UPSC Prelims 2015— Question 19

Correct answer: Option C. The dugong is a herbivorous marine mammal that feeds mainly on seagrasses. In India it occurs mainly in coastal waters associated with the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Gulf of Kutch and the Andaman and Nicobar region rather than along the entire coastline. It receives the highest level of legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Thus statements 1 and 3 are correct. Option-wise analysis: Option A: “1 and 2” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option B: “2 only” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option C: “1 and 3” is correct. It directly matches the factual or conceptual requirement tested by the question and is supported by the principle explained above. Option D: “3 only” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Prelims takeaway: Focus on the precise institutional role, constitutional provision, geographical association, or technical definition being tested. UPSC questions often place a broadly familiar fact beside a narrowly incorrect qualifier; identifying that qualifier is essential for elimination.