3 - Vijeta Final (15 June 2022)

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Preface
Dear students,
English Language plays a very significant role in banking and other
competitive exams. This section is also a major deciding factor in your
success in every leg of your examination. The English section can be
tremendously scoring if one handles this section with all his dedication,
attention and care.
One of the key factors in attaining success in any field is the age old
concept of “practice makes a man perfect.” Although some people might
have an innate knack for a particular subject or skill, the truth is mastery
takes time, repetition and pushing oneself out of his/her comfort zone –
there is no shortcut!
Now, in the case of major banking and insurance exams, adequate and
appropriate practice materials aren't easily available. The contents you'll
rely on for the sake of practising must be exam-specific and relevant. So,
I've come up with ''Vijeta''(that translates to 'success finder') - a free-to-all
biweekly magazine for the English language that targets all the major
banking and insurance exams throughout the country.
Every question in this magazine has been framed with utmost care and
attention keeping in mind that millions of you will be highly benefitted.
All the different patterns of questions from this section that appear in the
exams have been furnished in a very organized manner.
You'll only need to carry on practising consistently, as steady and

consistent practice yields steady and consistent results.
Your invaluable suggestions are heartily welcome, as we believe in

relentless improvement.

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ABOUT NIMISHA BANSAL
Nimisha Bansal is one of India's most eminent educators of English

language for Banking, Insurance and other government
examinations with over 300k followers on Unacademy. Her motto is to
make English an easy and accessible language for everyone. She also
has a very popular YouTube channel named 'Nimisha Bansal' with a
subscription base of more than half-a-million.
She is not only a highly-competent pedagog, but also a wonderful

motivator. She always promotes enthusiasm for giving your best.
She is also a prominent author of some very successful books for
the English language for various competitive exams. Some of her
top-selling books are Vocab Prodigy, 120 Rules of Grammar,
Descriptive Book and Perfection Book.
These books have been highly praised and are immensely beneficial
for the aspirants.
Thousands of students from her batches like Perfection Batch,
Achievers' series and Editorial Analysis have been selected in
various exams like SBI PO and Clerk, IBPS/RRB PO and Clerk and
RBI Assistant.
Nimisha Bansal also carries out many free classes on a regular
basis.
She has dedicated her life to the field of education and has coached lakhs
of students countrywide. She takes free classes regularly on both
Unacademy and her YouTube channel and has garnered millions of
views on her videos. With a willing heart to provide the best education to
her students, Nimisha Bansal has proudly helped thousands of students
achieve their dream jobs every year. Many of her students are currently
working in various public sector banks and government organizations.

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She believes education should not be limited to the youth but to anyone
who shares the love of learning.
A Note to my champions
Dear students,
Getting a government job isn't a child's play nowadays. One must go

through a stiff competitive situation, recurrent stresses and lack of
confidence on several occasions. It's not at all 'a bed of roses'.
But success is no accident. It is consistent hard work, perseverance,
learning, studying and sacrifice.
So, how can goals be accomplished?

What are the main qualities you need to inculcate to be successful?
First, you need to keep in mind that there are four most important
mantras for success.
Patience, Perseverance, Practice and Planning.
It is important to be patient and keep going to reach your goals. Once we
learn the importance of patience, we can stop worrying when things take
longer than we would like.
Progress occurs by trying, understanding what works and what does not
work, course-correcting, and trying again.
Success comes to those who continue to make efforts to achieve
something in their lives, which is what perseverance is all about.
Planning can be defined as “thinking in advance what is to be done,
when it is to be done, how it is to be done and by whom it should be
done”. In simple words we can say, planning bridges the gap between
where we are standing today and where we want to reach.

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Second, target every exam as it's the easiest exam. It's not your
overconfidence. It's your self-assurance or confidence. Confidence is
believing in yourself, feeling comfortable in your true self, knowing you
have everything required to succeed.
By this positive mindset, you'll not be overwhelmed by the fear of losing.
Third, enjoy the journey. It's a healthy way to maintain balance between
doing and being, between producing results and going through the
required processes. Don't become too burdened with all your anxieties,
doubts and uncertainties.
There will be stress, doubts, fears but you will have to constantly remind
yourself that you can do it and you will do it.
Fourth, it is so important to realize the magnitude of introspection.
The ability to examine, explore and get intimate with your inner conscious
and feelings allows you to take responsibility for your growth.
By looking into and reviewing your own thoughts and the actions attached
to them, you get to know yourself - your strengths, your weaknesses.
Once you have understood these aspects, you can start working on them.
We are wired to move toward things that make us feel good and away
from things that make us feel uncomfortable. Our brains tag effort as bad
because it’s hard work.
But hard actions can have tremendous benefits — ones that may not be
visible for some time.
We can accomplish hard things by practicing the habits of a growth
mindset.
Challenges and problems are important parts of life that give you
experiences; make you learn and help you become stronger. Problems
make us grow and shape us. The biggest problem people have is that
they hope for a life without problems.

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Therefore, preparing yourself for the hardest challenges will certainly help
you achieve success more efficiently.
Finally, the temptation to give up is a common one, and nobody is

exempt. Failure isn't something many of us can handle gracefully. And
even though we know it's a common human condition, we're somehow
always surprised when it happens to us.
But, when you want to give up, remind yourself that loss of hope is
temporary. It might just compel you to pick yourself up and move forward.
Use failures as your motivations. Failure isn’t the end of a journey, instead
it is just an experience you have while on your way to success.
Wishing you the best for every step in your journey. Go and conquer your
dreams.
I am always there for you, and I know that my champions can never give
up
With love and lots of blessings

Nimisha Bansal

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TOPPER’S TALK
Ishika Saini (SBI PO 2021-2022)
1. Congratulations on your success. I'm very happy for you and I’m
proud of you. What was the reaction of your parents and you when
you saw the result?
ISHIKA SAINI : Thank You so much mam! It was really unexpected,

there were tears of happiness in my eyes. When I saw the result I couldn't
believe it was real. The feeling cannot be expressed. My parents are
really proud of me. I cleared it in the 1st attempt. I had been preparing
since October, 2020 but I joined your perfection batch in May.
2. Tell me more about your goals, strategies and how did you
prepare?
ISHIKA SAINI : I mainly focused on the things I had command on like

English then I tried to clear my mathematics concepts and reasoning.
The biggest factor that helped me were the mocks tests, I improved my
speed of solving questions by giving mock tests.
3. How important and instrumental have Nimisha ma'am's various

batches been in your preparation for the banking exams? How will
you consider her guidance and contributions?

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A: I've been to many English classes on many platforms so far. But the
kind of ambience she creates in her classes has been unmatchable. Her
flagship batch - Perfection Batch has been enormously helpful for me and
thousands like me, who always used to think that English is the hardest
section. When I started attending her classes, I realized that solving only
the easy and simple questions would not yield any positive result. The
level of her questions in the Perfection Batch is so advanced that I
experienced a different dimension of learning. I acquired a great deal of
knowledge. My reading skill was improved to a great extent.
I'm also a regular attendee of her other free classes and editorial analysis
classes. These also have big contributions to my preparation.
Apart from her wonderful teaching ability, her warm gestures and constant
motivation are the things, I'm forever indebted to.
4. Many students ask me about their doubts about the examinations,
like is reading enough for English?
ISHIKA SAINI : I don't think only reading can improve the language, you
have to solve questions to improve the same. Reading editorials does
help but only reading them isn't enough. I really enjoyed attending the
perfection batch and it helped me a lot and improved my weak links.
5. How was your interview? Were you nervous enough to face the
interviewers?
ISHIKA SAINI : I was nervous till I was outside the door waiting for my
turn. As soon as I got inside, I thought the interviewers were also human.
They won’t do anything if I answer wrong, so my nervousness flew away.
My interview was mostly situation based; it wasn't very much about
banking. I remember they asked me about the difference between SBI
and PNB. In which bank do you have your account? Most questions were
from my introduction and hobbies.
6. How did you manage your time? What was your timetable?

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ISHIKA SAINI : My target was to study 7 - 8 hours a day. I used to give

most of my time to English, like 4 -5 hours, as I knew that English was the
most scoring subject. When my reasoning and mathematics concepts got
clear, I was totally dependent upon mock tests. I did not take any extra
classes , I learned the concepts and practised them. My general
awareness was very weak. I used to study it on youtube. I believe that
English is a game changing subject because my marks increased
because of it and descriptive writing.
7. What would you like to say to fellow aspirants?
ISHIKA SAINI : My aim was to clear this exam. So I completed my

graduation and got dedicated to preparing for the exam. Just make a
mindset that this is the easiest exam and I can do it. Just train your mind
and when you will be in the exam hall solving the paper you will feel the
energy. Just stay positive. Don't ever lose hope and work whole-heartedly
towards your goals.

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INDEX
S.No. Chapter Name Page no

1 READING COMPREHENSION 14- 68
2 COLUMN BASED QUESTIONS 69- 103
3 CLOZE TEST 104- 142
4 PARAJUMBLE 142- 175
5 WORD SWAP 175- 185
6 SITUATIONS PARAGRAPH 186- 213
7 MISCELLANEOUS PATTERN 214- 314

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CHAPTER-1
READING COMPREHENSION
Direction(1-7): Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
Technology exists to expand and sustain our capabilities. Therefore, doing technology well
contributes to our hopes for leading an ethically good life:
_____________________________________. Videoconferencing could make a significant
contribution to this. However, the essential capability I’m concerned about is not videoconferencing
in itself, but rather the (m)adaptability of technologies for everyone’s benefit. This is, I argue, one of
the most pressing issues we have to deal with, as technology becomes ever more entangled in our
lives. But to do so successfully, we need to think more deeply and creatively, using techniques from
the interdisciplinary field we call design research – applying a blend of psychology, philosophy,
anthropology, engineering and aesthetics.
I will explore how the experience of videoconferencing points, in one way, towards the limits of
human (n)formation and, in the other, to a liberating human capability that we must collectively
cultivate and sustain. As the designer Jon Kolko says in Well-Designed (2014), we should adopt an
‘optimistic stance’ and ‘seek to explore the situation space, to see multiple potentials for
improvement, and to always consider what might be’ through systematic empathy and ‘integrative
thinking’.
How important is this? The impact of bad design is massive – multiplied across the billions of people
striving to flourish online, not only when we need the technology as a stop-gap (o)humanisation to
alleviate disruptions to everyday life, but also when we want to use it for more socially progressive
purposes. Videoconferencing, and the telepresence experience it can enable, promises to facilitate
the (p)measure of communities and partnerships that escape the boundaries of time and distance. It
can even help us overcome social and economic barriers.
1. Four words in bold may be placed incorrectly. Choose the contextually right order of the
words. If no replacement is required, choose E as your answer.
A. o m p n
B. n m o p
C. p n o m
D. m o n p
E. No replacement required
2. Which of the following phrases can most appropriately fit in the blank in the first
paragraph, contextually?
a. developing the right capabilities in the right ways and using them for good ends.
b. making us act in manipulative ways.
c. encouraging us to lead a frugal and self-sufficient life.

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A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
3. In the above context, the author is concerned about a certain aspect of technology. Which
of the following probable solutions could satisfy the author?
a. Adapting technology to human nature or use.

b. Human societies and cultures and their development are studied enough.
c. Making more affordable and economical technologies rather than expensive ones.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
4. Which of the following statements best summarise(s) what Jon Kolko says in Well-
Designed(2014)?
a. Positive attitude, the ability to feel for others and think as a whole should be embraced while
exploring various possibilities for betterment.
b. Positive and hopeful attitude and the ability to understand the feelings of others will lead to
collective decision making.
c. Exploring various possibilities for advancement wouldn't be possible if we don't remain
hopeful and empathetic.
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Only c E. All a, b and c
5. Why is it so important to have a good design when it comes to using a technology like
video conferencing?
a. Because, it's important to make our regular lives hassle-free with the help of technology.
b. Because, it's important to use technology for the welfare of the society.
c. Because, there are countless number of people who rely on technology like online platforms
to prosper.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Only c E. All a, b and c
6. Which of the following statements the author will most likely agree with, according to the
above passage?
a. How do we improve things? How do we re-humanise videoconferencing and other essential

technologies? The answer is to add more features.
b. We can even get meaning from being entangled in things that are inefficient and don’t quite
do what we expect.
c. We need theories about being human and, more precisely, being human with technology –
theories that can guide us in designing better technologies and their use.

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7. How would you describe the 'Video conferencing' as expressed in the last paragraph?
a. extortionate
b. equalizing
c. unifying
Touch is the first sense by which we encounter the world, and the final one to leave us as we
approach death’s edge. ‘Touch comes before sight, before speech,’ writes Margaret Atwood in her
novel The Blind Assassin (2000). ‘It is the first language and the last, and it always tells the truth.’
Our biology bears this out. Human foetuses are covered in fine hairs known as lanugo, which appear
around 16 weeks of pregnancy. Some researchers believe that these delicate filaments enhance the
pleasant sensations of our mother’s amniotic fluid gently washing over our skin, (I) that a child, once
born, will derive from being hugged.
Touch has always been my favourite sense – a loyal friend, something I can rely on to lift me up
when I’m feeling down, or spread joy when I’m on a high. Lately, though, touch has been going
through a ‘prohibition era’: it’s been a rough time for this most important of the senses. The 2020
pandemic served to make touch the ultimate taboo, next to coughing and sneezing in public. While
people suffering from COVID-19 can lose the sense of smell and taste, touch being a proven vector,
is the sense that has been diminished for almost all of us, test-positive or not, symptomatic or not,
hospitalised or not. _______________________________________
But if physical distance is what protects us, it’s also what stands in (II). Looking after another human
being almost inevitably involves touching them – from the very basic needs of bathing, dressing,
lifting, assisting and medical treatment (usually referred to as instrumental touch), to (III) that aim to
communicate, provide comfort and offer support (defined as expressive touch).
8. In the Question below three phrases are given which must be filled in the positions given in
I, II and III in the passage. From the options given below, choose the correct order of phrases
that should be filled in the positions given.
A. the way of care and nurturance

B. a precursor to the warm and calming feeling
C. the more effective tactile exchanges
A. CAB B. BCA C. ACB D. BAC E. CBA

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9. Which of the following statements can most appropriately fit in the blank in the second
paragraph of the above passage?
The sentence must be in line with its previous statement.
a. Touch is the sense that has paid the highest price.

b. There is no care, there is no cure, without touch.
c. But, paradoxically, touch is also a part of the cure.
10. Which of the following statements can be deducted from the above passage?
a. A child has his/her firsthand experience of being held tightly and fondly in someone's arms in
the mother's womb.
b. The author considers human touch to be a cure for all maladies.
c. If someone has to be cared for, he/she has to be made physical contact with, mostly.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Only b E. All a, b and c
11. How has the author established his strong support for 'touch', throughout the passage?
a. By saying that touch despite being prohibited in times of the pandemic, hasn't lost its
significance in healing.
b. By asserting that taking care of a person is incomplete without touching them.
c. By explaining the biological process involved in developing the touch sensation in a baby.
12. Which of the following statements can be linked to the actual theme of the passage?
a. The present touch drought arrived after a period in which people were already growing more
afraid of touching one another.
b. The reason for touch-scepticism is the growing global awareness of how touch is a weapon
that men use to impose their power over women.
c. During the pandemic, nurses and doctors have talked about how this unique characteristic of
touch helped them communicate with patients.
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only c D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c

