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CSAT 2019 paper

UPSC CSE CSAT 2019 · Question 25 · Reading comprehension

The above passage implies that

Passage—3

The rural poor across the world, including India, have contributed little to human-induced climate change, yet they are on the frontline in coping with its effects. Farmers can no longer rely on historical averages for rainfall and temperature, and the more frequent and extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, can spell disaster. And there are new threats, such as sea level rise and the impact of melting glaciers on water supply. How significant are small farms? As many as two billion people worldwide depend on them for their food and livelihood. Small-holder farmers in India produce 41 percent of the country’s food grains, and other food items that contribute to local and national food security.

CSAT 2019 · Q25

Reading comprehension Medium

The above passage implies that

  1. 1.There is a potential problem of food insecurity in India.
  2. 2.India will have to strengthen its disaster management capabilities.

Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

Answer & explanation

Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2

Small-holders who grow 41 percent of India's food grains face erratic rain, droughts, floods and new threats, so food insecurity is a real possibility. And since extreme weather 'can spell disaster', India's capacity to handle such disasters must grow.

  • ✓ 1. The farmers behind 'local and national food security' are on the frontline of climate shocks — a potential, not a certain, problem.
  • ✓ 2. More frequent and extreme droughts and floods 'can spell disaster' for the farm sector; dealing with them calls for stronger disaster management.

Remember · 'Potential' and 'will have to' are moderate claims; accept them when the passage describes the risk that calls for them.

Question and answer: UPSC's official GS Paper II (2019, Series A) — paper ↗ · answer key ↗. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 30 Sept 2026 (how we verify). ·

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