Assertion-Reasoning PYQ on DNA Fingerprinting — UPSC Prelims PYQ 2000

Assertion-Reasoning PYQ on DNA Fingerprinting

Assertion (A): “DNA Fingerprinting” has become a powerful tool to establish paternity and identity of criminals in rape and assault cases.

Reason (R): Trace evidence such as hairs, saliva, and dried semen are adequate for DNA analysis.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
2. Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explanation of A.
3. A is true, but R is false.
4. A is false, but R is true.

Explanation

• DNA fingerprinting is a powerful forensic technique used to establish an individual’s identity and determine biological relationships such as paternity. It is widely used in criminal investigations, especially in rape and assault cases, as DNA can be extracted from trace biological samples.
• Evidence such as hair (with roots), saliva, blood, and dried semen contains genetic material sufficient for DNA profiling. Thus, the availability of DNA from such trace evidence explains why DNA fingerprinting is highly effective in establishing paternity and identifying criminals.
• Therefore, both the Assertion and the Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.