Question

UPSC Prelims 2019 Question:

Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of

1. anti - malarial drug
2. biodiesel
3. pulp for paper industry
4. textile fibre

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4: textile fibre

Detailed Solution

Explanation:

The Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) plant has been traditionally used to make various fibre-based products such as sack, rope etc. It is found to be a source of sustainable textile fibres and has the property to protect the skin from harmful UV radiation.
Hence, Himalayan nettle is a perennial herb used by people of foothills of Himalaya to make fiber as well as in traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases.

Therefore, option (4) is the correct answer.

Subject: Environment | Sustainable Development

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