UPSC Prelims 2026 · CSAT
Question 71: Logical Reasoning and Mental Ability
Consider the following three statements, namely S1, S2 and S3 : S1. Protecting the environment is an existential exigency for humans, given the impact of environmental degradation on climate change. S2. Scientific consensus has not been achieved with regard to the extent of the contribution of human intervention to climate change. S3. Environmental activism includes climate alarmism and other extremist points of view that often become the focus of climate change deniers. Which of the following relationships based on the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1.S3 is a counterpoint to S1
- 2.S3 is unconnected to S1 and S2
- 3.S2 could be the reason for S3
Select the answer using the code given below.
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (d).
Only 3 is acceptable. S3 says activism includes alarmism and extremist views that deniers seize on; S2 says experts have not agreed on how much humans contribute to climate change. That uncertainty could plausibly feed extreme claims and give deniers an opening, so S2 could be a reason for S3. Statement 1 is wrong: S3 does not argue against S1 (that protecting the environment is vital); it criticises extremes within activism. Statement 2 is wrong: S3 is tied to both S1 and S2 through the activism and the debate over human causes.
- 1. S3 criticises extremes in activism; it does not oppose S1's call to protect the environment.
- 2. S3 connects to S1 through activism and to S2 through the debate over human causes.
- 3. Uncertainty over human contribution could feed extreme claims, which deniers then target.
How you could have got this
- If you were sure statement 2 is not correct, (a), (b) and (c) go: each of them includes 2.
What you needed to know: S3 connects to S1 through activism and to S2 through the debate over human causes.
Only (d) is left. You didn’t need statements 1 or 3.
This follows UPSC’s provisional key; the final key could change it.
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) Wrong: 2 says S3 is unconnected, but it links to both statements.
- (b) Wrong: 1 and 2 are both wrong.
- (c) Wrong: neither 1 nor 2 holds.
- (d) Right: only 3 is a plausible relationship.
Only the provisional key (27 May 2026) was found; the final key replaces it when found.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.