UPSC Prelims 2020 CSAT Paper II · Q5 of 80 Comprehension medium

Passage

Passage—5 Although most of the Genetically Modified (GM) crops cultivated now are genetically engineered for a single trait, in future, crops genetically engineered for more than one trait will be the norm. Thus, biotechnology's role in agriculture and the regulation of the same cannot be understood solely in the context of the current generation of GM crops. Instead, there is a need to take a comprehensive look, taking into account various aspects, including socio-economic impacts, so that the potential of the technology can be harnessed while minimizing negative impacts. Given the importance of biotechnology in developing varieties that can help in climate change mitigation and adaptation, not using biotechnology as a part of the climate change action plan cannot be an option. Domestic regulation of biotechnology cannot be viewed in isolation of trade policy and obligations under various international treaties and conventions.

With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. Biotechnology regulation is an evolving process. 2. Participation of people is needed in policy decisions regarding biotechnology regulation. 3. Biotechnology regulation should take into account socio-economic aspects in decision-making. 4. Wider involvement of political executive in biotechnology regulation improves its effectiveness in dealing with the country's trade policies and international obligations. Which of the above assumptions are valid?

  1. (a) 1, 2 and 4 only
  2. (b) 1 and 3 only ✓ UPSC's answer
  3. (c) 2, 3 and 4 only
  4. (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Why the answer is (b)

• Assumption 1 is valid because the passage states that current GM crops have single traits, but future crops will have multiple traits, implying that regulation must evolve to accommodate these changes.

• Assumption 3 is valid because the passage explicitly mentions the need for a comprehensive look that includes 'socio-economic impacts' to harness potential while minimizing negative effects.

• Assumption 2 is invalid because the passage does not mention public participation or the role of people in policy decisions; it focuses on the scope of regulation and its link to trade and climate.

• Assumption 4 is invalid because the passage states that domestic regulation cannot be viewed in isolation from trade policy and international obligations, but it does not claim that political executive involvement improves effectiveness.

• Therefore, only assumptions 1 and 3 are supported by the text, making option (b) the correct answer.

Why the other options are wrong

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
Includes assumption 2 (public participation) and 4 (political executive effectiveness), which are not mentioned in the passage.
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
Includes assumption 2 (public participation) and 4 (political executive effectiveness), which are not mentioned in the passage.
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Includes assumptions 2 and 4, which are not supported by the passage, in addition to the valid assumptions 1 and 3.

Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2020, held on 4 October 2020. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.

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