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13. Which of the following adjectives can be used to describe human touch as expressed in
the above passage?
a. reassuring, circumscribe
b. intrinsic, noncommunicable
c. infectious, alterative
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
The suicide of three NEET aspirants in Tamil Nadu has sparked yet another debate on India’s
stressful entrance exams. The root problem is neither administrative nor educational but social. Our
children are conditioned from infancy to think that they have three career choices — doctor, engineer
or failure. The shine has faded somewhat from engineering courses since the economic downturn.
Besides, engineering institutes being less rigorous to set up, their number can match or (as today)
even exceed the demand. NEET has thus replaced JEE as the (I), but both have spawned serious
social maladies.
The greatest stress is usually generated by parents and the family, even playing off siblings against
one another. Peer pressure comes close as a second factor. Schools are induced to measure their
success by the number of students clearing NEET and JEE. Middle-class families snidely compare
the (II).
A new addition to this dismal scene should, in itself, be deeply heartening — growing aspiration
among children of disadvantaged backgrounds. When such a child beats the odds to excel at school,
she might face even more pressure than her (III). This is aggravated by a sense of inadequate
support. These children cannot attend coaching centres or even courses in distance mode, let alone
the residential coaching hubs epitomised by Kota. If they do, deficiencies in schooling and
background make it hard for them to cope.
The deficiencies in schooling may not always be absolute, but simply in terms of the (IV). Their
structure is often at a strategic remove from the standard STEM curriculum — justifiably so, to test
the special aptitude a course may require. This gap is exploited for gain by the coaching industry. A
third player has made it big during the pandemic: Online tutorials for the core curriculum.
_______________________________________________. This is causing consternation among
teachers in India’s humbler schools, but their voice goes unheard.
14. In the Question below FOUR phrases are given which must be filled in the positions given
in I, II, III and IV in the passage. From the options given below, choose the correct order of
phrases that should be filled in the positions given.
A. peculiar demands of entrance tests

B. career-driven adolescent’s greatest torment

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C. privileged peers from family and community

D. respective success of neighborhood children
A. BDAC B. BDCA C. ADBC D. BACD E. DCBA
15. Which of the following probable reasons is/are the reason(s) why engineering courses
have lost their charm, according to the above passage?
a. due to the unhealthy ambience in engineering colleges, which are producing unemployable
engineers with substandard skills.
b. The uneven growth in engineering colleges over the last decade left seats vacant, which led
to devalued degrees.
c. the economic slump and massive automation introduced in the IT sector.
16. Why is the author so critical of the parents and the family?
a. Owing to their sky-high and unwarranted expectations from their children.

b. Due to the fact that they give rise to rivalry between two siblings.
c. Because of the fact that they bring about a sense of insecurity in their children.
A. Both b and c B. Both a and b C. Only b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
17. Which of the following statements can be inferred from the THIRD PARAGRAPH of the
above passage?
a. It's extremely difficult for a student belonging to a less-privileged background to nurture

his/her dream to crack the entrance exam.
b. A student coming from an underprivileged background will find attending coaching centres
challenging because of the fact that he/she was not taught well in the school.
c. A student coming from a deprived family might experience a sense of opposition from his/her
fortunate peers, when he/she starts performing well.
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both b and c D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
Women have been hit hardest by the pandemic. On the one hand, the female labour participation
rate in India fell to 16.1% in 2020, the lowest among major economies. On the other hand, there was

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a rise of about 50% in cases of child marriage the same year, according to data released by the
National Crime Records Bureau. Economically distressed parents often marry off girl children to
escape (I). The closure of schools has also left young girls extremely vulnerable.
The fact that West Bengal had the third highest number of child marriage cases shows that even
welfare schemes that have had some success, such as the Kanyashree Prakalpa, need to be
reimagined. Reports show that the scheme has, ironically, become tangled in the marriage economy
of rural Bengal. _______________________________________________. Underage,
undernourished mothers are in no position to give birth to healthy children, perpetuating (II).
The numbers speak for themselves. But governments seldom want to hear the harsh truth. Last
year, the Union minister for women and child development had told Parliament that “there is no data
to indicate rising number of child marriage cases during the lockdown”. Such ignorance is likely to
make a bad situation worse. This month, the Rajasthan government passed an amendment to
reduce the age of registration of marriage for women who had been married off as children. The
second case exposes (III). The law holds that a marriage between two underage individuals is
‘voidable’ only if one of the contracting parties files a case at the district court.
The bigger problem, however, lies in viewing child marriage merely as an inequitable tradition. More
worryingly, child marriage is also — in as many as 50% of the cases, according to some estimates
— (IV), often by family members. What chance do young girls have in a system that is rigged entirely
against women?
in I, II, III and IV, in the passage. From the options given below, choose the correct order of
A. a medium for trafficking women

B. a vicious cycle of deprivation
C. the financial burden of caring
D. a lacuna in the law prohibiting child marriage
A. CBDA B. BDCA C. ACBD D. DABC E. BDAC
19. According to the author, the welfare scheme Kanyashree Prakalpa needs to be
conceptualized in a new way. What can be the probable reason(s) for that?
a. Because the money provided for funding education under that scheme is being used to pay
dowry.
b. Because, it's definitely not the scheme to target both dropout and early marriage together.
c. Because, it's a substantial intervention at a time when the percentage of underage marriage
among girls in West Bengal is the highest in India

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20. Which of the following statements can be INFERRED from the fact that the there was a
rise of about 50% in cases of child marriage, as expressed in the FIRST PARAGRAPH.
a. There is, of course, a causal relationship between deteriorating economic conditions and
early marriage.
b. Female labour participation rate has fallen due to the degenerating condition of the economy.
c. A long detachment from studies has made young girls prone to getting married.
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
21. Which of the following statements can most appropriately fit in the blank in the SECOND
PARAGRAPH of the above passage?
The sentence must be in line with the LAST STATEMENT of that paragraph.
a. Child marriage and child trafficking have increased with the pandemic and natural calamities
pushing families into extreme poverty in Bengal
b. The nutritional status of children recorded a significant fall in the State, reversing the
considerable progress achieved in earlier periods
c. The spike in child marriages has, expectedly, corresponded with a worrying rise in infant and
maternal mortality rates and child malnutrition: both have risen in Bengal
22. Which of the following probable SITUATIONS could occur as a result of the lacuna in the
law prohibiting child marriage, as expressed in the THIRD PARAGRAPH?
a. Even if one of the two parties involved in a marriage between two underage individuals, walks
out of the marriage, the other party can reverse that and resume the marriage.
b. The entrenched social acceptability of child marriages means that thousands of cases will go
unreported.
c. The marriage between two minors is annulled with the help of the intervention by the district
court.
23. Which of the following things is the author most apprehensive about?
a. Child marriage is still considered to be a fair tradition.

b. Women can be traded illegally through child marriages.
c. Two individuals are married off before they come of age.
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and b D. Only c E. All a, b and c

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24. How would you describe the attitude of the Government, as expressed in the above
passage?
a. heedless
b. uninformed
c. sadistic
The war against the coronavirus has not been won. Consequently, what the Homo sapiens — an
ingenious species wired to survive — seem to be concentrating on is winning the smaller battles.
Given the gargantuan size of the human ego, these triumphs have been christened with a singular
title: ‘revenge phenomenon’. So contemporary society, ravaged by Covid, is now replete with various
kinds of righteous acts of vengeance against the virus. Affluent families lucky enough to have
survived in comfortable cocoons go out, whenever there is a dip in the positivity rate, on what is now
known as ‘revenge tourism’. There is the ‘revenge dinner’, too, for the patrons tired of the mundane
daal-chawal-sabji food regime, brightening up the mood of restaurateurs.
Yet, humanity’s relationship with retaliation has been markedly tempestuous. Indeed, Francis Bacon,
the English philosopher, described revenge as a kind of ‘wild justice’, acts that lie outside the realm
of refined, redistributive justice. It cannot be denied that the fascination with revenge could not be
snuffed out entirely. Postmodern societies often bloody their hands by dispensing extrajudicial
justice. The Indian examples would include khap panchayats that are known for their role in killing
men and women, usually inter-caste couples, in the name of honor.
The march of civilization mirrors a curious contradiction. Humanity moves forward but the journey is
made possible because of received wisdom from the past. The glorification of revenge — it has
added a degree of thrill to benign leisure activities — cannot simply be brushed aside as a quibble
with semantics. In a world battling a deadly pandemic, the honor bestowed upon vengeance is
representative of a beguiling intersection of the primitive and the postmodern. But this convergence
begets questions. ___________________________
25. In the Question below FOUR WORDS are given which must be filled in the positions given
WORDS that should be filled in the positions given.
A. vengeance
B. contradiction
C. intersection
D. fascination

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A. DBCA B. ADBC C. CDBA D. ACBD E. BCAD
26. In the FIRST paragraph, the author has made a mockery. Which of the following
statements can be made, keeping the mockery in mind?
a. Human beings now want to compensate for the debilitating effects of the coronavirus by
acting irresponsibly.
b. Human beings are self-obsessed.
c. Monotony is now almost unbearable for human beings.
27. How has 'revenge' been defined by the author, in the entire passage?
a. People have always taken revenge, driven by strong and turbulent emotions.
b. Taking revenge has sometimes been righteous.
c. The tendency to retaliate has been the intrinsic attribute of human beings.
28. Which of the following statements can be deducted from the LAST PARAGRAPH of the
above passage?
a. Extolling the act of taking revenge exhibits something which is a mixture of being uncivilised
and being neoteric.
b. No matter how developed a human society is, it can never be devoid of its past.
c. Human beings try to justify the act of revenge by calling their acts harmless and relaxing.
A. Only b B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
29. Which of the following QUESTIONS can most appropriately fit in the blank in LAST
PARAGRAPH?
a. Is mankind evolving or regressing?

b. Is mankind moving forward or backward?
c. Is mankind being virtuously sound?

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The rate of increase in the prices of goods and services is usually measured in terms of statistically-
refined measures, with different weights attached to different goods according to their relative
importance. Monthly statistics on inflation sometimes register increases; sometimes they soften.
However, to the common person, these can be of little use in coping with the monster of rising prices
that affect (I).
Take, for instance, the doubling of the price of cooking gas cylinders. It now stands at Rs 911.
Mustard oil prices had crossed Rs 200 per litre. Petrol and diesel prices have galloped north on
account of a surge in oil prices. Education as such has not become costlier, but online classes have
meant families have had to purchase more smartphones to ensure everyone who needs them has
one. Obviously, (II) have risen under the circumstances.
Another area of concern has been the rapid rise in the price of medicines. These are not costly or
rarely-used medicines. These are commonly used, such as antacids, paracetamols and even
vitamins. Aggregate data do not reveal fully everyday price rises; definitely not to the extent that they
pinch (III). These facts need to be seen in the light of the fact that during the last one year, a
substantial number of citizens have slid back into poverty while many have slipped down from the
middle-class income-bracket.
Several reasons are cited for rising inflation. Supply chains have not been fully
repaired._________________________________________. At a time when constituencies with
fixed incomes are being inconvenienced, it can be deduced that the impact of inflation-induced price
rise is even harsher on the poor. There is news that mid-day meals are becoming less nutritious in
terms of choice of food available. India stands to lose much of (IV). The Centre, like in other
instances of national problems, has been singularly silent. The public at large also seems unusually
quiet. These, as they say, are interesting times.
A. the pockets of households

B. the gains in food security made over the last two or three decades
C. everyday purchases of necessities
D. the costs incurred in purchasing greater internet data packs
A. BDCA B. CADB C. DBCA D. CDAB E. DCAB
31. Which of the following statements about 'inflation' is/are TRUE, as expressed in the FIRST
PARAGRAPH?
a. Data related to inflation is incomprehensible to ordinary people.

b. The effect of inflation has been perturbing for ordinary people.
c. Monthly inflation data is sporadic.

25
32. How is education affected by inflation, according to the above passage?
a. The medium of education is compelling everyone to spend more money on it.

b. To give a student proper education, one must be ready to spend a lot of money, as the entire
educational system has become high-priced.
c. Continuing education sitting at home has become a pricey affair.
33. Which of the following statements can be inferred from the THIRD PARAGRAPH of the
above passage?
a. Collective data on inflation is non-specific and concealing.

b. One has to pay a huge price even if he/she is suffering from a minor illness.
c. Due to inflation, many people have been the victims of changed economic status.
34. Which of the following reasons that can be cited for rising inflation, can most
appropriately fit in the blank in the LAST PARAGRAPH?
a. Some shrewd traders are squeezing buyers to make up for the business lost last year.
b. It is being suggested that vagaries of the climate are taking their toll on the availability of
food.
c. Malnutrition and undernourishment are likely to rise.
A. Only b B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
35. Which of the following INFERENCES is/are UNTRUE, according to the entire context?
a. Poor people have fixed incomes.

b. It appears to be an incessant rise in taxes imposed on petroleum products.
c. In recent times, prices of all common goods have skyrocketed at an astonishing pace.
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and c D. Only b E. All a, b and c
36. How would you describe the author's tone(s) in the entire context?
a. perplexed

26
b. illustrative
c. commentative
Several years ago, Arla, one of the largest dairy companies in the world, set out to create a product
to take advantage of an inviting opportunity. Consumers were increasingly seeking out protein as a
healthful nutrient, and whey protein, derived from milk, was seen as the most desirable kind,
especially by athletes. Isolating protein from whey and adding it to clear drinks could make them
more (m)secretive to consumers and make Arla a lot of money, but there was a problem: the
flavour. ___________________________
So ‘dairy technicians’ at Arla Food Ingredients set out to create a better whey protein. After years of
development, the company recently released eight kinds of whey protein isolate that dissolve in
water and become practically (n)stable to the senses: essentially no taste, smell, cloudiness or dry
mouthfeel.
Arla Food Ingredients sells the protein isolates to companies that add them to consumer products.
All eight have the same general properties, with each individually tuned for different applications.
Lacprodan SP-9213, for instance, remains (o)undetectable under acidic conditions. Imagine a glass
of orange juice with the protein of an omelette.
Arla is (p)appealing about how much it sells or what specific products it’s used for, saying only that
its isolates are used by some of the biggest food companies in the world. But the company gives
strong hints about one application: ‘Tea, which has been the drink of choice for millions of people
around the world for centuries, has a powerful association with wellness. Meanwhile, protein’s
benefits in areas such as weight loss and muscle growth are increasingly sought after by
consumers,’ says a product manager at Arla. ‘Marrying these two trends to create the unique
concept of high-protein iced tea makes complete sense.’
37. Four words in four different paragraphs have been given in bold. They may not be placed
at their correct places. Choose the correct order of those words.
A. p o n m
B. n p o m
C. m o p n
D. o n p m

27
38. Which of the following comments can be made on the dairy company Arla?
a. Their behavior is adjusted to the pattern of the times.

b. They believe in profiteering.
c. Their approach can be called a client-centric approach.
39. Which of the following statements can most appropriately fit in the blank in the first
paragraph in the above passage?
a. Whey protein has a milky taste and, separated from milk’s natural fat and sugar, it has a dry
mouthfeel.
b. This powder created from the watery part of cow’s milk, can quickly become bland, boring
and repetitive.
c. When people consume whey protein, it sure does fill them up, but it can lead to an imbalance
in their diet.
A. Both b and c B. Both a and b C. Both a and c D. All a, b and c E. None of a, b and c
40. Which of the following statements can be inferred from the attitude of the consumers, as
expressed in the above context?
a. Consumers are certainly very health-conscious.

b. Consumers have no qualms about something which is flavourless, because its flavour can be
modified later.
c. A milk derivative which is a good source of protein, will be accepted as the most worthy
source of protein to all kinds of consumers.
A. Only b B. Both b and c C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
41. What can be said about Arla, after reading the last paragraph?
a. They pay attention to the physical welfare of the consumers but at same time they want to
popularize their product.
b. They probably are influenced by a current popular style.
c. They probably want to fulfill the needs of the consumers artfully.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
42. How would you describe the company Arla as expressed in the above context, using
idioms?

