UPSC Prelims 2023— Question 69

This question tests Aerial Metagenomics under Genomics. The central point is Aerial metagenomics collects environmental DNA from air. Option A: Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go. This is the keyed answer because it matches the governing fact or concept: Aerial metagenomics collects environmental DNA from air. Option B: Understanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat. This distractor is not the keyed answer because it conflicts with the specific factual relationship, chronology, institutional role, geographic association or conceptual distinction tested in the question. Option C: Using air-borne devices to collect blood samples from moving animals. This distractor is not the keyed answer because it conflicts with the specific factual relationship, chronology, institutional role, geographic association or conceptual distinction tested in the question. Option D: Sending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies. This distractor is not the keyed answer because it conflicts with the specific factual relationship, chronology, institutional role, geographic association or conceptual distinction tested in the question. The question should be approached by checking each statement independently rather than accepting a familiar phrase at face value. This is particularly important in UPSC questions where a single incorrect institutional attribution, location, chronology, absolute word or causal link can invalidate an otherwise plausible option. The broader revision takeaway is to connect the keyed answer with the underlying concept rather than memorizing only the letter. The options also illustrate how UPSC constructs distractors by mixing correct facts with one altered detail. In revision, candidates should therefore retain both the positive fact and the nearest contrasting fact so that the same concept can be recognized when the framing changes in another year.