With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. Oil producing countries are one of the reasons for high food prices. 2. If there is a food crisis in the world in the near future, it will be in the emerging economies. Which of the above assumptions is/are valid ?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
["- Assumption 1 is invalid because the passage attributes high food prices to 'high fuel prices,' not specifically to 'oil producing countries'; the source of fuel is not identified as the cause.", "- Assumption 2 is invalid because the passage states that mass consumption in emerging economies is 'poised to create a food crisis,' implying they are a driver of the crisis, not that the crisis will be confined to or occur only within those economies.", '- The passage links demand from emerging economies to the potential for a global food crisis, not a crisis limited to their borders.', '- Since neither assumption is explicitly supported or logically necessary based on the text, both are invalid.', '- Therefore, the correct option is (d) Neither 1 nor 2.']
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Assumption 1 is invalid because the passage cites 'high fuel prices' as a factor, not 'oil producing countries' specifically.
- (b) 2 only
- Assumption 2 is invalid because the passage suggests emerging economies contribute to a global crisis, not that the crisis will be located only in those economies.
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- Both assumptions are invalid for the reasons stated in options (a) and (b).
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2021, held on 10 October 2021. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.