28
a. on the up and up
b. up to the minute
c. on the drawing board
A. Only a B. Both a and b C. Only b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
Direction(43-44): Read the given short passages carefully and answer the questions that
follow.
Since its inception in 2015, the research laboratory OpenAI – an Elon Musk-backed initiative that
seeks to build human-friendly artificial intelligence – has developed a series of powerful ‘language
models’, the latest being GPT-3 (third-generation Generative Pre-trained Transformer). A language
model is a computer program that simulates human language. Like other simulations, it hovers
between the reductive and the visionary. Such language models lie behind the predictive
suggestions for emails and text messages. Gmail’s Smart Compose can complete ‘I hope this …’
with ‘… email finds you well’. Instances of automated journalism (sports news and financial reports,
for example) are on the rise, while explanations of the benefits from insurance companies and
marketing copy likewise rely on machine-writing technology.
______________________________________
43. Which of the following statements will probably be TRUE according to the above
passage?
a. Today’s language models are given enormous amounts of existing writing to digest and learn
from.
b. Today's language models estimate likelihoods (the probability of a word appearing after a
prior passage of words) for every word in their vocabulary.
c. The problem lies in the way that machine-learning and language models are trained and
tested, and there’s no easy fix.
A. Both b and c B. Both a and b C. Both a and c D. Only b E. All a, b and c
44. Which of the following statements can most appropriately fit in the blank in the above
statement?
a. We can imagine a near future where machines play an even larger part in highly conventional
kinds of writing, but also a more creative role in imaginative genres.
b. Smaller, more carefully tuned models could solve some of the other problems associated with
large language models, like environmental impact.
c. The language model is chameleon-like—it adapts to the style and content of the conditioning
text allowing the user to generate realistic and coherent continuations about a topic of their
choosing.
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c

29
The Marylebone Cricket Club — the sole authority vested with the power to draw up the Codes of
Laws that govern cricket since 1787 — has adopted the gender-neutral terms, “batter” and “batters”,
in place of “batsman” and “batsmen”. The once (m)representative institution of privilege and
exclusivity said in its statement that the move aims to recognize “the changing landscape of the
game in modern times”. Indeed, women’s cricket has proved its ability to draw crowds — in 2017,
England took on India in the Women’s World Cup finals in front of a capacity crowd at Lord’s, while a
record international crowd witnessed Australia beat India in the T20 World Cup final in Melbourne
three years later.
The renaming is (n)hoary, but this does little to make the cricket field truly
(o)crucial.______________________________________. The annual retainership for women
players in the top tier is Rs 50 lakh; the figure is one crore for an Indian male cricketer in the lowest
grade. The logic used to pay women less — lack of viewership and sponsorship — is as ancient as
some of the men’s cricket clubs. Moreover, the onus of getting fans, sponsors and revenue lies not
with cricketers, but the administration.
In men’s cricket, the shortening of boundaries and the introduction of the ‘super over’ were decisions
taken with an eye on heightening the drama and, by implication, filling the coffers. But this kind of
innovation eludes women’s cricket. Endorsements are far fewer for women cricketers, as are post-
retirement benefits — the latter would be (p)laudable for a greater number of women to look at
cricket as a rewarding career. For all this to happen, cricket administrations must cede more space
to women. Even though the International Cricket Council has launched ‘100% Cricket’, an annual
campaign dedicated to the promotion of women’s cricket, not much is expected to change — apart
from the semantics — because of the absence of women’s representation in decision-making
bodies.
45. Four words in bold may be placed incorrectly. Choose the contextually right order of the
words. If no replacement is required, choose E as your answer.
A. o m p n
B. n m o p
C. n p m o
D. m o n p
46. Which of the following STATEMENTS CAN BE MADE, according to the FIRST
a. Women cricketers are emerging as stars in their own right.

b. Television coverage of women’s cricket has improved, forcing the cricketing establishment to
play catch-up — at last.
c. Women cricketers have not been the victims of favouritism.

30
47. Which of the following statements can most appropriately fit in the blank in the SECOND
PARAGRAPH, which would be supportive of the fact that the renaming isn't effective?
The sentence(s) in the blank must be in line with the subsequent sentences.
a. For women cricketers, especially those from India, the pitch remains a vicious turner.
b. While women cricketers need the same amount of resources to succeed at the international
level, they earn a fraction of what the men do.
c. Studies have shown that the length of the pitch slows down male pacers, making the sport
less interesting for viewers.
48. Why is the author not so optimistic about some changes to happen in women's cricket?
a. Because, there's not anyone speaking or acting on behalf of women in the determinant
bodies.
b. Because there are fewer women's representatives than men's representatives in the board.
c. Because, people aren't so thrilled about women's cricket.
49. How would you describe the author's tone(s) in the above passage?
a. sceptical, revelatory
b. commiserative, captious
c. dispirited, condemnatory
Direction(50-51): Read the given short passages carefully and answer the questions that
follow.
Passage 1
Growing up in Britain in the 1980s, the Second World War seemed far removed from my experience.
I was taught that fascism had been defeated, democracy and equality had won. But a different
picture emerged in my mid-20s, when I moved to east London and began working in a community for
people marginalised because of neurological disabilities. I witnessed startling poverty and exclusion,

31
and civic systems that seemed on the brink of collapse. I supported clients through relentless
benefits assessments with state employees who appeared trapped in the role of hostile gatekeepers.
I attended medical appointments with doctors who behaved like automata, hurriedly citing the
‘evidence base’ and leaving my clients to make life-or-death decisions without specialist support.
And I was alarmed by the number of times, in just a few years, that I attended clients’ funerals when
they died early, preventable deaths.
50. Which of the following statements will justify the disillusionment the author felt in his mid-
20s?
a. The author probably experienced a political regime that exalts nation and often race, above
the individual.
b. The author witnessed social disparity.
c. The author experienced a situation in which everyone was treated evenly and had equivalent
rights.
51. How would you describe the author's various states of mind, as expressed in the above
passage?
a. unnerved
b. philanthropic
c. disenchanted
Carbon emissions are rebounding strongly and are rising across the world's 20 richest nations,
according to a new study. The Climate Transparency Report says that CO2 will go up by 4% across
the G20 group this year, having dropped 6% in 2020 due to the pandemic. China, India and
Argentina are set to exceed their 2019 emissions levels.
The authors say that the continued use of fossil fuels is undermining efforts to rein in temperatures.
With just two weeks left until the critical COP26 climate conference opens in Glasgow, the task
facing negotiators is stark. One of the key goals of the gathering is to take steps to keep the
important 1.5C temperature threshold alive and within reach.
With the world currently around 1.1C warmer than pre-industrial times, limiting future incremental
increases is extremely challenging. If Glasgow is going to succeed on this question, then the
countries that create the most carbon will have to put ambitious policies into place.

32
The evidence from this new report is that it isn't happening fast enough. The G20 group is
responsible for around 75% of global emissions, which fell significantly last year as economies were
closed down in response to Covid-19. But this year's rebound is being powered by fossil fuel,
especially coal. According to the report, compiled by 16 research organisations and environmental
campaign groups, coal use across the G20 is projected to rise by 5% this year.
This is mainly due to China who are responsible for around 60% of the rise, but increases in coal are
also taking place in the US and India.
Coal use in China has surged with the country experiencing increased demand for energy as the
global economy has recovered. Coal prices are up nearly 200% from a year ago. This in turn has
seen power cuts as it became uneconomical for coal-fired electricity plants to generate electricity in
recent months.
52. Which of the following statements is/are TRUE according to the above passage?
a. The economic systems were shut down last year due to the pandemic.
b. The overall level of CO2 emission will rise throughout the entire world this year, according to
the Climate Transparency Report.
c. China is not the country which is majorly accountable for the rise in coal use.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Only c D. All a, b and c E. None of a, b and c
53. Which of the following factors is/are responsible for the fact that CO2 emission has
started to rise again this year?
a. The augmented use of fossil fuels like coal.

b. The increased price of coal.
c. The global state in terms of the production and consumption of goods has got better, causing
more demand for energy.
A. Both b and c B. Only c C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
54. Which of the following statements is/are FALSE according to the above passage?
a. For a major portion of global emissions, the G20 group is blameworthy.


33
b. Coal prices haven't surged significantly in comparison with last year's prices.
c. Almost every country is expected to have a greater use of coal this year.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Only c D. All a, b and c E. None of a, b and c
55. According to the above passage, why is it difficult to limit the rise in temperature in
future?
a. Because, the increased use of fossil fuels is not stopping.

b. Because, the current temperature is already higher than that of pre-industrial times.
c. Because there are frequent power cuts due to the high price of coal.
56. Which of the following statements is/are TRUE about the critical COP26 conference in
Glasgow?
a. The COP26 conference is around the corner.

b. One of the main objectives of this conference is about ways to restrict future temperature
rise.
c. The countries producing the most carbon are required to fully use their abilities and resources
and have a strong desire to succeed, in order to make the objective of the conference a
successfully realized one.
57. Which of the following words has/have an OPPOSITE MEANING to the word 'rebound', as
used in the above passage?
a. recoil
b. cause
c. backlash
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Only b E. All a, b and c
58. Which of the following words is/are SYNONYMOUS with the word 'ambitious' as used in
the above passage?

34
a. indifferent
b. compulsive
c. determined
59. What are the different tones of the author in the above passage?
a. illuminating
b. factual
c. revealing
Two scientists have been awarded the 2021 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their work on building
molecules that are mirror images of one another. German-born Benjamin List and Scotland-born
David MacMillan were announced as the winners at an event in Stockholm.
Their chemical toolkit has been used for discovering new drugs and making molecules that can
capture light in solar cells. The winners will share the prize money of 10 million krona (£842,611).
Asked how he felt winning, Prof MacMillan, from Princeton University, said: "Dazed, confused,
elated, proud, sentimental, weepy - you name it. I feel all of those things right now." Prof List was on
holiday with his family when he heard the news: "I absolutely didn't expect this huge surprise,"
adding that he "thought it was a joke" when he received the call from Sweden.
While at Harvard University in the late 1990s, MacMillan had been working with metal catalysts. But
the types used in his research were rarely taken up by industry. The problem was that, while the
oxygen-free and moisture-free conditions demanded by some metal catalysts were possible to
achieve in the lab, this was much more difficult at large scales.
McMillan began designing simple organic molecules (chemicals that contain carbon and hydrogen
bonded together) which could do the same job as metals, but were not destroyed by moisture.

35
Their work focused on catalysts, substances that can speed up chemical reactions without becoming
part of the final product. The Nobel Committee said the technique had "taken molecular construction
to an entirely new level".
A total of 187 individuals have received the chemistry prize since it was first awarded in 1901. Only
seven of these awardees have been women.
a. Men have predominated in the list of recipients of the Nobel Prize.

b. Prof MacMillan had mixed feelings after winning the Nobel Prize.
c. The total amount of the prize money will be distributed between two awardees.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. None of a, b and c E. All a, b and c
61. Why were the types used in MacMillan's research taken up by the industry not often?
a. Because, the required conditions were difficult to attain without a special ambience.
b. Because, the required conditions were not easily achievable.
c. Because, the required conditions were not affordable.
62. Which of the following words is/are SYNONYMOUS with the word 'sentimental', as used in the
above passage?
a. practical
b. nostalgic
c. emotional
d. dejected
A. All b, c and d B. Both a and c C. Both b and c D. All a, c and d E. All a, b, c and d

36
63. Which of the following words has/have an OPPOSITE MEANING to the word 'awardees', as
a. grantees
b. giftees
c. donors
d. beneficiaries
A. All b, c and d B. Both a and c C. Both b and c D. Only c E. All a, b, c and d
a. McMillan found a weather-proof substitute for metals.

b. According to the Nobel Committee, the technique by both the scientists was revolutionary.
c. To Prof List, the news of getting the Nobel Prize was out of the blue.
65. What is/are the tone(s) of the PASSAGE?
a. enlightening
b. unfavourable
c. narrative
The Union government says that there is enough coal, three days' requirements, on average at
India's thermal power plants. That does not change the fact that this average supply does not
materialise at every plant - some survive hand-to-mouth. The norm is three weeks' stocks.
At (I) that now threatens load-shedding is Indian politicians' obsession that power must be cheap.
Raise petrol and diesel prices as much as you want, but keep power prices rigidly low, never mind if
these break the financial back of power utilities, make them run up dues to power generators and
impose a heavy debt burden on the state governments that borrow on their behalf.

