Which one of the following statements best reflects the most logical, rational and pragmatic message conveyed by the author of the passage?
Answer & explanation
Answer: (d) India needs to formulate effective climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies at the State/region level.
The passage shows how the impacts of warming and the chances to cut emissions differ from coastal States to dry districts to the Himalaya and peninsular wind sites, and says these differences must shape future goals. The practical message is region-specific planning, as in (d).
- ✗ (a) The passage stresses that each State's challenges differ, but it does not make climate action 'essentially the responsibility of each State'. Who is responsible is never discussed.
- ✗ (b) The author treats diversity as something to plan around, not as a reason no strategy can work. This reverses the passage's constructive tone.
- ✗ (c) The Union Government and net zero emissions are not mentioned; the passage's whole point is regional variation.
- ✓ (d) Sea-level rise for coastal States, variable monsoon for drier districts, wind power in peninsular and offshore areas — the author says 'these various aspects need to be considered' for clear goals. That is a case for State- or region-level mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Remember · A 'pragmatic' message proposes a workable approach drawn from the passage; reject options that shift responsibility, declare things impossible or add new actors.
Question and answer: UPSC's official GS Paper II (2025, Series A) — paper ↗ · answer key ↗. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 30 Sept 2026 (how we verify). ·