In some places in the world, the productivity of staples such as rice and wheat has reached a plateau. Neither

Question

In some places in the world, the productivity of staples such as rice and wheat has reached a plateau. Neither new strains nor fancy agrochemicals are raising the yields. Nor is there much unfarmed land left that is suitable to be brought under the plough. If global temperature continues to rise, some places will become unsuitable for farming. Application of technology can help overcome these problems. Agricultural technology is changing fast. Much of this change is brought about by affluent farmers in the West/Americas. Techniques developed in the West are being adapted in some places to make tropical crops more productive. Technology is of little use if it is not adapted. In the developing world, that applies as much to existing farming techniques as it does to the latest advances in genetic modification. Extending to the smallholders and subsistence farmers of Africa and Asia the best of today's agricultural practices, in such simple matters as how much fertilizers to apply and when, would lead to a greatly increased availability of food for humanity. So would things like better roads and storage facilities, to allow for the carriage of surpluses to markets and reduce wastage.

Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:

1. Development of agricultural technology is confined to developed countries. 
2. Agricultural technology is not adapted in developing countries.

Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?

Accepted Answer

The passage states that "Much of this change [in agricultural technology] is brought about by affluent farmers in the West/Americas." The word "much" implies a significant portion, but not necessarily that *all* or *confined* development occurs there. It leaves open the possibility of technology development elsewhere. Thus, assumption 1 is not explicitly supported by the passage.

Regarding assumption 2, the passage explicitly states, "Techniques developed in the West are being adapted in some places to make tropical crops more productive." This directly contradicts the assumption that agricultural technology is *not* adapted in developing countries. While the passage also discusses the need for better adaptation, it clearly indicates that some adaptation is already occurring.

Therefore, neither assumption is valid based on the information provided in the passage.

Answer

1 only

Answer

2 only

Answer

Both 1 and 2

Answer

Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

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