UPSC Prelims 2004 Q92: Science & Technology – Energy & Environment
Consider the following statements:
1. Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research uses fast reactor technology.
2. Atomic Minerals Directorate for Research and Exploration is engaged in heavy water
production.
3. Indian Rare Earths Limited is engaged in the manufacture of Zircon for India's nuclear
programme beside other rare earth products.
Which of these statements given above are correct?
- (a) 1, 2 and 3
- (b) 1 and 2
- (c) 1 and 3
- (d) 2 and 3
Answer: (c) 1 and 3
Explanation
Atomic energy institutions of India
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. IGCAR uses fast reactor technology | True — Kalpakkam, FBTR |
| 2. AMD is engaged in heavy water production | False: AMD does mineral exploration; heavy water is made by the Heavy Water Board |
| 3. IREL manufactures zircon for the nuclear programme | True — among rare earth products |
Statements 1 and 3 are correct.
Answer: (c) 1 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 2 is false.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 2 is false and statement 3 is true.
- (c) CORRECT. Statements 1 and 3 are correct.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 2 is false.
Key point
AMD: exploration of atomic minerals; Heavy Water Board: Mumbai; IREL: monazite and zircon.
Remember
AMD explores atomic minerals; it does not make heavy water.
Common mistakes
- Crediting AMD with heavy water production.
- Forgetting the FBTR at Kalpakkam.
- Mixing IREL with the Nuclear Fuel Complex.
Exam tip
DAE bodies: BARC, IGCAR, AMD, IREL, HWB, NFC, NPCIL.
Sources
- Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research — Fast Breeder Test Reactor, Kalpakkam
- Atomic Minerals Directorate for Exploration and Research (Department of Atomic Energy) — About AMD
- Heavy Water Board, Department of Atomic Energy — About the Board, Mumbai