Q. Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: The Indian Flying Fox is placed under the “vermin” category in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
Statement-II: The Indian Flying Fox feeds on the blood of other animals.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
(c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
(d) Statement-I is incorrect, but Statement-II is correct
Correct answer: (c) Statement-I is correct, but Statement-II is incorrect
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation:
Statement-I: The Indian Flying Fox (Pteropus giganteus) is not placed under the “vermin” category in the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. Instead, it is listed under Schedule II of the Act, which provides protection but with lesser penalties compared to Schedule I species.
Statement-II: The Indian Flying Fox is a frugivorous species, meaning it feeds primarily on fruits, nectar, and flowers, not on the blood of other animals. Therefore, this statement is incorrect.