In India, cluster bean (Guar) is traditionally used as a vegetable or animal feed, but recently the cultivation of this has assumed significance. in this context?
Smart Elimination
Clue in question: “Recently gained significance” → likely due to industrial / commercial use, not traditional uses like food or fodder.
Option-wise elimination:
• (a) Biodegradable plastic → no strong industrial base from Guar → eliminate.
• (c) Anti-histamines from leaves → niche/ pharmaceutical, not large-scale industrial → eliminate.
• (d) High-quality biodiesel → too extreme and very specific → eliminate.
• (b) Gum used in shale gas extraction → matches industrial/ commercial significance.
Answer Key & Explanation
Answer: BThe correct answer is Option B.
Explanation: Guar (Cluster Bean) became an important export commodity for India because Guar Gum (extracted from its seeds) is a crucial ingredient in the extraction of shale gas.
- It is used in the Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking) process to increase the viscosity of the fluid.
Value Addition
- Major Producer: India produces about 80% of the world's Guar.
- Region: Mainly grown in Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat.
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Foundational question based on core concepts.