persian Gulf oil reach Europe without the whole voyage through the Suez Canal, which is why it is strategic. Statement-II, the Red Sea to Mediterranean link, is the reason it matters, so it explains Statement-I.

  • I. Sumed is a strategic route for Gulf oil to Europe.
  • II. It connects the Red Sea to the Mediterranean, which explains its strategic role.

How you could have got this

If you were sure Statement-I is correct, (d) goes. Then judge the second statement; if it is correct too, decide whether it explains the first.

What you needed to know: Sumed is a strategic route for Gulf oil to Europe.

Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.

Why each option is right or wrong
  • (a) Right: Sumed links the Red Sea to the Mediterranean, which is why it is a strategic route to Europe.
  • (b) Wrong: Statement-II does explain Statement-I.
  • (c) Wrong: Statement-II is correct.
  • (d) Wrong: Statement-I is correct in UPSC's key.

Worth knowing: Sumed is usually described as a crude oil pipeline, so 'and natural gas' in Statement-I is loose; UPSC's key accepts the statement.

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

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2024, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.