SBI Clerk Prelims 22 Feb 2025 Shift 1 Paper

Bees play a critical role in our ecosystem, not just through the production of honey, but also in food production due to their pollination activities. Pollination is the process by which pollen is transferred from the male part of a flower to the female part, enabling fertilization (A) _______ the production of seeds. Bees are one of the primary (B) _______ that accomplish this task. In fact, it’s estimated that about one-third of the food we consume daily relies on pollination, primarily by bees. Without bees, many of the crops that constitute our diet would be significantly (C) _______. This includes fruits like apples, vegetables like cucumbers, and even nuts. These insects are also vital for plants that provide the seeds for certain animal feeds. As a result, the (D) _______ of bees would not only impact human food supplies but also animal husbandry. Unfortunately, bee populations have been in decline due to factors like pesticide exposure, habitat loss, and climate change. Protecting bees is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and ensuring food security. Various (E) _______ are in place to protect and encourage the health of bee colonies, including the planting of wildflowers and the reduction of pesticide use. The role bees play (F) _______ enriching our diet and supporting agriculture cannot be overstated.