Consider the following diseases : 1. Diphtheria 2. Chickenpox 3. Smallpox Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India?
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) 1, 2 and 3
- (d) None
Why the answer is (b)
• Smallpox (3) has been eradicated: India's last case was in 1975, the country was certified smallpox-free in 1977, and global eradication was declared in 1980 — the first human disease ever eradicated.
• Diphtheria (1) and chickenpox (2) still occur in India; diphtheria is controlled by DPT vaccination but outbreaks continue, and chickenpox is common.
• Polio was later eliminated (2014 certification), but is not listed.
• Hence 3 only, option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- Diphtheria and chickenpox still occur in India.
- (c) 1, 2 and 3
- Only smallpox has been eradicated.
- (d) None
- Smallpox has been eradicated.
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.