UPSC Prelims 2015— Question 63

Correct answer: Option C. The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee, now commonly referred to as the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee/GEAC, functions under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 framework and is responsible for appraisal and approval-related functions concerning certain genetically engineered organisms and products. It is therefore linked to environmental regulation rather than food standards, geographical indications or wildlife legislation. Option-wise analysis: Option A: “Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006” 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: “Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999” 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: “Environment (Protection) Act, 1986” is correct. It directly matches the factual or conceptual requirement tested by the question and is supported by the principle explained above. Option D: “Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972” 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.