37
Install smart meters, have time-of-day tariffs that rise during hours of high demand and fall when
demand abates. On a longer-term basis, institute open access, so that industry can buy reliable
power, paying higher prices that would still be lower than their own (II). Restructure all fixed tariffs as
dual tariffs, so that fuel costs can be passed through, instead of
_________________________________________________.
Right now, global gas supplies are strained, thanks to depletion of reserves in the US and Europe,
thanks to severe, (III) in the winter and extra-hot summers and droughts that shrivelled hydro-
electricity generation. Step up generation of gas and hydrogen from coal, capture the accompanying
CO2 and sequester it.
Of course, now that the rains are over, Coal India and captive mines can step up output. Give them
(IV).
A. captive generation
B. export-parity prices
C. extended cold spells
D. the root of the shortage
A. CABD B. DBAC C. BDAC D. DCBA E. None of the above options
67. Why is the author not convinced of the Union government's confidence regarding the fact
that there is enough coal stocks at India’s thermal power plants?
a. Because, some power plants have stocks that satisfy only their immediate needs.
b. Because, the standard stock should be enough for three weeks' requirements.
c. Because, not every power plant in the country has the financial means to afford enough coal
stocks.
68. Which of the following things have been criticized by the author in the SECOND
a. The inclination towards keeping the power price low

b. Exploiting state governments
c. Raising the price of fuels instead of raising the power price

38
69. What are the author's suggestions for ending the coal shortage, according to the above
passage?
a. Setting up a structure in which different rates are applicable for use of electricity at different
times of the day.
b. Relying on industry's own ability to generate power.
c. Making provisions so that power can be accessed by all and can be bought, even at a greater
price.
70. Which of the following statements can be written in the blank in the THIRD PARAGRAPH
of the above passage?
a. forcing some power plants dependent on imported coal to stop producing.

b. crying force majeure.
c. having bid unsustainably low tariffs to win orders.
71. Why is the author so happy about the adverse natural phenomena in the US and Europe?
a. Because, these adverse phenomena will apparently lead to more dependence on coal
energy.
b. Because, more CO2 will be produced.
c. Because, these adverse phenomena will eventually lead to more production of power.
72. Which of the following statements can be the author's concluding statement?
a. Ending rigidity of power prices is the first step to ending coal shortage.
b. There is no power as costly as no power.
c. The impact of coal in terms of forest loss and air pollution cannot be discounted in the context
of climate change.

39
73. How would you describe the author's different tones in the entire passage?
a. censorious
b. mocking
c. consultatory
Direction(74-): Read the given passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
The recent worldwide (I) experienced by customers of social media platforms like WhatsApp and
Facebook revealed a surprising fact about the relative importance of these means of communication
against more traditional ones such as short messaging service. Yet, during the six hours of outage,
people did not fall back on SMS to communicate.
SMS, which accounted for 10% of total revenue at its peak, has fallen to only 0.55% of total (II). SMS
is now used only for receiving ‘one time passwords’ for making online transactions. Banks,
particularly, are still quite dependent on SMS. One reason for this is that internet access is still not
adequate in remote areas in India where they operate. But the other modes of messaging are far
more popular in India.
Customer behaviour during the outage also points to the way technology engenders dependence.
Social media technologies are far more enabling in creative (III) with pictures, emojis, voice
messages and group texting and calling. The SMS, thus, appears relatively archaic. There are many
other considerations too for the strict preference. Data security that platforms like WhatsApp officially
promise is an attractive feature. According to some experts in psychology and communications,
emojis may become a new form of language, or at least an integral part of communications. Verbal,
face-to-face communication allowed people to factor in tone of voice or body language. Even purely
voice messages allowed the receiver to discern the (IV) of the voice of the speaker.

40
74. In the Question below FOUR WORDS are given which must be filled in the positions given
WORDS that should be filled in the positions given.
A. intonations
B. revenue
C. outage
D. communication
A. CABD B. CBDA C. BDAC D. DCBA E. None of the above options
75. What does the recent world-wide outage, as expressed in the above passage, show to us?
a. It shows that public reliance on SMS has dropped drastically.

b. It shows a trend that telecom companies are well aware of.
c. It shows that people bank more on using WhatsApp and Facebook.
76. Which of the following statements can be TRUE, in accordance with the SECOND
a. According to one estimate, out of more than two billion WhatsApp users, an estimated 400
million people in India are increasingly using WhatsApp as the primary mode of
communication.
b. The Internet is still not on hand in many places.
c. Traditional messaging services are indeed still used for essential services.
77. What can be deducted from the customer behaviour during the outage, according to the
above passage?
a. Traditional messaging services are not as interactive as social media messaging services.
b. In purely spoken messages on the digital medium, the only way to communicate emotions
may be the emojis and the emoticons.
c. People are heavily and increasingly leaning on social media technologies.

41
78. Which of the following statements CAN BE TRUE, according to the above passage?
a. There has been an increase in internet outages in recent years.

b. Social media outgrew its role as an extension of people’s lives to being a primary mode of
communication.
c. In the absence of physical proximity, online spaces helped users to connect with one another.
79. Which of the following statements can be the author's CONCLUDING STATEMENT(S)?
a. What happened during the outage is an interesting instance of how technology shapes mass
culture.
b. For addictive forms of communications, outages would become extremely costly for the
companies that own the platforms.
c. Socialising and making friends and talking to people in real life can be very beneficial.
80. How would you describe the author's tone(s), as expressed in the above passage?
a. Illuminating
b. Reasoned
c. Reprimanding
ANSWER

42
1. (Answer - A. o m p n
humanise - to adapt (something) to human nature or use.
stop-gap measure - a temporary measure to deal with a problem or satisfy a need.
adaptability - the quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.)
2.(Answer - A. Only a
Refer to - doing technology well contributes to our hopes for leading an ethically good life:
Hence, the phrase a is perfectly correct.
Phrase b and c - Incorrect. These phrases are contradictory. These are carrying a negative
tone which is opposite to the phrase 'ethically good life'.)
3.(Answer - C. Both a and b
Refer to - However, the essential capability I’m concerned about is not videoconferencing in itself,
but rather the humanisation of technologies for everyone’s benefit.
That means, if technology is humanised properly, that would satisfy the author.
humanise - to adapt (something) to human nature or use.
The author also suggests - But to do so successfully, we need to think more deeply and creatively,
using techniques from the interdisciplinary field we call design research – applying a blend of
psychology, philosophy, anthropology, engineering and aesthetics.
The author suggests to apply a blend of psychology, philosophy, anthropology, engineering

and aesthetics.
anthropology - the study of human societies and cultures and their development.
That means, the author wants human societies and cultures and their development to be
studied enough while developing technologies.
Statement c - Incorrect.
It's nowhere been suggested to make more affordable and economical technologies rather
than expensive ones.)
Refer to - As the designer Jon Kolko says in Well-Designed (2014), we should adopt an ‘optimistic
stance’ and ‘seek to explore the situation space, to see multiple potentials for improvement, and to
always consider what might be’ through systematic empathy and ‘integrative thinking’.

43
That means - Positive attitude, the ability to feel for others and think as a whole should be
embraced while exploring various possibilities for betterment.
potential - possibility.
integrative - as a whole or collective.
Statement b - Incorrect. It's nowhere meant that positive and hopeful attitude and the ability
to understand the feelings of others will lead to collective decision making.
Statement c - Incorrect. No such condition can be derived or summarised.)
5.(Answer - E. All a, b and c
Refer to the last paragraph -
The impact of bad design is massive – multiplied across the billions of people striving to
flourish online, not only when we need the technology as a stop-gap measure to alleviate
disruptions to everyday life, but also when we want to use it for more socially progressive
purposes.
That means it is so important to have a good design when it comes to using a technology like
video conferencing because it's important to make our regular lives hassle-free with the help
of technology, it's important to use technology for the welfare of the society and there are
countless number of people who rely on technology like online platforms to prosper.)
6.(Answer - D. Only c
The author throughout the passage has put emphasis on humanising technology.
Hence, the statement (c) makes perfect sense. The author will very likely agree with this
statement.
Statement a - Incorrect.
The author hasn't mentioned anywhere that more features should be added to improve the
technology.
Statement b - Incorrect. This is absolutely contradictory.

How can inefficient things give us meaning?)
7. (Answer - A. Both b and c
Refer to - Videoconferencing, and the telepresence experience it can enable, promises to facilitate
the formation of communities and partnerships that escape the boundaries of time and
distance. It can even help us overcome social and economic barriers.
That means, video conferencing is equalizing and unifying.
equalising - levelling.

44
unifying - uniting.
extortionate - (of a price) much too high; exorbitant.)

8. (Answer - D. BAC
Some researchers believe that these delicate filaments enhance the pleasant sensations of our
mother’s amniotic fluid gently washing over our skin, a precursor to the warm and calming feeling
that a child, once born, will derive from being hugged.
But if physical distance is what protects us, it’s also what stands in the way of care and nurturance.
from the very basic needs of bathing, dressing, lifting, assisting and medical treatment (usually
referred to as instrumental touch), to the more effective tactile exchanges that aim to
communicate, provide comfort and offer support (defined as expressive touch).
tactile - perceptible by touch : TANGIBLE.)
9.(Answer - D. Both a and c
The last statement was - While people suffering from COVID-19 can lose the sense of smell and
taste, touch being a proven vector, is the sense that has been diminished for almost all of us, test-
positive or not, symptomatic or not, hospitalised or not.
That means - touch has suffered a lot because it's the main vector of the virus.
At the same time, it's also the cure.
Hence, statements a and c can most appropriately fit.
paradoxically - in a contradictory manner.
Statement b - Incorrect. Here, touch is being appreciated, which has no link to the last
statement.)
10. (Answer - C. Both a and c
Refer to - Some researchers believe that these delicate filaments enhance the pleasant sensations
of our mother’s amniotic fluid gently washing over our skin, a precursor to the warm and calming
feeling that a child, once born, will derive from being hugged.
hold someone tightly and fondly - to hug.
But if physical distance is what protects us, it’s also what stands in the way of care and nurturance.
Looking after another human being almost inevitably involves touching them –
That means If someone has to be cared for, he/she has to be made physical contact with.
Statement b - Incorrect. The author has nowhere mentioned this.)

45
11. (Answer - D. Both a and b
The author in the entire passage has voiced his support for touch by mentioning those
examples. And, they're very true indeed.
Hence, statements a and b can be chosen.
Statement c has also been cited by the author.

But, by explaining the biological process involved in developing the touch sensation in a
baby doesn't justify his support for human touch.
It's just a scientific fact quoted by the author. It's not his personal view.
12.
(Answer - C. Only c
By this statement, the statement that touch can heal many things, is expressed.
Statement a - Incorrect. The phrase 'people were already growing more afraid of touching one
another.' makes this statement correct.
Statement b - Incorrect. The phrase 'use to impose their power over women.' makes this
statement out of context.
reassuring - restoring confidence and relieving anxiety.
circumscribed - restricted.
infectious - likely to spread or influence others in a rapid manner.
alterative - remedial.
intrinsic - essential.
noncommunicable - noninfectious.
14.(Answer - B. BDCA
NEET has thus replaced JEE as the career-driven adolescent’s greatest torment, but both have
spawned serious social maladies.
Middle-class enclaves snidely compare the respective success of neighbourhood children.
When such a child beats the odds to excel at school, she might face even more pressure than her
privileged peers from family and community.

46
The deficiencies in schooling may not always be absolute, but simply in terms of the peculiar
demands of entrance tests.)
15.(Answer - A. Both b and c
Refer to - The shine has faded somewhat from engineering courses since the economic
downturn. Besides, engineering institutes being less rigorous to set up, their number can match
or (as today) even exceed the demand.
That means the uneven growth in engineering colleges over the last decade left seats vacant,
which led to devalued degrees.
And, the economic slump and massive automation introduced in the IT sector, had an
adverse impact on the engineering institutes.
slump - a noticeable deterioration.

devalued - depreciated.
Option a - Incorrect. No such thing is mentioned. You can't use your imagination.)
Refer to - The greatest stress is usually generated by parents and the family, even playing off
siblings against one another. Peer pressure comes close as a second factor. Schools are induced
to measure their success by the number of students clearing NEET and JEE. Middle-class families
snidely compare the respective success of neighbourhood children.
play off - set into opposition or rivalry.
That means, parents do have sky-high and unwarranted expectations from their children.
That's why they put so much pressure on their children.
Parents also give rise to rivalry between two siblings.
give rise to / bring about - cause to happen.
By comparing their children with the children of the neighbours they create a sense of
insecurity in their children.)
Refer to - If they do, deficiencies in schooling and background make it hard for them to cope.
Hence, statements a and b can absolutely be inferred.
When such a child beats the odds to excel at school, she might face even more pressure than her
privileged peers from family and community.

47
Hence, statement c is INCORRECT. It's nowhere written that a student coming from a
deprived family might experience a sense of opposition from his/her fortunate peers, when
he/she starts performing well.)
18. (Answer - A. CBDA
Economically distressed parents often marry off girl children to escape the financial burden of
caring.
Underage, undernourished mothers are in no position to give birth to healthy children, perpetuating a
vicious cycle of deprivation.
The second case exposes a lacuna in the law prohibiting child marriage.
Child marriage is also — in as many as 50% of the cases, according to some estimates — a
medium for trafficking women, often by family members.)
19.(Answer - B. Only a
reimagine - to conceptualise.
Refer to - Kanyashree Prakalpa, need to be reimagined. Reports show that the scheme has,
ironically, become tangled in the marriage economy of rural Bengal.
That means, we can infer that the money provided for funding education under that scheme is
being used to pay dowry.
Option b - Incorrect. There's no such information in the passage. Even if it's true, how does it
justify the fact that Kanyashree Prakalpa needs to be conceptualised in a new way.
Option c - Incorrect. It's a positive statement about the scheme.
substantial intervention - policy of intervening in the affairs
20. (Answer - D. Both a and c
Refer to - Economically distressed parents often marry off girl children to escape the financial
burden of caring.
That means there is, of course, a causal relationship between deteriorating economic
conditions and early marriage.
causal - producing an effect.
The closure of schools has also left young girls extremely vulnerable.
That means a long detachment from studies has made young girls prone to getting married.
Statement b - Incorrect.

48
Early marriage has no relation with the fact that female labour participation rate has fallen
due to the degenerating condition of the economy.)
As the sentence must be in line with the LAST STATEMENT of that paragraph, we need to
read the last statement which says Underage, undernourished mothers are in no position to give
birth to healthy children, perpetuating a vicious cycle of deprivation.
Hence, statements b and c can perfectly fit in the blank, as they both are talking about the
poor nutritional status of children.
Statement a - Incorrect. This statement doesn't talk anything about the poor nutritional status
of children.)
22.(Answer - B. Both b and c
The lacuna in the law prohibiting child marriage - The law holds that a marriage between two
underage individuals is ‘voidable’ only if one of the contracting parties files a case at the district
court.
That means, only if a case is filed, the marriage can be declared invalid. Hence, there is a
huge possibility that thousands of cases of underage marriages will go unreported, because
of the entrenched social acceptability of child marriages.
entrenched - firmly established and difficult or unlikely to change; ingrained.

In other words, if two families have a firmly established social acceptability of child
marriages, they will not probably file a case.
Statement c - Correct. It can be said from the mentioned point.
annulled - declared invalid.
Statement a - Incorrect. This is an imaginary situation and cannot be derived from the given
lines.)
Refer to - The bigger problem, however, lies in viewing child marriage merely as an inequitable
tradition. More worryingly, child marriage is also — in as many as 50% of the cases, according to
some estimates — a medium for trafficking women, often by family members.
The bigger problem, however, lies in viewing child marriage merely as an inequitable
tradition.

