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Passage: Agriculture has been the backbone of human civilization for centuries, providing food, raw materials, and economic stability. Farmers around the world cultivate various crops, including wheat, rice, maize, and vegetables. One of the major challenges in farming is the constant threat posed by insects and pests. These tiny creatures, though small in size, can cause immense destruction to crops, leading to significant financial losses for farmers. Insects such as aphids, caterpillars, locusts, and beetles attack crops at different stages of growth, feeding on leaves, stems, roots, and even fruits. Some pests, like the fall armyworm, can destroy entire fields of maize within weeks, leaving farmers helpless. Others, such as the brown planthopper, damage rice crops by sucking the plant's sap and transmitting deadly plant diseases. The damage caused by these pests not only reduces crop yield but also affects the quality of the produce, making it unsuitable for consumption or sale. If left unchecked, this infestation can lead to a significant decline in agricultural production, further impacting food supply chains and market stability. To combat this growing problem, various pest control methods have been used, including chemical pesticides. While pesticides are effective, excessive use can lead to environmental pollution, soil degradation, and harm to beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. In recent years, a more sustainable approach has gained attention: biological pest control. One such method involves introducing natural predators to control pest populations. One of the most successful examples of biological pest control is the introduction of a species of wasp from Asia to combat destructive agricultural pests. These wasps are parasitic in nature, laying their eggs inside harmful insects such as caterpillars and aphids. When the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the pests from the inside, ultimately killing them. This natural method has proven highly effective in reducing pest populations without harming the environment. For farmers, this solution has been a game-changer, reducing losses and protecting crops in an eco-friendly way. While challenges remain in large-scale implementation, integrating such natural methods with modern farming practices can ensure sustainable agriculture and food security for the future. What is the main drawback of using chemical pesticides for pest control?

1. They fail to control pests effectively and lead to economic losses for farmers.
2. They lead to excessive crop growth, making harvesting difficult for farmers.
3. They make crops inedible and unfit for human consumption due to toxicity.
4. They harm the environment, degrade soil quality, and affect beneficial insects.

Correct answer: They harm the environment, degrade soil quality, and affect beneficial insects.

Solution

The passage clearly states that excessive use of chemical pesticides can cause environmental pollution, soil degradation, and harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. That is the main drawback mentioned.

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