UPSC CSE Prelims 2014
Correct Option (c):
Statement 1 is correct. Neem oil contains azadirachtin, a natural compound that acts as an antifeedant, insect growth regulator, and repellent. It is widely utilized as a biopesticide to control various species of insects and mites, thereby preventing their proliferation in agricultural and horticultural settings.
Statement 3 is correct. Neem oil exhibits diverse medicinal properties, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties render it valuable in the pharmaceutical industry for the development of various formulations, such as those for dermatological conditions, oral care, and other therapeutic applications.
Incorrect Options:
Statement 2 is incorrect. While neem seeds yield oil with various industrial applications, including cosmetics and lubricants, their significant use in the large-scale manufacture of biofuels and hospital detergents is not widely established or commercially prevalent. Biofuel production typically relies on other oilseed crops, and hospital detergents primarily utilize synthetic chemical compounds.
Option (a) 1 and 2 only: This option is incorrect because Statement 2 is not accurate regarding the primary uses of neem seeds in biofuel and hospital detergent production.
Option (b) 3 only: This option is incorrect as it excludes Statement 1, which correctly identifies the well-established pesticidal application of neem oil.
Option (d) 1, 2 and 3: This option is incorrect because Statement 2 is not factually supported by widespread industrial practice.