Question

Given below are two statements:
Statement (I): The NBPGR collaborates with several international organizations to conserve and utilize plant genetic resources.
Statement (II): The NBPGR is the only organization in India involved in the conservation of plant genetic resources.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

• A. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are true.
• B. Both Statement (I) and Statement (II) are false.
• C. Statement (I) is true but Statement (II) is false.
• D. Statement (I) is false but Statement (II) is true.

Hint:

NBPGR acts as the primary coordinator for PGR in India, but it operates as part of a larger network of SAUs, ICAR institutes, and NGOs.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) is the nodal organization in India responsible for the acquisition, management, and conservation of plant genetic resources (PGR) for food and agriculture.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate both statements:
- Statement (I) is true: The NBPGR actively collaborates with international agencies (such as the FAO, Bioversity International, and various CGIAR centers like IRRI and CIMMYT) to exchange germplasm, develop conservation standards, and utilize global plant genetic resources.
- Statement (II) is false: While NBPGR is the primary and nodal agency, it is not the *only* organization involved in conserving plant genetic resources in India.
Many other institutions are actively involved in these conservation efforts, including:
1. Crop-specific ICAR institutes (such as the Indian Institute of Rice Research or Central Potato Research Institute).
2. State Agricultural Universities (SAUs).
3. The Botanical Survey of India (BSI).
4. Various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community seed banks.
Therefore, Statement (I) is true, but Statement (II) is false.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, the correct option is (C).