UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statements B, C and D are correct because they acknowledge the contributions and vulnerabilities of informal waste workers and the importance of inclusive policies. Integrating them can raise recycling levels and improve livelihoods, they face significant health risks, and punitive approaches without alternatives can backfire. Statement A is incorrect since informal waste pickers do contribute substantially to resource recovery and recycling in many cities. Hence, the combination B, C and D only is the correct answer.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because it leaves out D, which is a valid statement on the negative consequences of criminalising informal waste activities. Omitting this dimension of policy impacts results in an incomplete picture of urban solid waste management.

Option B:
Option B is correct as it selects exactly the three true statements that align with field evidence and policy recommendations, while excluding A which denies the known role of informal recyclers. It recognises both the environmental and social justice aspects involved.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it includes statement A, which wrongly claims that informal pickers have no role in recycling. Including such a statement undermines the accuracy of the option even though B and C are correct.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect as it treats all four statements as correct, thereby accepting A. This contradicts numerous studies and practical observations about the contribution of the informal sector to recycling.

Many occupational health guidelines suggest that long-term exposure to sound levels of about 85 dB or higher can cause noise-induced hearing loss. Above this level, the sensitive hair cells in the inner ear can be damaged over time, so protective measures are required.

Option A:
Option A is correct because 85 dB is a widely used benchmark for continuous occupational noise that requires hearing protection and control measures.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect; 25 dB corresponds to very quiet environments and does not harm hearing.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because about 40 dB, typical of a quiet library, is generally safe and even desirable for concentration.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect; 10 dB is an extremely soft sound and poses no risk of hearing damage.

Statements A, B, D, E and F are correct: workers face exposures like dust/chemicals/noise; PPE reduces exposure; health surveillance aids early detection; informal workers often face higher risks; and training improves safety. Statement C is false because exposure limits and standards are central to prevention of occupational disease. Hence, the correct combination is A, B, D, E and F only.

Option A:
Option A is correct because it includes all true statements and excludes C, which wrongly dismisses exposure limits and safety standards.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it omits E and F, missing informal-sector vulnerability and the role of training.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it omits A, underrepresenting typical occupational exposures in key sectors.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it omits B, ignoring PPE as a major exposure-control measure.