49
inequitable - unfair.
That means, child marriage is still considered to be a fair tradition.
More worryingly, child marriage is also — in as many as 50% of the cases, according to some
estimates — a medium for trafficking women, often by family members.
That means, women can be traded illegally through child marriages.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's a fact. The author hasn't expressed his apprehensions for this. He
has expressed his worries for its implications and causes.)
24.(Answer - D. Both a and b
Refer to - The numbers speak for themselves. But governments seldom want to hear the harsh
truth. Last year, the Union minister for women and child development had told Parliament that “there
is no data to indicate rising number of child marriage cases during the lockdown”. Such ignorance is
likely to make a bad situation worse.
Hence, the Government is heedless and uninformed.
heedless - negligent and insincere.

uninformed - ignorant.
sadistic - deriving pleasure from inflicting pain, suffering, or humiliation on others.

This can't be said about the Government.)
25.(Answer - B. ADBC
vengeance - punishment inflicted or retribution exacted for an injury or wrong.
intersection - crossing.)
If you read the FIRST PARAGRAPH carefully, you'd see that all three statements can be made.
Lines like - Given the gargantuan size of the human ego, these triumphs have been christened
with a singular title: ‘revenge phenomenon’ signify that the author is making a mockery.
And, from this line, it can be inferred that human beings are self-obsessed.
People are going out for lunch, they are going for revenge tourism - all these signify that
monotony is almost unbearable for the people.)
27. (Answer - A. Only a

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Refer to - Yet, humanity’s relationship with retaliation has been markedly tempestuous. Indeed,
Francis Bacon, the English philosopher, described revenge as a kind of ‘wild justice’, acts that lie
outside the realm of refined, redistributive justice.
tempestuous - very strong and intense emotions, especially anger, are involved.
Therefore, it can be said that people have always taken revenge, driven by strong and
turbulent emotions.
Statement b - Incorrect. Taking revenge has never been morally correct, according to the
above context.
Statement c - Incorrect. The tendency to retaliate has not been the intrinsic/inherent attribute
of human beings.)
28. (Answer - E. All a, b and c
a - Correct.
Refer to - In a world battling a deadly pandemic, the honour bestowed upon vengeance is
representative of a beguiling intersection of the primitive and the postmodern.
The honour bestowed upon vengeance - the glorification of vengeance.
extol - to glorify.
beguiling - charming or enchanting, often in a deceptive way.
primitive - uncivilised.
neoteric - modernistic.
b - Correct.
Refer to - Humanity moves forward but the journey is made possible because of received wisdom
from the past.
c - Correct.
Refer to - The glorification of revenge — it has added a degree of thrill to benign leisure activities —
cannot simply be brushed aside as a quibble with semantics.
quibble - minor criticism.

brushed aside - dismissed.
semantics - the meaning of a word, phrase, or text.)
But this convergence begets questions.
convergence - the occurrence of two or more things coming together.
Here it is referred to the mixture of uncivilised and modern behaviours.

51
beget - give rise to.
Hence, questions a and b are the perfect choices.

But, question c is only positive in tone.
virtuously - morally.
sound - righteous or clean-handed.)
30. (Answer - D. CDAB
that affect everyday purchases of necessities.
Obviously, the costs incurred in purchasing greater internet data packs have risen under the
circumstances.
Aggregate data do not reveal fully everyday price rises; definitely not to the extent that they pinch the
pockets of households.
Malnutrition and undernourishment are likely to rise. India stands to lose much of the gains in food
security made over the last two or three decades.)
Refer to - Monthly statistics on inflation sometimes register increases; sometimes they soften.
that affect everyday purchases of necessities. In recent times, prices of many common goods have
skyrocketed at an astonishing pace.
Monthly statistics on inflation sometimes register increases; sometimes they soften.
That means monthly inflation data is sporadic or irregular or inconsistent.

And also, the effect of inflation has been perturbing for ordinary people.
perturbing - troubling.
Statement a - Incorrect.
It's given that - Monthly statistics on inflation sometimes register increases; sometimes they
soften. However, Monthly statistics on inflation sometimes register increases; sometimes they
soften. However, to the common person, these can be of little use in coping with the monster of
rising prices
That means, monthly statistics on inflation is unnecessary, not incomprehensible to common
people.
incomprehensible - not understandable.)

52
Refer to - Education as such has not become costlier, but online classes have meant families have
had to purchase more smartphones to ensure everyone who needs them has one. Obviously, the
costs incurred in purchasing greater internet data packs have risen under the circumstances.
That means, the medium of education(smartphones and Internet) is compelling everyone to

spend more money on it.
Continuing education sitting at home - online education.
b - Incorrect. The phrase 'the entire educational system has become high-priced' is
INCORRECT, as it's clearly written that 'Education as such has not become costlier.')
33.(Answer - A. Only a can be INFERRED.
Refer to - Aggregate data do not reveal fully everyday price rises; definitely not to the extent
that they pinch the pockets of households.
That means, collective data on inflation is non-specific and concealing.
Statement b - Incorrect. It can't be said. Minor illness doesn't mean 'commonly used drugs'.
Statement c - Incorrect.
Refer to - These facts need to be seen in the light of the fact that during the last one year, a
substantial number of citizens have slid back into poverty while many have slipped down from the
middle-class income-bracket.
Many people have been the victims of changed economic status not due to inflation.)
You're asked to choose reasons for inflation.

Hence, statements a and b can be chosen, as they are probable reasons for inflation.
Statement a - when some shrewd traders are squeezing buyers to make up for the business lost
last year, it gives rise to increased price.
Statement b - Correct.
vegaries - unexpected events or changes that cannot be controlled and can influence a situation.
Statement c - Incorrect. This is an effect, not the reason.)
35.(Answer - C. Both a and c

53
That's a little tricky one.
Refer to - At a time when constituencies with fixed incomes are being inconvenienced, it can be
deduced that the impact of inflation-induced price rise is even harsher on the poor.
Pay attention to the phrase - 'even harsher on the poor'.
That means, since people with fixed incomes are suffering, poor people (with inconsistent
incomes) are suffering more.
That means, 'Poor people have fixed incomes' is a FALSE inference.
Statement c - The phrase 'prices of all common goods' is INCORRECT. It can't be inferred that
prices of all common goods have skyrocketed.
Hence, this inference is FALSE.
Statement b -
Refer to - Petrol and diesel prices have galloped north on account of a surge in oil prices.
Hence, it can be said that it appears to be an incessant rise in taxes imposed on petroleum
products.
Therefore, this inference is TRUE.)
perplexed - confused.
Refer to - The Centre, like in other instances of national problems, has been singularly silent. The
public at large also seems unusually quiet. These, as they say, are interesting times.
illustrative - descriptive.
commentative - analytical.)
37.
(Answer - A. p o n m
undetectable - not able to be detected.
secretive - characterized by the concealment of intentions and information.
appealing - attractive.)
a - Correct. Their behavior is absolutely adjusted to the pattern of the times.

54
Refer to - Several years ago, Arla, one of the largest dairy companies in the world, set out to create
a product to take advantage of an inviting opportunity.
b - Correct.
profiteering - the act of taking advantage of a situation in order to make a profit.
Refer to - Isolating protein from whey and adding it to clear drinks could make them more appealing
to consumers and make Arla a lot of money….
c - Correct.
client-centric - a culture of doing business that focuses on creating the best experience for the
customer.
That's why they made eight different types of whey protein, just for the sake of giving the
consumers a better experience.)
39.(Answer - B. Both a and b
The first paragraph ends with the line - Isolating protein from whey and adding it to clear drinks
could make them more appealing to consumers and make Arla a lot of money, but there was a
problem: the flavour.
Hence, statements a and b are the perfect choices. Because, they're talking about the bad and
boring taste of whey protein.
Statement c is also a negative statement about whey protein, but it's surely not talking about
the taste of whey protein.)
40. (Answer - A. Only b
b - Correct. Yes it's true. Because, consumers didn't like the milky taste of whey protein.
And refer to the last statement of of second paragraph -
the company recently released eight kinds of whey protein isolate that dissolve in water and become
practically undetectable to the senses: essentially no taste, smell, cloudiness or dry
mouthfeel.
That means, consumers have no qualms about something which is flavourless, because its
flavour can be modified later.
qualm - reluctance.
a - Incorrect.
The definition of health-conscious is - concerned about how healthy one's diet and lifestyle are.
But, in this above passage, there's no such thing mentioned. People are increasingly seeking
out protein as a healthful nutrient. That does not mean that they're certainly very health-
conscious.

55
c - Incorrect. The phrase 'all kinds of consumers' makes it a wrong choice.
It's written that - Consumers were increasingly seeking out protein as a healthful nutrient, and whey
protein, derived from milk, was seen as the most desirable kind, especially by athletes.)
According to the last paragraph, ‘Tea, which has been the drink of choice for millions of
people around the world for centuries, has a powerful association with wellness. Meanwhile,
protein’s benefits in areas such as weight loss and muscle growth are increasingly sought
after by consumers,’ says a product manager at Arla. ‘Marrying these two trends to create the
unique concept of high-protein iced tea makes complete sense.’
That means, consuming tea is a very popular culture. Tea has its own benefits. Combining it
with whey, probably would be a great idea.
Hence, Arla pays attention to the physical welfare of the consumers but at same time they
want to popularize their product, and they're probably influenced by a current popular
style(consuming tea).
popularize - cause (something) to become generally liked.
c - Incorrect. It's a negative sentence due to the word 'artfully'.
artfully - cunningly or deceptively.

No such thing is mentioned in the above context.
Making profits isn't always necessarily an artful act.)
on the up and up - in a good and successful position.
up to the minute - incorporating the very latest information or developments.

No such thing is mentioned.
on the drawing board - (of an idea, scheme, or proposal) under consideration and not yet ready to
put into practice.
It can't be used to describe Arla.)
Only positive statements can possibly be TRUE, as the passage hasn't discussed the
language models critically.
Statements a and b can be inferred.

Refer to - Such language models lie behind the predictive suggestions for emails and text
messages. Gmail’s Smart Compose can complete ‘I hope this …’ with ‘… email finds you well’.
And,

56
Instances of automated journalism (sports news and financial reports, for example) are on the rise,
while explanations of the benefits from insurance companies and marketing copy likewise rely on
machine-writing technology.
That means, Today's language models estimate likelihoods (the probability of a word
appearing after a prior passage of words) for every word in their vocabulary and today’s
language models are given enormous amounts of existing writing to digest and learn from.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's a critical statement. The passage hasn't discussed any problem
that lies in the way that machine-learning and language models are trained and tested.).
There must come a positive statement in the blank.
Statements a and c are positive and in line with the main theme of the passage.
But, statement b is irrelevant. It's talking about Smaller and Larger language models.)
45.(Answer - C. n p m o
hoary - ancient and old.

laudable - deserving praise and commendation.)
Refer to - Indeed, women’s cricket has proved its ability to draw crowds — in 2017, England took on
India in the Women’s World Cup finals in front of a capacity crowd at Lord’s, while a record
international crowd witnessed Australia beat India in the T20 World Cup final in Melbourne three
years later.
From this information we can say that women cricketers are emerging as stars in their own
right and television coverage of women’s cricket has improved, forcing the cricketing
establishment to play catch up — at last.
play catch-up - If someone is playing catch-up, they are trying to equal or better someone else's
performance.
Refer to - The Marylebone Cricket Club — the sole authority vested with the power to draw up the
Codes of Laws that govern cricket since 1787 — has adopted the gender-neutral terms, “batter”
and “batters”, in place of “batsman” and “batsmen”.
That means, women cricketers have not been the victims of favouritism.
favouritism - biasness.)

57
47. (Answer - C. Both a and b
Refer to - The renaming is laudable, but this does little to make the cricket field truly
representative.
That means, the women cricketers are still neglected and they're still not getting as much
benefit as male cricketers are getting.
Statements a and b are absolutely justifying the injustice towards women cricketers.
Studies have shown that the length of the pitch slows down male pacers, making the sport less
interesting for viewers.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's talking about doing injustice to male cricketers, which is
contradictory to the main context.)
Refer to - Even though the International Cricket Council has launched ‘100% Cricket’, an annual
campaign dedicated to the promotion of women’s cricket, not much is expected to change — apart
from the semantics — because of the absence of women’s representation in decision-making
bodies.
Hence, it can be said that there's not anyone speaking or acting on behalf of women in the
determinant bodies, that's why the author is not so optimistic about some changes to happen
in women's cricket.
Statement b - Incorrect. 'absence' doesn't mean 'fewer'.
Statement c - Incorrect. This is nowhere mentioned in the passage.)
sceptical - doubtful.
revelatory - revealing something hitherto unknown.
The author has revealed the facts that show injustice towards women cricketers.
commiserative - sympathetic.
The author has been sympathetic towards women cricketers.
captious - tending to find fault.
dispirited - depressed.
No, the author hasn't been dispirited.
condemnatory - expressing strong disapproval; censorious.)

58
disillusionment - a feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as
good as one believed it to be.
Refer to - , the Second World War seemed far removed from my experience. I was taught that
fascism had been defeated, democracy and equality had won. But a different picture emerged in
my mid-20s, when I moved to east London and began working in a community for people
marginalised because of neurological disabilities. I witnessed startling poverty and exclusion, and
civic systems that seemed on the brink of collapse.
That means, the author probably witnessed fascism.

fascism - a political regime that exalts/glorifies nation and often race, above the individual.
I witnessed startling poverty and exclusion, and civic systems that seemed on the brink of
collapse.
That means, the author witnessed social disparity.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's contradictory. The author witnessed exactly the opposite.)
Refer to - And I was alarmed by the number of times, in just a few years, that I attended clients’
funerals when they died early, preventable deaths.
That shows that the author was unnerved or afraid.
Refer to - I supported clients through relentless benefits assessments with state employees who
appeared trapped in the role of hostile gatekeepers.
That shows that the author was philanthropic.
philanthropic - beneficent; a person doing good.
disenchanted - disillusioned.)
52. (Answer - B. Only a is TRUE.
a - TRUE.
Refer to - The G20 group is responsible for around 75% of global emissions, which fell significantly
last year as economies were closed down in response to Covid-19.
That means, the economic systems were shut down last year due to the pandemic.
b - FALSE.
Refer to - The Climate Transparency Report says that CO2 will go up by 4% across the G20 group
this year, having dropped 6% in 2020 due to the pandemic.
Hence the phrase 'throughout the entire world' is INCORRECT.
c - FALSE.

