UPSC Prelims 2017 CSAT Paper II · Q46 of 79 Comprehension medium

Passage

Passage—6 Climate change is likely to expose a large number of people to increasing environmental risks forcing them to migrate. The international community is yet to recognize this new category of migrants. There is no consensus on the definition and status of climate refugees owing to the distinct meaning the term refugees carry under international laws. There are still gaps in understanding how climate change will work as the root cause of migration. Even if there is recognition of climate refugees, who is going to provide protection? More emphasis has been given to international migration due to climate change. But there is a need to recognize the migration of such people within the countries also so that their problems can be addressed properly.

Which of the following is the most rational inference from the above passage?

  1. (a) The world will not be able to cope with large-scale migration of climate refugees.
  2. (b) We must find the ways and means to stop further climate change.
  3. (c) Climate change will be the most important reason for the migration of people in the future.
  4. (d) Relation between climate change and migration is not yet properly understood. ✓ UPSC's answer

Why the answer is (d)

• The passage explicitly states that 'There are still gaps in understanding how climate change will work as the root cause of migration.'

• It also notes that the international community has not reached a consensus on the definition and status of climate refugees.

• These points collectively indicate that the causal link and legal framework regarding climate-induced migration are not fully established or understood.

• Therefore, the most rational inference is that the relation between climate change and migration is not yet properly understood.

Why the other options are wrong

(a) The world will not be able to cope with large-scale migration of climate refugees.
The passage mentions that climate change will expose people to risks forcing migration, but it does not claim that the world will be unable to cope with this migration.
(b) We must find the ways and means to stop further climate change.
The passage focuses on the migration consequences and lack of recognition, not on the necessity to stop climate change itself.
(c) Climate change will be the most important reason for the migration of people in the…
The passage states climate change is 'likely to expose' people to risks, but it does not assert that it will be the 'most important' reason for future migration.

Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2017, held on 18 June 2017. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.

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