UPSC Prelims 2002 Q22: Indian Economy – International Trade & WTO
Consider the following statements:
1. The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) is a specialised agency of United Nations
System of Organisations
2. WIPO has its headquarters at Rome
3. The Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement is binding on all
WTO members
4. Least - developed country members of WTO are not required to apply the provisions of TRIPS
Agreements for a period of 20 years from the general date of application of the Agreement
Which of these statements are correct?
- (a) 1, 2, 3 and 4
- (b) 2, 3 and 4
- (c) 1, 2 and 4
- (d) 1 and 3
Answer: (d) 1 and 3
Explanation
WIPO and the TRIPS Agreement
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. WIPO is a specialised agency of the UN system | True (since 1974) |
| 2. WIPO has its headquarters at Rome | False — WIPO is at Geneva |
| 3. TRIPS is binding on all WTO members | True — part of the single undertaking |
| 4. LDCs exempt for 20 years from the general date of application | False — the original transition for LDCs was 10 years, later extended by the Council |
Statements 1 and 3 are true. Statement 2 is false because WIPO sits in Geneva, and statement 4 is false because the original LDC period was ten years. Hence 1 and 3.
Answer: (d) 1 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statements 2 and 4 are false.
- (b) Incorrect. It includes the false statements 2 and 4 and leaves out statement 1.
- (c) Incorrect. It includes the false statements 2 and 4.
- (d) CORRECT. Only 1 and 3 are true.
Key point
WIPO: UN specialised agency, Geneva; TRIPS: binding on all WTO members, 10-year LDC transition (later extended).
Remember
WIPO = Geneva; TRIPS binds all WTO members.
Common mistakes
- Placing WIPO in Rome, where FAO sits.
- Remembering the LDC period as 20 years.
- Doubting that TRIPS binds all members.
Exam tip
Two false statements (2 and 4) leave only option (d).
Sources
- WIPO — About WIPO
- WTO — TRIPS Agreement