With reference to a conservation organization called 'Wetlands International', which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. It is an intergovernmental organization formed by the countries which are signatories to Ramsar Convention. 2. It works at the field level to develop and mobilize knowledge, and use the practical experience to advocate for better policies. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Why the answer is (b)
• Wetlands International (1995, from earlier bodies dating to 1954) is an independent non-profit NGO headquartered in the Netherlands, not an intergovernmental body of Ramsar signatories — statement 1 is wrong.
• Statement 2 is correct: it works in the field to generate and share knowledge on wetlands and uses that experience to advocate better policies, and coordinates the Asian Waterbird Census.
• Hence 2 only, option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Statement 1 is wrong: it is an NGO, not intergovernmental.
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- Statement 1 is wrong.
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Statement 2 is correct: it does field-based knowledge and advocacy.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2014, held on 24 August 2014. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.