UPSC Prelims 2020— Question 52

This question tests major minerals in india. The key concept is: Chromite, kyanite and sillimanite are classified as major minerals under the relevant Indian mineral framework, while bentonite is generally treated differently. The question therefore selects 2, 3 and 4. The verified answer for the uploaded Set-B paper is option D. Option A — 1 and 2 only: This is not the correct option. The option does not match the verified combination or conclusion. The decisive point is the distinction explained above: Chromite, kyanite and sillimanite are classified as major minerals under the relevant Indian mineral framework, while bentonite is generally treated differently. The question therefore selects 2, 3 and 4. Therefore this alternative should be eliminated even if part of its wording appears plausible in isolation. Option B — 4 only: This is not the correct option. The option does not match the verified combination or conclusion. The decisive point is the distinction explained above: Chromite, kyanite and sillimanite are classified as major minerals under the relevant Indian mineral framework, while bentonite is generally treated differently. The question therefore selects 2, 3 and 4. Therefore this alternative should be eliminated even if part of its wording appears plausible in isolation. Option C — 1 and 3 only: This is not the correct option. The option does not match the verified combination or conclusion. The decisive point is the distinction explained above: Chromite, kyanite and sillimanite are classified as major minerals under the relevant Indian mineral framework, while bentonite is generally treated differently. The question therefore selects 2, 3 and 4. Therefore this alternative should be eliminated even if part of its wording appears plausible in isolation. Option D — 2, 3 and 4 only: This is the correct option. It matches the verified conclusion because Chromite, kyanite and sillimanite are classified as major minerals under the relevant Indian mineral framework, while bentonite is generally treated differently. The question therefore selects 2, 3 and 4. The wording of the option is consistent with the governing concept tested by the question. For UPSC-style elimination, first identify the exact proposition being tested, then evaluate each statement independently before comparing the answer codes. Avoid treating a broad or absolute statement as correct merely because its general theme is familiar. The precise qualifiers in the question—such as 'all', 'only', 'cannot', 'largest', 'always' or a specific institutional role—often determine the answer. On that basis, option D is the verified answer.