UPSC CSE Prelims

Correct Option: C Explanation: Blue-finned mahseer is reported from the Cauvery basin and the rusty-spotted cat occurs in the Eastern Ghats. The Irrawaddy dolphin inhabits coastal/estuarine and some eastern river habitats, not the Chambal River. Statement / Pair Analysis: 1 (Correct): Blue-finned mahseer occurs in Western Ghats/Cauvery-associated waters. 2 (Incorrect): The Chambal is known for the Ganges river dolphin, not the Irrawaddy dolphin. 3 (Correct): The rusty-spotted cat’s Indian range includes the Eastern Ghats. Option-wise Analysis: A (Incorrect): It includes false item 2 (The Chambal is known for the Ganges river dolphin, not the Irrawaddy dolphin); omits true item 3 (The rusty-spotted cat’s Indian range includes the Eastern Ghats). B (Incorrect): It includes false item 2 (The Chambal is known for the Ganges river dolphin, not the Irrawaddy dolphin); omits true item 1 (Blue-finned mahseer occurs in Western Ghats/Cauvery-associated waters). C (Correct): Includes all and only the true statements/pairs. D (Incorrect): It includes false item 2 (The Chambal is known for the Ganges river dolphin, not the Irrawaddy dolphin). Review Note: Mahseer species distribution and introduced populations can differ by classification; the exam treats this Cauvery match as true.