RAS question
Which institution manages sand dune stabilization research in Rajasthan?
Correct answer: (C) CAZRI (Central Arid Zone Research Institute), Jodhpur.
Sand dune stabilisation research in Rajasthan is managed by CAZRI, the Central Arid Zone Research Institute at Jodhpur.
Explanation
CAZRI manages sand dune stabilisation research in Rajasthan because the ICAR-CAZRI page identifies the Central Arid Zone Research Institute as headquartered in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and describes it as India's apex organisation for arid-zone research and development. CAZRI has worked since 1959 on sand dune stabilisation, arid-zone agriculture and water management. CAZRI's landmark sand dune stabilisation and shelterbelt plantation programmes control soil erosion, desertification and protect agricultural landscapes. Sand dune stabilisation in Rajasthan is not handled by a broad ministry, a space agency or a weather office; it belongs to the specialist arid-zone research institute located in Rajasthan.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) ISRO is a space organisation, whereas sand dune stabilisation in Rajasthan is arid-zone field research.
- (B) ICAR is the parent body under which CAZRI functions, but the sand dune stabilisation research role belongs to CAZRI, Jodhpur.
- (D) IMD deals with weather, while CAZRI handles arid-zone research, soil erosion control and desertification management.
Concept
RAS tests Rajasthan's desert geography and the institutions linked with arid-zone management. Sand dunes, desertification and dryland development are central to Rajasthan-specific geography.