With reference to Neem tree, consider the following statements :
- 1. Neem oil can be used as a pesticide to control the proliferation of some species of insects and mites.
- 2. Neem seeds are used in the manufacture of biofuels and hospital detergents.
- 3. Neem oil has applications in pharmaceutical industry.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1 and 2 only
3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
Answer is Wrong!
Answer is Right!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2014
Statement 1 is correct: Neem oil contains compounds like azadirachtin which act as natural insecticides, repellent, and growth regulators for a wide range of insects and mites. It is widely used as a biopesticide.
Statement 2 is correct: Neem seeds contain oil that can be used for making soap (a component in detergents) and has potential as a non-edible oil source for biodiesel production (biofuels). While ‘hospital detergents’ is specific, the use in soap/detergents and potential for biofuels from seeds is established.
Statement 3 is correct: Neem and its derivatives have a long history of use in traditional medicine (Ayurveda, Unani). Modern research has explored its potential in pharmaceuticals for its antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and other properties.
– Neem oil is used in soap/detergent making and explored for biofuel production.
– Neem has medicinal properties and applications in the pharmaceutical industry.