UPSC Prelims 2009 Q89: Indian Economy – Infrastructure & Industry
Consider the following statements :
1. The first telegraph line in India was laid between Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) and Diamond
Harbour.
2. The first Export Processing Zone in India was set up in Kandla.
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: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation
Checking two "first in India" infrastructure claims
These statements examine two specific pioneering infrastructure milestones in Indian history.
| Statement | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1. First telegraph line laid between Kolkata and Diamond Harbour | Correct | India's first telegraph line was indeed laid between Calcutta and Diamond Harbour, in 1839 (experimental) under William O'Shaughnessy |
| 2. First Export Processing Zone set up in Kandla | Correct | Kandla, Gujarat, was indeed the site of India's first Export Processing Zone, established in 1965 |
Two pioneering Indian infrastructure facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| First telegraph line | Kolkata-Diamond Harbour |
| First EPZ | Kandla, Gujarat (1965) |
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 2 (Kandla EPZ) is also correct, so '1 only' is incomplete.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 (Kolkata-Diamond Harbour telegraph) is also correct, so '2 only' is incomplete.
- (c) CORRECT. Both the first telegraph line and the first Export Processing Zone facts are accurate.
- (d) Incorrect. Since both statements are accurate, 'neither' is wrong.
Key point
India's first telegraph line ran between Kolkata and Diamond Harbour, AND India's first Export Processing Zone was set up at Kandla, Gujarat — both pioneering infrastructure facts are accurate.
Remember
India's first telegraph line: Kolkata-Diamond Harbour. India's first Export Processing Zone: Kandla.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the first telegraph line's specific route with other early communication milestones.
- Not knowing Kandla's specific status as India's first EPZ.
- Mixing up different 'first in India' infrastructure claims across sectors.
Exam tip
First telegraph line = Kolkata-Diamond Harbour. First EPZ = Kandla, Gujarat. Two distinct 'first in India' infrastructure facts.
Sources
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — telegraph
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Kandla