Which one of the following statements best reflects the most logical, rational and practical message conveyed by the passage?
Answer & explanation
Answer: (c) This finding can help in the development of organic, ecologically sustainable pesticides.
The passage shows that caterpillar frass switches off a plant’s defences, and says the find could throw light on compounds linked to how plants respond to pathogens. The practical message is that understanding these natural compounds can help develop organic, ecologically sound ways to protect crops.
- ✗ (a) The caterpillars feed on corn, a crop; nothing suggests using them against weeds.
- ✗ (b) The compounds concern how plants respond to pathogens; ‘clinically useful’ medicines for people go well beyond the passage.
- ✓ (c) Knowing the natural compounds that turn plant defences off (and on) can guide the development of organic, ecologically sustainable products to protect crops from pests and pathogens.
- ✗ (d) Genetic modification of caterpillars is not suggested anywhere.
Remember · Choose the application that stays within the passage’s field (plants, pests, crop protection); avoid jumps to medicine or genetic engineering.
Question and answer: UPSC's official GS Paper II (2024, Series A) — paper ↗ · answer key ↗. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 30 Sept 2026 (how we verify). ·