Question 5 from UPSC CSE 2019 - Science & Technology

Question

Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
1. Genetic predisposition of some people
2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming
4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: B. 2 and 3 only

Strategy: Focus on the mechanisms causing multi-drug resistance. Statement 2 and 3 directly refer to established causes: incorrect antibiotic dosing promotes bacterial survival and selection of resistant strains, while antibiotic use in livestock fosters resistance that can transfer to humans. Statement 1 and 4, involving genetic predisposition or chronic diseases in people, do not cause microbial resistance, so those statements can be ruled out.

Key Info: Multi-drug resistance (MDR) in microbial pathogens refers to the ability of microbes—mainly bacteria—to survive exposure to multiple antimicrobial drugs. The primary causes of MDR are:

- Incorrect or incomplete use of antibiotics in humans, such as not finishing prescribed courses or self-medication with improper doses. This practice allows some bacteria to survive, adapt, and pass on resistance genes.
- Extensive use of antibiotics in livestock farming. Antibiotics are often used to prevent disease and promote growth in animals. This increases the selection of resistant bacteria in animals, which can then spread to humans via food, direct contact, or the environment.
- Genetic predisposition in humans and chronic diseases do not contribute directly to antimicrobial resistance in pathogens. Resistance is a feature acquired by the microbes, not the human host.

India has high overall antibiotic consumption and widespread over-the-counter availability, both of which contribute to resistance. Organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) prioritize rational antibiotic use in both human and veterinary medicine to combat this crisis. The National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR) in India focuses on stewardship, regulation, and monitoring to limit the spread of resistant strains.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 and 2

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: 1, 3, and 4

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: 2, 3, and 4