UPSC Prelims 2015— Question 69

Correct answer: Option A. Living root bridges are a distinctive traditional ecological engineering practice of Meghalaya. Communities train the aerial roots of living rubber fig trees across streams and allow them to grow and interweave over time. The resulting structures strengthen as the trees mature and can remain functional for generations. Option-wise analysis: Option A: “Meghalaya” is correct. It directly matches the factual or conceptual requirement tested by the question and is supported by the principle explained above. Option B: “Himachal Pradesh” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option C: “Jharkhand” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option D: “Tamil Nadu” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Prelims takeaway: Focus on the precise institutional role, constitutional provision, geographical association, or technical definition being tested. UPSC questions often place a broadly familiar fact beside a narrowly incorrect qualifier; identifying that qualifier is essential for elimination.