Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made: 1. Organic farming is inherently unsafe for both farmers and consumers. 2. Farmers and consumers need to be educated about eco-friendly food. Which of the assumptions given above is/are correct?

Passage

There is a claim that organic farming is inherently safer and healthier. The reality is that because the organic farming industry is still young and not well-regulated in India, farmers and consumers, alike, are not only confused about what products are best for them, but sometimes use products in ways that could harm them as well. For example, since organic fertilizers are difficult to obtain on a large scale in India, farmers often use farmyard manure, which may contain toxic chemicals and heavy metals. Certain plant sprays, such as Datura flower and leaf spray, have an element called atropine. If it is not applied in the right dose, it can act on the nervous system of the consumer. Unfortunately, how much and when to use it are not well-researched or regulated issues.

Question

CSATEasyPrelims 2023Comprehension

Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:

Organic farming is inherently unsafe for both farmers and consumers.
Farmers and consumers need to be educated about eco-friendly food.

Which of the assumptions given above is/are correct?

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: This statement is incorrect because of the use of the word “inherently". The passage states that “The reality is that because the organic farming industry is still young and not well-regulated in India, farmers and consumers, alike...in ways that could harm them as well." Therefore, we must infer that organic farming is not inherently unsafe for both farmers and consumers, but might be unsafe due to factors such as lack of regulation, “organic fertilizers are difficult to obtain on a large scale”, “If, not applied in the right dose” etc.

Statement 2 is correct: This assumption closely aligns with the content of the passage. The passage discusses the confusion among farmers and consumers due to the lack of regulation and research in the organic farming industry. This implies that there is a need for more education about what constitutes eco-friendly food and how it should be produced and consumed safely.