With reference to the passage, the following assumptions have been made : I. Green energy production can be linked to/integrated with the climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. II. Effects of climate change are much more severe in coastal and mountainous regions. Which of the above assumptions is/are valid ?
- (a) I only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (b) II only
- (c) Both I and II
- (d) Neither I nor II
Why the answer is (a)
• The passage explicitly states that selected parts of peninsular India and offshore areas offer great opportunities for harnessing wind power, which is a form of green energy.
• It also notes that coastal states need to take action to protect shores from sea level rise, linking energy opportunities with adaptation strategies.
• Therefore, Assumption I is valid as the text connects green energy production (wind power) with climate change mitigation and adaptation goals.
• The passage states that each state faces a 'distinctive set of challenges' and that coastal, dry, and Himalayan regions have their own unique challenges.
• It does not compare the severity of these challenges, nor does it state that effects are 'much more severe' in coastal and mountainous regions compared to others.
• Thus, Assumption II is invalid because it introduces a comparative severity not supported by the text, making option (a) the correct answer.
Why the other options are wrong
- (b) II only
- Assumption II is invalid because the passage does not claim that climate change effects are more severe in coastal and mountainous regions, only that they face distinctive challenges.
- (c) Both I and II
- Assumption II is invalid as the text does not support the claim that effects are 'much more severe' in coastal and mountainous regions compared to other areas.
- (d) Neither I nor II
- Assumption I is valid because the passage links wind power opportunities in specific regions with the need for sustainable goals and adaptation actions.
Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025, held on 25 May 2025. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.