UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Integrated Pest Management is a holistic approach that seeks to manage, not eradicate, pest populations. It prioritises preventive and non-chemical methods such as resistant varieties, crop rotation, natural enemies and mechanical controls. Chemical pesticides are used judiciously and as a last resort when economic thresholds are exceeded. The goal is to minimise environmental harm and farmer costs while maintaining acceptable crop yields, which is accurately captured in Option B.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because exclusive reliance on chemicals can lead to resistance, resurgence of pests and environmental contamination. IPM arose partly as a response to these problems.

Option B:
Option B is correct as it emphasises combining multiple methods and focusing on economic thresholds rather than zero pests. This integrated strategy is central to sustainable pest management.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect since abandoning all pest control would expose crops to severe damage and yield loss. IPM is about careful, not absent, management.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because genetically modified crops may be one tool among many but are not the sole basis of IPM. IPM predates GM technologies and remains broader than any single technique.