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Topic Pesticides
Asked 4 times across 3 UPSC exams over 11 years (2014–2025), peaking in 2014.
Key insights
- Most tested in CDS — 2 of 4 PYQs
- First appeared in CDS 2014 — 5 years before CSE 2019 (allied exams preview CSE)
- Most asked in 2014
- Recurs across 3 years (2014–2025)
How it travelled across exams
First appearance in each exam — the same idea, reframed.
CDS 2014 → CSE 2019 → GEO 2025
How the concept evolved
Long-running — most appearances (2 of 4) predate 2016, and it still returns.
Related concepts
Ideas UPSC tests alongside this one — keep exploring.
Sample questions
You've seen the pattern — here are a few of the actual PYQs.
GEO2025
Which one of the following books expressed concern on the indiscriminate use of DDT and played major role in banning the use of DDT for agricultural use?
- A Walden
- B Half-Earth
- C Silent Spring ✓
- D The End of Nature
✓ Correct answer: (C)
Environment & Ecology › Pollution & Waste
CSE2019
In India, the use of carbofuran, methyl parathion, phorate and triazophos is viewed with apprehension. These chemicals are used as
- A pesticides in agriculture
- B preservatives in processed foods ✓
- C fruit-ripening agents
- D moisturising agents in cosmetics
✓ Correct answer: (B)
Agriculture › Soils & Inputs
CDS2014
Which one of the following types of pesticides is convenient to control stored grain pests?
- A Systemic pesticides
- B Fumigants ✓
- C Contact poisons
- D Stomach poisons
✓ Correct answer: (B)
Agriculture › Crops & Cropping Systems
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