UPSC Prelims 2021 question on Moringa and Tamarind

Statement by statement

Statement 1 – INCORRECT: Moringa has a straight trunk with cork-like bark. Depending on the species and climate, Moringa trees may be evergreen or semi-deciduous. Moringaceae is a member of the mustard-oil plants, the great group of families that includes the mustards, the capers, the papayas etc. It does not fix nitrogen. Hence, statement 1 is not correct (it is not leguminous).

Statement 2 – INCORRECT: Tamarind is native to tropical Africa. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible fruit, the sweet and sour pulp of which is extensively used in foods, beverages, and traditional medicines. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.

Statement 3 – CORRECT: Tamarind (with seeds) is classified as minor forest produce. It is also covered under Minimum Support Price Scheme for NTFP. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Statement 4 – CORRECT: India produces 1.2-2 million tonne moringa every year making it the largest producer of the crop in the world. The country is also the largest moringa exporter and meets 80 per cent of its world demand. Last year China procured huge quantity of moringa seeds from India at Rs 3,000 per kg while the usual cost is between Rs 800 and Rs 1,000 per kg. Hence statement 4 is correct.

Statement 5 – CORRECT: Tamarind seed is highly nutritious and contains upto 17-20 percent protein. Seeds of moringa and tamarind can be used in biofuel production. Hence statement 5 is correct.