59
Refer to - This is mainly due to China who are responsible for around 60% of the rise, but increases
in coal are also taking place in the US and India.
China is responsible for around 60% of the rise, that means, China is the only country which
is MAJORLY accountable for the rise in coal use.
majorly - for the most part.)
Refer to - The G20 group is responsible for around 75% of global emissions, which fell significantly
last year as economies were closed down in response to Covid-19. But this year's rebound is
being powered by fossil fuel, especially coal.
Hence, the augmented use of fossil fuels like coal is certainly a factor.
Refer to - Coal use in China has surged with the country experiencing increased demand for energy
as the global economy has recovered.
Hence, the fact that the global state in terms of the production and consumption of goods has
got better, is also a factor.
Option b - INCORRECT.
This has no connection with the increased CO2 emission.)
b - FALSE.
Refer to - Coal prices are up nearly 200% from a year ago.
c - FALSE.
Refer to - According to the report, compiled by 16 research organisations and environmental
campaign groups, coal use across the G20 is projected to rise by 5% this year.
Hence, the phrase 'almost every country' is INCORRECT.
a - TRUE.
Refer to - The G20 group is responsible for around 75% of global emissions, which fell
significantly last year as economies were closed down in response to Covid-19.
blameworthy - responsible.)

60
Refer to - With the world currently around 1.1C warmer than pre-industrial times, limiting
future incremental increases is extremely challenging.
And,
The authors say that the continued use of fossil fuels is undermining efforts to rein in
temperatures.
Hence, it is difficult to limit the rise in temperature in future because the increased use of
fossil fuels is not stopping and the current temperature is already higher than that of pre-
industrial times.
Option c - Incorrect.
This is a fact. This is not a challenge to limiting the rise in temperature.)
a - Correct.
Refer to - With just two weeks left until the critical COP26 climate conference opens in Glasgow,
the task facing negotiators is stark.
around the corner - very near.
b - Correct.
Refer to - One of the key goals of the gathering is to take steps to keep the important 1.5C
temperature threshold alive and within reach.
c - Correct.
Refer to - If Glasgow is going to succeed on this question, then the countries that create the most
carbon will have to put ambitious policies into place.
That means, the countries producing the most carbon are required to fully use their abilities
and resources in order to make the objective of the conference a successfully realized one.)

61
The G20 group is responsible for around 75% of global emissions, which fell significantly last year as
economies were closed down in response to Covid-19. But this year's rebound is being powered by
fossil fuel, especially coal.
57. (Answer - D. Only b
rebound / recoil - reaction or backlash.
'cause' is the correct antonym.)
If Glasgow is going to succeed on this question, then the countries that create the most carbon will
have to put ambitious policies into place.
58.(Answer - A. Both b and c
ambitious / compulsive / determined - strongly motivated to succeed.
indifferent - having no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned.)
illuminating - informative.
factual - concerned with what is actually the case.
revealing - making interesting or significant information known.)
b - TRUE.
Refer to - Asked how he felt winning, Prof MacMillan, from Princeton University, said: "Dazed,
confused, elated, proud, sentimental, weepy - you name it. I feel all of those things right now."
c - TRUE.
Refer to - The winners will share the prize money of 10 million krona (£842,611).
a - FALSE.
Men have predominated in the list of recipients of the Nobel Prize in CHEMISTRY.
Refer to - A total of 187 individuals have received the chemistry prize since it was first awarded in
1901. Only seven of these laureates have been women.)

62
Refer to - While at Harvard University in the late 1990s, MacMillan had been working with metal
catalysts. But the types used in his research were rarely taken up by industry. The problem
was that, while the oxygen-free and moisture-free conditions demanded by some metal
catalysts were possible to achieve in the lab, this was much more difficult at large scales.
A special ambience - lab.
Option c - Incorrect. No such thing is mentioned.)
62. (Answer - C. Both b and c
dejected - unhappy.
'practical' is the antonym of 'sentimental'.)
63. (Answer - D. Only c
grantee / giftee / beneficiary - awardee.)
64.
(Answer - B. Only a
Refer to - McMillan began designing simple organic molecules (chemicals that contain carbon and
hydrogen bonded together) which could do the same job as metals, but were not destroyed by
moisture.
Moisture-proof does not mean weather-proof.
b - TRUE.
Refer to - The Nobel Committee said the technique had "taken molecular construction to an entirely
new level".
c - TRUE.
Refer to - Prof List was on holiday with his family when he heard the news: "I absolutely didn't
expect this huge surprise," adding that he "thought it was a joke" when he received the call from
Sweden.

63
out of the blue - unanticipated or unexpected.)
enlightening - informative.
narrative - a particular way of explaining or understanding events.
unfavourable - expressing or showing a lack of approval or support.)
66. (Answer - E. None of the above options
The correct arrangement is - DACB
export-parity prices - prices equivalent to the export prices.
captive - (of a facility or service) controlled by, and typically for the sole use of, an organization.)
Refer to - That does not change the fact that this average supply does not materialise at every plant
- some survive hand-to-mouth. The norm is three weeks' stocks.
hand-to-mouth - having or providing nothing to spare beyond basic necessities.

Hence, statement a is correct.
The norm is three weeks' stocks and the government is confident that there is enough coal
for three days.
Hence, statement b is correct.
Statement c - Incorrect. No such thing is mentioned. Average supply does not materialise at
every plant, doesn't mean that the plants cannot afford to have ones.)
Refer to - At the root of the shortage that now threatens load-shedding is Indian politicians'
obsession that power must be cheap. Raise petrol and diesel prices as much as you want,
but keep power prices rigidly low, never mind if these break the financial back of power

64
utilities, make them run up dues to power generators and impose a heavy debt burden on the
state governments that borrow on their behalf.
In this entire paragraph, the author is rebuking and criticizing the government's obsession of
keeping the power price low/cheap.
Hence, all statements a, b and c are CORRECT.).
Option a - Correct.
Refer to - Install smart meters, have time-of-day tariffs that rise during hours of high demand and fall
when demand abates.
Hence, setting up a structure in which different rates are applicable for use of electricity at
different times of the day, is recommended.
Option c - Correct.
Refer to - On a longer-term basis, institute open access, so that industry can buy reliable
power, paying higher prices that would still be lower than their own captive generation.
institute - to set up.

Hence, making provisions so that power can be accessed by all and can be bought, even at a
greater price, is recommended.
Option b - Incorrect.
It's not recommended.
Refer to - On a longer-term basis, institute open access, so that industry can buy reliable power,
paying higher prices that would still be lower than their own captive generation.
Hence, relying on industry's own ability to generate power, is not recommended.)
Due to the phrase 'instead of', there must come a negative statement.
Hence, all three statements are negative and contextual.
The author's main point is - NOT TO STOP RELYING ON COAL ENERGY AND NOT TO STOP
PRODUCING COAL.
Hence, a is correct.
b - Correct.

65
force majeure - an event or effect that cannot be reasonably anticipated or controlled.

Through this, the author points to natural disaster which is the main reason behind low
production of coal. It's mentioned in the last paragraph.
c - Correct.
The author is strongly against lowering the power price.)
Refer to - Right now, global gas supplies are strained, thanks to depletion of reserves in the US and
Europe, thanks to severe, extended cold spells in the winter and extra-hot summers and droughts
that shrivelled hydro-electricity generation. Step up generation of gas and hydrogen from
coal, capture the accompanying CO2 and sequester it.
Hence, Option a is absolutely CORRECT.
Option b - Incorrect. CO2 will be the byproduct. CO2 production can't be the AIM.
Option c - Incorrect. 'power' is nonspecific.)
The author has emphasised on the flexibility of power prices in the entire passage and he has
considered power to be very important and significant.
Hence, statement a and b can be his concluding statements.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's out of the context.)
73.
(Answer - E. All a, b and c
censorious - severely critical of others.

mocking - ridiculing.
consultatory - advising.)
74. (Answer - B. CBDA
outage - a period when a power supply or other service is not available or when equipment is closed
down.

66
intonation - the rise and fall of the voice in speaking.)
Refer to - Yet, during the six hours of outage, people did not fall back on SMS to communicate.
That means, public reliance on SMS has dropped drastically.
And, at the same time, people bank more on using WhatsApp and Facebook.
bank on - rely on.
Option c - Incorrect. It's nonspecific.)
Statement a - Correct.
Refer to - One reason for this is that internet access is still not adequate in remote areas in India
where they operate. But the other modes of messaging are far more popular in India.
One of the other modes of messaging is - WhatsApp, according to the passage.

Hence, statement a can absolutely be correct.
One reason for this is that internet access is still not adequate in remote areas in India where
they operate.
Hence, statement b is correct.
on hand - readily available.
Statement c - Correct.
Refer to - SMS is now used only for receiving ‘one time passwords’ for making online transactions.
Banks, particularly, are still quite dependent on SMS.)
Refer to - Social media technologies are far more enabling in creative communication with
pictures, emojis, voice messages and group texting and calling. The SMS, thus, appears relatively
archaic.
That means, traditional messaging services are not as interactive as social media messaging
services.

67
Option c - Correct.
Refer to - Customer behaviour during the outage also points to the way technology engenders
dependence.
That means, people are heavily and increasingly leaning on social media technologies.
lean on - to depend.
engender - to cause.
Option b - Incorrect.
It's factually incorrect.
Refer to - According to some experts in psychology and communications, emojis may become a
new form of language, or at least an integral part of communications. Verbal, face-to-face
communication allowed people to factor in tone of voice or body language. Even purely voice
messages allowed the receiver to discern the intonations of the voice of the speaker.
Hence, it can't be said that in purely spoken messages on the digital medium, the only way to
communicate emotions may be the emojis and the emoticons, as emojis are written not
spoken. Besides, there is another form of communication too.)
According to the entire passage, statements b and c can be absolutely TRUE.

Statements b and c are related to each other.
Statement a - Incorrect. There is no such information.)
These both statements are in line with the main theme of the passage.
In statement b he has mentioned the addictive nature of social media.
But, statement c is critical.

The author hasn't criticised the social media dependence, in the passage, in fact, he praised
it. He just expressed the real scenario. He hasn't given any suggestions.

68
Hence, it can't be the concluding statement.)
Illuminating - helping to clarify or explain something.
Reasoned - logical.
Reprimanding - rebuking.
No such tone has been expressed.)

69
CHAPTER-2
COLUMN BASED
Direction(1-4): In the following question, a table is given with two columns. In column I, three
sentences are given with one blank in each of them. In column II, three phrases / phrasal
verbs are given. You've to choose the correct pairs of the statement and the phrase / phrasal
verb that will fit in that particular sentence correctly and make that sentence contextually
correct.
1.
Column I Column II
A. The findings D. call the shots

________________ the
legitimacy of the proceedings.
B. Increasingly in shaping our E. call into question

foreign policy priorities it is the
media houses which
_____________.
C. I cannot _____________ F. call to mind

where I have seen you.
A. AE, BF and CE
B. AD, BE and CF
C. AE, BD and CF
D. AF, BE and CD
E. None of the above options
2.
Column I Column II
A. If the management were D. making a day of it

to tackle this issue, it might
find that it was
_________________.
B. On certain foreign policy E. pushing at an open

issues, Switzerland and door
Bulgaria have a track
record of
_______________.

70
C. The City was F. making common cause

_______________, and
encouraging citizens to
bring a packed lunch and
enjoy the show.
A. AE, BF and CD
B. AD, BE and CF
C. AE, BD and CF
D. AF, BE and CD
3.
Column I Column II
A. The council continued to D. push ahead

__________ better
management of water
resources.
B. The government is E. push for

trying to __________ a
package of measures to
combat organized crime.
C. He promised to F. push through

__________ with
economic reform.
A. AE, BF and CD
B. AD, BE and CF
C. AE, BD and CF
D. AF, BE and CD
4.
Column I Column II
A. Many of the original D. fall away

fans began to
___________ as the new
audience grew.

71
B. If challenged, however, E. fall back on

your only recourse is to
____________ the
manufacturer's guarantee.
C. He didn't expect F. fall for

Duncan to __________ a
cheap trick like that.
A. AE, BF and CD
B. AD, BE and CF
C. AE, BD and CF
D. AF, BE and CD
Direction(5-6): The following question carries a sentence with four words marked in bold.
Some of the bold words may contain an error. The sentence is followed by a table with two
columns. The first column, 'I', contains the list of bold words, and the second column, 'II', lists
the suggested corrections. You've to choose the best alternative among the four given
options. If all words are correct, mark E as your answer.
5. As a matter of fact, emancipatory education is the trepidation to live meaningfully, creatively and
woodenly; it is the ability to identify and disdain diverse ideologies.
Column I Column II
A. trepidation E. keenness
B. woodenly F. graciously
C. disdain G. debunk
D. ideologies H. chronicles
A. ABGH B. EFGD C. AFGD D. EBCH E. None of the above options
6. With heedful learning, poor teacher-taught ratio, pathetic infrastructure, tidy classrooms and
discomfited teachers, it is not possible to expect even the slightest trace of intellectually stimulating
and ethically churning education.

72
Column I Column II
A. heedful E. rote
B. tidy F. haywire
C. discomfited G. bucked up
D. churning H. exploitative
A. EFCD B. ABGH C. EBGH D. AFCD E. None of the above options
Direction(7-10): In the following question, a table is given with two columns. In column I, three
sentences are given with one blank in each of them. In column II, three phrases / phrasal
verbs are given. You've to choose the correct pairs of the statement and the phrase / phrasal
verb that will fit in that particular sentence correctly and make that sentence contextually
correct.
7.
Column I Column II
A. That is the tragically horrifying D. coming of age

history of religion
_______________.
B. They are now _____________ E. through the ages

that exceeds the average life
expectancy in the countries where
they live.
C. These people are the adults of F. of an age

tomorrow and are
_______________.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BF and CD
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AF, BE and CD
8.

