Q. Passage – 1
Maintaining an ecosystem just to conserve biodiversity will affect its commercial potential as well as the livelihoods dependent on the ecosystem. There is also a conflict between using an ecosystem only for livelihoods, for commercial exploitation, or strictly for conservation. Deforestation caused due to commercial exploitation will lead to indirect harm like floods, siltation problems and microclimatic instability, apart from adversely affecting livelihoods dependent on forests. These conflicts are particularly acute in developing countries where the dependence of people on the ecosystem is significant, and commercial exploitation has the potential to boost national income.
Q.1) Which one of the following statements best reflects the critical message conveyed by the author of the passage?
Exp) Option c is the correct answer
Option a is incorrect: The passage does not suggest that biodiversity conservation is unimportant. In fact, it stresses the conflict between conservation, livelihood, and commercial exploitation, without downplaying any one aspect. Saying it’s “not an issue to be worried about” misrepresents the author’s balanced concern for both biodiversity and livelihood. Hence option (a) is incorrect.
Option b is incorrect: While the passage does discuss how commercial exploitation harms the livelihoods of those dependent on forests, it does not frame the issue in terms of fundamental rights. The author avoids a rights-based discourse and focuses more on practical consequences like floods, siltation, instability, and the broader conflict of objectives. Hence option (b) is incorrect.
Option c is correct: It captures the central theme of the passage — the mutual exacerbation of ecosystem degradation and livelihood pressures, leading to conflicts and imbalance. The author emphasizes the trade-offs and tensions between conservation, commercial use, and dependence for livelihood, especially in developing countries. This option reflects that complexity well. Hence option (c) is correct.
Option d is incorrect: This is too extreme. The passage does not advocate for a total ban on commercial exploitation. Rather, it highlights the negative consequences and the need to manage trade-offs. Suggesting complete stoppage overstates the author’s position and misses the nuance. Hence option (d) is incorrect.
Therefore Option (c) is the correct answer.
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