UPSC Prelims 1999·GS1·science-and-technology·ipr and biotechnology

Neem tree has acquired industrial importance as a source of

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  1. Abiopesticide and anti-fertility compoundCorrect
  2. Banti-fertility compound, biofertilizer and anti-cancer drug
  3. Cbiofertilizer, biopesticide and anti- fertility compound
  4. Danti-cancer drug, biopesticide and biofertilizer

Explanation

The Neem tree is highly valued in industry primarily for three properties. First, it contains Azadirachtin, which makes it a powerful biopesticide used widely in organic farming to control pests without synthetic chemicals. Second, research has established that compounds in Neem oil and bark act as an effective anti fertility agent, with potential applications in natural contraceptives. Third, Neem cake, the residue left after oil extraction, is used as a biofertilizer and a soil conditioner. While Neem has some medicinal properties, it is not internationally recognized as a primary industrial source for anti cancer drugs in the same way it is for pesticides and fertility control. Therefore, Option A is the most accurate description of its core industrial utilities.
science-and-technology: Neem tree has acquired industrial importance as a source of

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