73
Column I Column II
A. There was no point in calling D. take it

her attention to the implications
of her statement, she would
only ____________.
B. In this particular case, in E. take it ill

London, I __________, none of
these guys left any indication.
C. Whenever you feel your F. take five

brain doing the stress sizzle,
____________.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AF, BE and CD
9.
Column I Column II
A. I just hope though that the D. take away

kids ___________ their mother.
B. I really wanted a milkshake E. take in

and ordered one to
___________.
C. The book attempts to F. take after

___________ a too broad
canvas.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AF, BD and CE
10.
Column I Column II

74
A. Julie ____________ the D. picked at

small amount of food she had
put on her plate.
B. The soldiers were E. picked off

___________ by snipers.
C. I was always quite fat as a F. picked on

child, I used to get teased
about it and ___________.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AF, BD and CE
Direction(11-14): In the following question, a table is given with two columns. In column I,
three sentences are given with one blank in each of them. In column II, three phrases /
phrasal verbs are given. You've to choose the correct pairs of the statement and the phrase /
phrasal verb that will fit in that particular sentence correctly and make that sentence
contextually correct.
11.
Column I Column II
A. But the car was looking increasingly D. the long and the
______________, despite continuous short of it.
design improvements.
B. I'm just somebody serving food and E. long in the tooth

that's __________________.
C. Life's short enough without worrying F. an early grave.

yourself into ________________.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BE and CF
D. AF, BD and CE

75
12.
Column I Column II
A. She talks about continually D. passing the time

________________ to ensure that of day
they are home by 7pm.
B. How much of his life was spent on E. watching the time

that chair ____________________?
C. It was empty except for the owner F. watching the

who was __________________ with world go by
some of his acquaintances.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BF and CD
C. AD, BE and CF
D. AF, BD and CE
13.
Column I Column II
A. By the time he was finished, D. going about

the sun was up and the villagers
were _____________ their daily
activities.
B. What are the odds of life E. coming about

________________ by sheer
chance?
C. When they first told us that F. falling about

story we were all
_______________ laughing.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BF and CD
C. AD, BE and CF
D. AF, BD and CE

76
14.
Column I Column II
A. I want to _____________ D. look forward to

on my friend and see how
she's doing.
B. As she lived and worked in E. look out

the rainforest of Ecuador, she
had to ____________ for
poisonous snakes, insects and
plants.
C. The carnival parade on F. look in

Sunday afternoon is
something we
______________.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BF and CD
C. AD, BE and CF
D. AF, BD and CE
Direction(15-17): The following question carries a sentence with four words marked in bold.
Some of the bold words may contain an error. The sentence is followed by a table with two
columns. The first column, 'I', contains the list of bold words, and the second column, 'II', lists
the suggested corrections. You've to choose the best alternative among the four given
options. If all words are correct, mark E as your answer.
15. The pandemic exposed and truncated the systemic and deeply entrenched socio-economic
inequities in Indian society, thus increasing the discrete vulnerability and marginality.
Column I Column II
A. truncated E. exacerbated
B. entrenched F. superficial
C. discrete G. consequential
D. marginality H. indulgence

77
A. ABCH
B. EBGD
C. EFCD
D. AFCH
16. Besides improving record maintenance, the demeanour of credible assessment, transfer of
credits and award of degrees with similar quality levels across institutions will require ethereal funds
both for detainment as well as IT infrastructure.
Column I Column II
A. demeanour E. conduct
B. credible F. underhand
C. ethereal G. substantial
D. detainment H. manpower
A. EBGH
B. ABCD
C. AFCH
D. EBCH
17. The Indian economy is in gaiety; at a time of deep slump and rising unemployment, the signals
camouflaging from the government towards Indian businesses are deeply feckless.
Column I Column II
A. gaiety E. doldrums
B. slump F. acclivity
C. camouflaging G. emanating
D. feckless H. worrying
A. ABGH
B. AFCD
C. EBGH
D. EFCD

78
Direction(18-20): Each of the questions below contains a sentence with three blanks,
indicating a preposition, a word and an idiom are missing. The sentence is then followed by a
table containing three prepositions, words and idioms in each column. You have to choose
the correct combination of preposition, word and idiom that'll fit in those blanks respectively.
18. It is about the thousands of highly-qualified young people ______________ ___ ____________
jobs in Germany, France, Netherlands, Belgium and elsewhere across the EU.
A. making their mark D. for G. noteworthy
B. being slow off the mark E. in H. slaphappy
C. marking time F. about I. conspicuous
A. BDG
B. CFH
C. AEG
D. CFI
19. I got a couple of friends to pray with me ________ my foot and just had to ________ that God
would _______________!
A. on D. surmise G. see me right
B. about E. trust H. look me up and down
C. for F. entrust I. watch the time
A. BEG
B. AFH
C. CFH
D. ADI
20. His famous novel begins _______ a couple of paragraphs which, ___________, _________ the
most mesmerising start of any novel ever written.
A. by D. on the money G. integrate

79
B. through E. for my money H. constitute
C. with F. in full view I. tweak
A. BFH
B. ADG
C. CEH
D. BEI
21.
Column I Column II
A. So far as we could tell, D. break his fall

he wore no wire to
_____________.
B. it was great for me to E. break his serve

_____________ in the first
game’
C. It really will not F. break his back

______________ if he
smiles around this place.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BE and CD
D. AF, BD and CE
22.
Column I Column II
A. We never D. sat on his hands

______________ and
learned from his

80
experiences.
B. He lost office largely E. sat at his feet

because his traditional
supporter
_________________ and
stayed at home.
C. He finally reached him F. sat on his tail

and _________________
for miles even as he
switched lanes.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BE and CD
D. AF, BD and CE
23.
Column I Column II
A. When a player __________ D. gives on to

the entire game, the scene
afterwards at home can be pretty
ugly.
B. It's this invasion of pollen that E. brings on

__________ serious allergies.
C. A glass door ____________ a F. sits out

roomful of fruit and vegetables.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BE and CD
D. AF, BD and CE
24.
Column I Column II
A. They __________ fossils D. fell to

of an animal about the size

81
of a turkey.
B. It _________ me to write E. dug up

to Shephard.
C. He openly F. broke with

____________ him when he
defined China-Taiwan
relations as ‘state-to-state’.
A. AD, BE and CF
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BE and CD
D. AF, BD and CE
Direction(25-26): Each of the questions below contains a sentence with three blanks,
indicating a preposition, a word and an idiom are missing. The sentence is then followed by a
table containing three prepositions, words and idioms in each column. You have to choose
the correct combination of preposition, word and idiom that'll fit in those blanks respectively.
25. ‘So, ________________ here: what _________, if any, should be applied _____ selecting
names?’
A. a penny for your thoughts D. yardstick G. in
B. in for a penny, in for a E. convention H. for

pound
C. pennies from heaven F. measure I. by
A. ADG
B. BEI
C. CFH
D. BDG
26. I'm just _____________ really, trying to ______ some things out _____ myself.
A. ruffle my feathers D. sort G. by

82
B. thinking aloud E. restore H. for
C. getting under my skin F. straighten I. to
A. BEH
B. AEH
C. CFI
D. BDH
27.
Column I Column II
A. The cabin crew smoothed their D. brushed down

hair and ______________ their
crumpled uniforms.
B. The judge ____________ his E. carried through

pleas for leniency.
C. Policy blueprints are rarely F. brushed off

_____________ perfectly.
A. AF, BD and CE
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
28.
Column I Column II
A. It would be far better to D. set back

admit the problem openly and
_____________ tackling it.
B. The bank expected to E. set about

______________ about $700
million for restructuring.
C. If revolutionary new F. set aside

therapies are delayed or
outlawed, we could be

83
_____________ for years, if

not decades.
A. AF, BD and CE
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
three sentences are given with one blank in each of them. In column II, three phrasal verbs
are given. You've to choose the correct pairs of the statement and the phrasal verb that will fit
in that particular sentence correctly and make that sentence contextually correct.
29.
Column I Column II
A. He has no idea what the D. see out

day will ___________.
B. If he dies childless he is to E. bring forth

__________ his share of the
estate to his brother.
C. We feared the roof would F. make over

not __________ another harsh
winter.
A. AF, BD and CE
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
30.
Column I Column II
A. We have a little bit D. put back

__________ in the bank.
B. They have E. put in

84
____________ the film's

release date to
September.
C. I've got a bit of a cold,’ F. put aside

she ___________, wiping
her nose.
A. AF, BD and CE
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
31.
Column I Column II
A. The corruption in government is making D. wave a white flag.

voters ___________.
B. I have no idea how he solved that E. cut the Gordian knot

impossible equation, but he can
______________.
C. We've been in negotiations for weeks, but F. see red

it looks like the other company might finally
be ready to _______________.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AE, BF and CD

85
32.
Column I Column II
A. I'm not surprised that Tom didn't come D. green-eyed

to the rally—he's too ______________ to
defend his beliefs in public.
B. An anonymous online review of the E. tongue-tied

restaurant that looks like it may have
been written by a ____________
competitor.
C. He may be _____________ or F. yellow-bellied

nervous, confused or wanting in
intelligence.
A. AF, BD and CE
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
33.
Column I Column II
A. Each written piece has been D. checked off

_____________ for errors.
B. These things are _____________ like E. checked into

supermarket lists in their heads.
C. By the last night we were so fed-up we F. checked over

just _______________ a five-star hotel and
had a spa.
A. AF, BD and CE
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BD and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
34.

86
Column I Column II
A. He wants to play more to help him D. carry over to

____________ the most painful loss that he
had experienced.
B. The better I play, the more it will E. blow over

______________ to the World Cup.
C. This will all ___________ soon, and then F. get over

I'll be back to normal.
A. AF, BD and CE
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BD and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
E. None of the above option. s
35.
Column I Column II
A. The judge ________________ D. caught on

his pleas for leniency.
B. He visited a Kyoto temple, E. brushed off

_______________ a professor
from his alma mater in Kyoto and
paid tribute to a Japanese author.
C. Yet his principles did not let him F. called on

stay in Berlin once the censors
______________ to his tricks.
A. AE, BF and CD
B. AD, BE and CF
C. AF, BD and CE
D. AE, BD and CF

87
36.
Column I Column II
A. After answering a few more of our D. come into

questions he got up to ___________
the patient and then left the house.
B. I attempted to __________ E. choke down

supper.
C. The training is for staff who F. check on

____________ contact with the
public.
A. AE, BF and CD
B. AD, BE and CF
C. AF, BD and CE
D. AE, BD and CF
37.
Column I Column II
A. We've all moved on from that D. flying off the handle

problem, so there's no use
___________________.
B. I know you're upset, but there's no E. going cold turkey

point _____________________ like
that; it was just an honest mistake.
C. I tried quitting smoking for several F. flogging a dead horse

years, but I guess
____________________ and relying
on my own willpower are the only
options.

88
A. AE, BD and CF
B. AF, BD and CE
C. AD, BE and CF
D. AF, BE and CD
38.
Column I Column II
A. In Los Angeles, waiters trying to D. a dime a dozen

become famous actors are
_________________.
B. To help you decide where to go, E. a knuckle sandwich

we've picked out
____________________ of top
events between April and
September.
C. If you keep mocking me, you're F. a baker's dozen

going to get ___________________!
A. AE, BD and CF
B. AF, BD and CE
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AF, BE and CD
39.
Column I Column II
A. They instructed an attorney to D. face up to

_______________ a sales
agreement.
B. She's going to have to E. get by

________________ the fact that
he's not going to marry her.
C. He had just enough money to F. draw up

___________.

89
A. AE, BD and CF
B. AF, BD and CE
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AF, BE and CD
40.
Column I Column II
A. I just have to D. get on with

_____________ the first five
minutes of my speech, and
then I’ll be fine.
B. If you make some coffee I'll E. get through

_____________ the washing
up.
C. I don't think he will F. give in to

______________ your
requests if you keep pestering
him.
A. AE, BD and CF
B. AF, BD and CE
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AF, BE and CD
41.
Column I Column II
A. Wow, Sharon, this is a D. tickled pink

______________ pie, I never knew this
pie could taste so good!
B. Don't be so ____________, the world E. blue eyed

90
is an unforgiving place!
C. My family loves my fiancé as much as F. blue-ribbon

I do, so they were just ______________
to hear that we're getting married.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AD, BF and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
42.
Column I Column II
A. As ________________, the D. a man of substance

professor could easily speak for hours
on the works of Shakespeare.
B. In those days, a station master was E. a man of straw

_________________ due to his
earnings, in the community.
C. You don’t need to be frightened of F. a man of letters

him — he’s _________________.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BD and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
43.
Column I Column II
A. Derek came over to see how we were D. going over

____________ with our repairs.
B. It was then that he began considering his E. getting on

options, ___________ possible emergency
landing sites in his mind.
C. The air was filled with the blaring sounds F. going off

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of alarms ____________.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BD and CE
D. AE, BF and CD
44.
Column I Column II
A. It was the most liberal decision D. handed down

ever ___________ by a football
authority.
B. During the heated argument, she E. laid into

___________ that she had cancer
and walked away.
C. The three armed men advanced F. let out

towards Erik, attempting to surround
him first before they ___________
their attack.
A. AF, BE and CD
B. AE, BD and CF
C. AF, BD and CE
D. AD, BF and CE
Direction(45-46): In the following question, two columns are given, containing a connector
and three phrases each. In the first column, the phrases are A, B and C and in the second
column, the phrases are D, E and F. You have to make meaningful sentences using the
connectors and from the phrases of both the columns. There are five options, four of which
display the sequence(s) in which the phrases with the connectors can be joined to form a
grammatically and contextually correct sentence. If none of the options given forms a correct
sentence after combination, select ‘None of these’ as your answer.
45. although

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A. The war caused destruction and death. D. I begged him not to.
B. He decided to go. E. There are generations of hatred between

the two communities.
C. She'll be coming tonight. F. I don't know exactly when.
A. Both A-E and C-F

B. Only B-D
C. Both B-D and C-F
D. Only C-F
46. therefore
A. The Ganges’s rejuvenation is not just a D. They will need to wear suitable footwear
political task; it must be reimagined as a and a sun hat or raincoat, depending on the
public commitment. weather.
B. The children will be walking to the E. We had to abandon the project.

cathedral.
C. We were unable to get funding. F. The social ecosystem around the river
needs to be transformed.
A. All A-F, B-D and C-E

B. Both B-D and C-E
C. Only A-F
D. Both A-F and C-E
Direction(47-48): In the following questions two columns are given containing three phrases
each. A phrase from the first column may or may not connect with another phrase from the
second column to make a grammatically and contextually correct sentence. Each question
has five options, four of which display the sequence(s) in which the phrases can be joined to

93
form a grammatically and contextually correct sentence. If none of the options given forms a
correct sentence after being combined, mark (E) as your answer.
47.
Column I Column II
A. On the operational side, power plants are D. India to import around 200 million tonnes
required by the Central Electricity Authority (mt) of coal.
(CEA) to maintain
B. The persistent non-payment of coal sale E. a minimum stock of 15 to 30 days of

dues by power plants to coal companies has normative coal consumption.
created
C. The persistent shortage of coal production F. a serious strain on their working capital
by the privatised and captive mines forced position.
A. Only A-F and B-E

B. All A-E, B-F and C-D
C. All A-D, B-E and C-F
D. Only B-F and C-D
E. None of the above option
48.
Column I Column II
A. Of course, vaccination has been proven to D. to bolster health infrastructure.

reduce disease severity and India is now on
track
B. Covid’s current retreat also offers a crucial E. to minimising deaths.

window
C. Ensuring that future surges don’t overrun F. to inoculate all adults.

hospitals is key
A. Only A-F and B-E

B. All A-E, B-F and C-D
C. All A-F, B-D and C-E
D. Only B-F and C-D

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ANSWER
1. (Answer - C. AE, BD and CF
call into question - cast doubt on something.
call the shots - take the initiative in deciding how something should be done.
call someone or something to mind - cause one to think of someone or something.)
2.(Answer - A. AE, BF and CD
push at an open door - have no difficulty in accomplishing a task.
make common cause - unite in order to achieve a shared aim.
make a day of it - devote a whole day to an activity, especially an enjoyable one.)
push ahead - proceed with or continue a course of action.
push for - demand something persistently.
push through - get a proposed measure completed or accepted quickly.)
4.(Answer - B. AD, BE and CF
fall for something - be deceived by something.
fall back on something - have recourse to something when in difficulty.
fall away - gradually decrease in number, amount, intensity, or quality.)
5.(Answer - B. EFGD
trepidation - a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that may happen.

keenness - willingness.
woodenly - stiffly or awkwardly.

graciously - gracefully.

