Plant Growth and Development — Predicted 2026

AI-Predicted Question Angles for UPSC 2026

Based on trend analysis, current affairs, and recurring themes in Plant Growth and Development.

Interactions and Synergistic/Antagonistic Effects of PGRs

high

NEET questions are moving beyond simple recall of individual PGR functions to understanding how they interact. For example, the antagonistic relationship between Auxin and Cytokinin in apical dominance, or ABA and Gibberellins in seed dormancy, is a prime area. Questions might present a scenario where multiple hormones are involved and ask for the net effect or the underlying interaction. This requires a deeper conceptual understanding rather than just memorization of isolated facts.

Molecular Mechanisms of Photoperiodism and Phytochrome Action

medium

While basic photoperiodism (SDP, LDP, DNP) is a staple, questions might delve slightly deeper into the role of phytochrome (Pr and Pfr forms) and its interconversion, or the concept of 'florigen' as the flowering hormone. Understanding how light quality (red vs. far-red) affects flowering in different photoperiodic plants could be a more advanced question type. This tests the understanding of the underlying molecular switch rather than just the observable phenomenon.

Specific Agricultural/Horticultural Applications and their Scientific Basis

high

Application-based questions are always favored in NEET. Beyond common examples like 2,4-D as a herbicide or ethylene for fruit ripening, questions might focus on less common but significant applications. For instance, how gibberellins are used in the brewing industry (malting) or how cytokinins are crucial in tissue culture for shoot differentiation. These questions link theoretical knowledge to practical utility, requiring students to recall specific uses and the PGR responsible.