UPSC Prelims 2005 Q29: Indian Economy – Agriculture & Rural Development
Consider the following statements :
1. India is the only country in the world producing all the five known commercial varieties of silk.
2. India is the largest producer of sugar in the world.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a) 1 only
Explanation
Silk and sugar production
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. Only country producing all five commercial varieties of silk | True — mulberry, tasar, oak tasar, eri and muga (muga only in India) |
| 2. Largest sugar producer in the world | False: Brazil was the largest producer; India was second |
Only statement 1 is correct. India produces all five silks; the largest sugar producer was Brazil.
Answer: (a) 1 only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Statement 1 is correct, statement 2 is not.
- (b) Incorrect. Brazil, not India, was the leading sugar producer.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 2 is false.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 1 is true.
Key point
India's silks: mulberry, tasar (tropical), oak tasar, eri, muga (golden silk of Assam).
Remember
India alone produces all five commercial silks.
Common mistakes
- Assuming India leads in sugar because it leads in sugarcane area.
- Forgetting that muga silk is exclusive to Assam.
- Confusing silk production with silk consumption.
Exam tip
Sugar: Brazil first, India second (and the largest consumer).
Sources
- Central Silk Board — varieties of silk
- Ministry of Textiles, Government of India — Annual Report 2004–05 (Sericulture)