What is/are unique about 'Kharai camel', a breed found in India? 1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater. 2. It survives by grazing on mangroves. 3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 2 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Why the answer is (a)
• The Kharai camel of Kachchh, Gujarat, is a unique breed that swims up to 3 km in the sea to reach mangrove islands (statement 1) and feeds on mangroves and saline vegetation (statement 2).
• Statement 3 is wrong: it is a domesticated breed reared by the Rabari and Jat pastoralists; it was recognised as a distinct breed by NBAGR in 2015.
• Mangrove loss to industry threatens it.
• Hence 1 and 2 only, option (a).
Why the other options are wrong
- (b) 3 only
- Statement 3 is wrong: Kharai camels are domesticated.
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- Statement 3 is wrong; statement 2 is correct.
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Statement 3 is wrong.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2016, held on 7 August 2016. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.