Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Passage: In an unexpected but significant move aimed at protecting its agricultural economy, the Kenyan government has off…

Question

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Passage: In an unexpected but significant move aimed at protecting its agricultural economy, the Kenyan government has officially launched an extensive campaign against the Rose-ringed Parakeet, a bird species that originally belongs to the Indian subcontinent. Although the bird is admired for its striking green plumage, intelligence, and remarkable ability to adapt to different environments, it has increasingly become one of the most troublesome invasive species in Kenya. Over the past several years, mounting scientific evidence and numerous reports from farmers have highlighted the severe ecological and economic damage caused by its rapidly growing population. As a result, the government concluded that stronger and more decisive intervention was necessary to safeguard agricultural production. The Rose-ringed Parakeet has caused extensive destruction across several farming regions by feeding on standing crops and fruit-bearing trees. Farmers cultivating maize, fruits, and other agricultural produce have suffered considerable losses due to the birds' voracious feeding habits and their ability to reproduce quickly. Their expanding population has not only reduced crop yields but has also made conventional pest-control measures increasingly ineffective. In addition to direct agricultural losses, the persistent infestation has forced farmers to spend significantly more on protective measures, surveillance, and pest-management techniques, thereby increasing the overall cost of cultivation and placing considerable financial pressure on the agricultural community. Before resorting to stronger action, authorities experimented with a variety of population-control measures, including trapping the birds and relocating them to other areas. However, these efforts produced only temporary relief and failed to reduce the overall population in a sustainable manner. The birds continued to spread rapidly because of their adaptability, breeding capacity, and ability to thrive in both rural and urban environments. Consequently, the problem escalated despite repeated management attempts, prompting policymakers to reconsider their strategy. In response, the Kenyan government has introduced a comprehensive action plan that combines immediate intervention with long-term preventive measures. The strategy includes a nationwide culling programme in heavily affected regions, public awareness campaigns designed to educate communities about the threat posed by the invasive species, and close collaboration with agricultural scientists and environmental experts to develop sustainable methods of preventing future infestations. Officials believe that combining scientific research, community participation, and coordinated policy implementation will not only reduce the current population of the birds but also help minimise future risks. The government has emphasised that protecting agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and reducing the economic burden on farmers remain the primary objectives of this multi-pronged initiative. Q26. What is the objective of the government's public awareness campaigns?

PYQPulse · Accepted Answer

C. To encourage the import of more exotic bird species.

Answer: C. C. To encourage the import of more exotic bird species.

Answer: C. C. To encourage the import of more exotic bird species.