The GATE Grind

GATE 2019 CE (CE1) – Question 6

General Aptitude · Verbal Aptitude: Grammar and Vocabulary · 2 marks · Multiple choice

The new cotton technology, Bollgard-II, with herbicide tolerant traits has developed into a thriving business in India. However, the commercial use of this technology is not legal in India. Notwithstanding that, reports indicate that the herbicide tolerant Bt cotton had been purchased by farmers at an average of Rs 200 more than the control price of ordinary cotton, and planted in 15% of the cotton growing area in the 2017 Kharif season.

Which statement can be inferred from this passage?

  1. Farmers want to access the new technology if India benefits from it.
  2. Farmers want to access the new technology even if it is not legal.
  3. Farmers want to access the new technology for experimental purposes.
  4. Farmers want to access the new technology by paying high price.

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (B) Farmers want to access the new technology even if it is not legal.

Explanation

The passage explicitly combines illegal commercial use with substantial purchases and planting. It therefore supports willingness to access the technology even when it is not legal: **B**. It does not establish an experimental motive or a condition of national benefit.