UPSC Prelims PYQ 2003: Origin and hybrid development of cotton — Which...

Consider the following statements

1. India is the original home of the cotton plant.
2. India is the first country in the world to develop hybrid cotton variety leading to increased production.

Which of these statements is/are correct?

1. Only 1
2. Only 2
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

Both statements are correct

• Historical, archaeological, and botanical evidence corroborate ancient texts that trace the original home of the cotton plant to the Indian subcontinent. India is the only country that grows cotton as hybrids and the first to develop hybrid cotton back in 1970. Hybrids are made by crossing two parent strains having different genetic characters. These plants have more biomass than both parents, and capacity for greater yields.

Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2