95
disdain - consider unworthy of one's consideration.

debunk - expose the falseness or hollowness of (an idea or belief).
chronicle - history.)
6.(Answer - A. EFCD
heedful - mindful.
rote learning - memorization technique based on repetition.
tidy - orderly.
haywire - chaotic.
discomfited - frustrated.
bucked up - encouraged.
ethically churning - something that's ethically intriguing and interesting.
exploitative - making use of a situation or treating others unfairly in order to gain an advantage or
benefit.)
7. (Answer - B. AE, BF and CD
through the ages - throughout history.
of an age - old enough to be able or expected to do something.

(Another meaning - (of two or more people or things) of a similar age.)
come of age - reach adult status (in UK law at 18, formerly 21).
8. (Answer - B. AE, BD and CF
take it - assume.
take something ill - dislike something done or said.
take five - have a short break.)
9.(Answer - D. AF, BD and CE
take away - buy food at a cafe or restaurant for eating elsewhere.
take after - resemble a parent or ancestor.
take in - include or encompass something.)

96
10. (Answer - A. AD, BE and CF
pick at - eat food in small amounts or without much appetite.
pick off - shoot a member of a group, aiming carefully from a distance.
pick on - to bully or victimize.)
the long and the short of it - all that can or need be said.
long in the tooth - rather old.
an early grave - a premature or untimely death.)
12.(Answer - B. AE, BF and CD
pass the time of the day - exchange greetings or casual remarks.
watch the time - ensure that one is aware of the time in order to avoid being late.
watch the world go by - spend time observing other people going about their business.)
13.(Answer - C. AD, BE and CF
go about - begin or carry on with an activity.
come about - happen; take place.
fall about - to laugh uncontrollably.)
14.(Answer - A. AF, BE and CD
look in - make a short visit or call.
look out - be vigilant and take notice.
look forward to - await something eagerly.)
15.(Answer - B. EBGD
The pandemic exposed and exacerbated the systemic and deeply entrenched socio-economic

97
inequities in Indian society, thus increasing manifold the consequential vulnerability and
marginality.
exacerbate - make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse.

truncate - to reduce.
entrenched - established.
superficial - appearing to be true or real only until examined more closely.
discrete - individually separate and distinct.

consequential - following as a result or effect.
marginality - the quality of being narrow.

indulgence - satisfaction.)
16.(Answer - A. EBGH
Besides improving record maintenance, the conduct of credible assessment, transfer of credits and
award of degrees with similar quality levels across institutions will require substantial funds both for
manpower as well as IT infrastructure.
demeanour - outward behaviour.

conduct - organizing and carrying out.
credible - reliable.
underhand - acting or done in a secret or dishonest way.
ethereal - extremely delicate and light in a way that seems not to be of this world.
substantial - of considerable importance, size, or worth.
detainment - custody.
manpower - the number of people working or available for work or service.)
17. (Answer - C. EBGH
The Indian economy is in doldrums; at a time of deep slump and rising unemployment, the signals
camouflaging from the government towards Indian businesses are deeply feckless.
doldrums - a state or period of stagnation or depression.

gaiety - the state or quality of being light-hearted or cheerful.
slump - a sudden severe or prolonged fall in the price, value, or amount of something.
acclivity - rise.
emanate - originate from; be produced by..
feckless - lacking initiative or strength of character; irresponsible.)

98
18. (Answer - C. AEG
make one's mark - Attain recognition or distinction.
be slow off the mark - Be slow in responding to a situation or understanding something.

mark time - (of troops) march on the spot without moving forward.
noteworthy - important and significant.
slaphappy - cheerfully casual in a careless or irresponsible way.

conspicuous - clearly visible.)
19.(Answer - A. BEG
surmise - suppose that something is true without having evidence to confirm it.
entrust - assign the responsibility for doing something to (someone).
see someone right - make sure that a person is appropriately rewarded or looked after.
look someone up and down - scrutinize someone carefully.
watch the time - ensure that one is aware of the time in order to avoid being late.)
20. (Answer - C. CEH
for my money - in my opinion.
on the money - accurate; correct.

in full view - clearly visible.
These two idioms don't make sense.)
21. (Answer - A. AD, BE and CF
break one's fall - prevent someone from hitting the ground heavily after a fall.
break one's serve - win a game in a tennis match against an opponent's service.
break one's back - put great effort into achieving something.)

99
22.(Answer - B. AE, BD and CF
sit at one's feet - be someone's pupil or follower.
sit on one's hands - take no action.
sit on one's tail - drive extremely close behind another vehicle, typically while waiting for a chance
to overtake.)
23.(Answer - C. AF, BE and CD
sit out something - not take part in a particular event or activity.
bring on - Cause something, typically something unpleasant, to occur.
give on to - (of a window, door, corridor, etc.) overlook or lead into something.)
24.(Answer - B. AE, BD and CF
dig up - extract something from the ground by breaking up and moving earth.
fall to - become the duty or responsibility of someone.
break with - quarrel or end relations with someone.)
25.(Answer - A. ADG
a penny for your thoughts - Used to ask someone what they are thinking about.
in for a penny, in for a pound - Used to express someone's intention to see an undertaking
through, however much time, effort, or money this entails.
pennies for heaven - Unexpected benefits, especially financial ones.
yardstick - criteria.)
26.(Answer - D. BDH
think aloud - Express one's thoughts as soon as they occur.
ruffle one's feathers - to annoy one.
get under one's skin - to irritate or upset someone.)

100
27. (Answer - C. AD, BF and CE
brush off - dismiss someone or something in an abrupt way.
brush down - clean or neaten someone or something using one's hands or a brush.
crumpled - crushed to form creases and wrinkles.
carry through - put a plan or idea into effect.)
28. (Answer - D. AE, BF and CD
set about - start doing something with vigour or determination.
set aside - save or keep something, typically money or time, for a particular purpose.
set back - delay or impede the progress of someone or something.)
29.(Answer - D. AE, BF and CD
see out - Last until or reach the end of a period of time.
bring forth - Produce or give rise to something.
makeover - Transfer the possession of something to someone.)
30. (Answer - A. AF, BD and CE
put back - Reschedule a planned event to a later time or date.
put in - Interrupt in a conversation or discussion.
put aside - Save money for future use.)
31. (Answer - A. AF, BE and CD
see red - to become angry.
cut the Gordian knot - to solve a very challenging or daunting problem decisively.
wave a white flag - to offer a sign of surrender or defeat; to yield or give in.)
32.(Answer - A. AF, BD and CE

101
yellow-bellied - cowardly or easily scared.
tongue-tied - find it difficult to express yourself, usually because you are nervous.
green-eyed - envious or jealous.)
33.(Answer - C. AF, BD and CE
check off something - tick or otherwise mark an item on a list to show that it has been dealt with.
check into - register one's arrival at a hotel.
check over something - inspect or examine something thoroughly.)
34.(Answer - C. AF, BD and CE
carry over (to) - extend beyond the original area of application.
get over - recover from an ailment or an upsetting or startling experience.
blow over - fade away without serious consequences.)
catch on - understand what is meant or how to do something.
brush off - dismiss someone or something in an abrupt way.
call on - pay a short visit.)
36.(Answer - B. AD, BE and CF
come into - reach or be brought to a specified situation or result.
choke down - swallow something with difficulty.
check on - verify, ascertain, or monitor the state or condition of someone or something.)
37. (Answer - B. AF, BD and CE
fly off the handle - lose one's temper suddenly and unexpectedly.
flog a dead horse - waste energy on a lost cause or a situation that cannot be changed.

102
go cold turkey - to stop doing or using something abruptly and completely.)
38. (Answer - C. AD, BF and CE
a dime a dozen - so abundant or common as to hold little or no value.
a knuckle sandwich - a punch in the mouth.
a baker's dozen - thirteen of something.)
39.(Answer - B. AF, BD and CE
draw up - prepare a plan, agreement, or other document in detail.
get by - manage with difficulty to live or accomplish something.
face up to - confront and deal with or accept a difficult or unpleasant task, fact, or situation.)
40. (Answer - A. AE, BD and CF
get through - pass a difficult or testing experience or period.
get on with sth - to start or continue doing something, especially work.
give in (to sth) - to finally agree to something that someone wants after first refusing.)
41. (Answer - A. AF, BE and CD
blue-ribbon - of outstanding quality.

blue eyed - having or representing childlike innocence.
tickled pink - very happy or amused.)
42. (Answer - C. AF, BD and CE
A man of letters - scholar or erudite.

A man of substance - rich, wealthy and influential.
A man of straw - weak and cowardly.)
get on - perform or make progress in a specified way.

go over - consider, examine, or check something.

103
go off - (of an alarm) begin to sound.)
44. (Answer - D. AD, BF and CE
hand down - announce something, especially a judgement or sentence, formally or publicly.

let out - reveal a piece of information.
lay into - attack someone violently with words or blows.)
45. (Answer - C. Both B-D and C-F)
46. (Answer - A. All A-F, B-D and C-E)

47. (Answer - B. All A-E, B-F and C-D)
48. (Answer - C. All A-F, B-D and C-E)
CHAPTER-3
CLOZE TEST
Direction(1-6): In the following passage, some of the words have been made bold, each of
which is preceded by a letter. Find the suitable word from the options given below that could
replace the bold word so as to make the paragraph meaningful. If no replacement is required,
choose (E) as your answer.
There has been _____M_____momentous retrogression in the country’s agricultural development

since Independence, from a food-deficit country to a country ____N____symbiotic in food.
However, the Green Revolution also led to water-logging, soil erosion, groundwater depletion and
the _____O_____proficiency of agriculture. Current policies are still based on the “deficit” mindset
of the 1960s. The _____P_____procurement, subsidies and water policies are biased towards rice

104
and wheat. Three crops (rice, wheat and sugarcane) corner 75 to 80% of irrigated water.
______Q______Commonality of cropping patterns towards millets, pulses, oilseeds, horticulture is
needed for more equal ______R_____disjointedness of water, sustainable and climate-resilient
agriculture.

1. M
a. noteworthy progress
b. significant slump
c. notable headway
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and c D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required

2. N
a. self-standing
b. self-abnegating
c. self-sustaining
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and c D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
However, the Green Revolution also led to water-logging, soil erosion, groundwater depletion and
the _____O_____proficiency of agriculture. Current policies are still based on the “deficit” mindset
of the 1960s.
3. O
a. unsustainability
b. productivity
c. planning
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required
The _____P_____procurement, subsidies and water policies are biased towards rice and wheat.
Three crops (rice, wheat and sugarcane) corner 75 to 80% of irrigated water.
4. P
a. exhaustion
b. attenuation
c. lessening

105
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required

agriculture.
5. Q
a. Diversification
b. Variegation
c. Correspondence
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Only c E. No replacement required

agriculture.
6. R
a. dispensation
b. apportioning
c. issuance
A. Both b and c B. Only b C. Only b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
Playing football is like breathing for many people, and just as they don’t _____M_____give air to the
act of breathing, we often don’t think about where we are playing either. This thought came to my
mind after watching Netflix’s _____N____epitome Concrete Football during the first lockdown in
2020. The documentary looked at the concrete football “courts” in Paris and its surrounding
communities, and _____O_____depicted what playing football in public grounds was like. It
explored ideas regarding the _____P_____concoction of football fields as public spaces in
______Q______promptly quashing cities, and others around issues of access in deciding how one
plays.

106
Playing football is like breathing for many people, and just as they don’t _____M_____give air to the
act of breathing, we often don’t think about where we are playing either.
7. M
a. give a second thought to
b. give a good account of
c. give a darn about
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Only b E. No replacement required
This thought came to my mind after watching Netflix’s _____N____epitome Concrete Football
during the first lockdown in 2020.
8. N
a. documentary
b. docudrama
c. infotainment
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and c D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
The documentary looked at the concrete football “courts” in Paris and its surrounding communities,
and _____O_____depicted what playing football in public grounds was like.
9. O
a. cached
b. shrouded
c. deluded
It explored ideas regarding the _____P_____concoction of football fields as public spaces in

plays.
10. P
a. sustainability
b. personalty
c. tangibility
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required

107
It explored ideas regarding the _____P_____concoction of football fields as public spaces in

plays.
11. Q
a. rapidly urbanising
b. swiftly gasifying
c. speedily contriving
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
Direction(12-16): In the following passage, some of the words/phrases have been made bold,
each of which is preceded by a letter. Find the suitable word(s)/phrase(s) from the options
given below that could replace the bold word/phrase as to make the paragraph meaningful. If
no replacement is required, choose (E) as your answer.
The distorted base of last year’s ____M____emancipative countrywide confinement has

______N_____appallingly ingested the challenges _____O_____whipped up the second wave of
Covid-19 in India in the first quarter of the current financial year. India’s real GDP has expanded by a
record-high 20.1 per cent (year-on-year) in the first quarter on the low base.
______P______Consequently, a more unbefitting appraisal of the real recovery can be achieved
by _____Q_____looking through a pre-Covid lens — that is, comparing the first quarter of 2021-22
with the first quarter of 2019-20.

______N_____appallingly ingested the challenges _____O_____shaped through the second
wave of Covid-19 in India in the first quarter of the current financial year.
12. M
a. restrictive nationwide lockdown
b. standpat comprehensive restrictions
c. constrictive extensive lockdown
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required

______N_____appallingly ingested the challenges _____O_____shaped through the second
wave of Covid-19 in India in the first quarter of the current financial year.
13. N
a. expectedly obscured

108
b. unsurprisingly beclouded
c. obviously curtained
A. Both b and c B. Both a and b C. Only b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required

______N_____appallingly ingested the challenges _____O_____whipped up the second wave of
Covid-19 in India in the first quarter of the current financial year.
14. O
a. wrought by
b. caused by
c. brought about
A. Both a and b B. Both b and c C. Only a D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required

15. P
a. However, a more appropriate assessment
b. Although, a more apposite evaluation
c. While, a more undue estimation
A. Only a B. Both a and b C. Only b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required

16. Q
a. cutting through
b. looking away
c. bringing forth
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. No replacement required

109
Even though activists have made several arguments _____M_____in support of the veracity of
capital punishment as a deterrent, the death penalty is still repeatedly proposed by political parties in
an attempt to deflect attention from the structural and systemic challenges. India’s anti-rape laws are
already stringent; _____N_____applying potent incentives in place would require more than
_____O_____telling moves. These would involve addressing the lacunae on multiple fronts: shoddy
investigation, _____P_____the dearth of hollowness among the police and the public about the
dangers of ‘instant justice’ and, crucially, _____Q_____the integrated parallelism of gender and
economics fuelling such crimes.
Even though activists have made several arguments _____M_____in support of the veracity of
capital punishment as a deterrent, the death penalty is still repeatedly proposed by political parties in
an attempt to deflect attention from the structural and systemic challenges.
17. M
a. in opposition to the efficacy
b. in anticipation of the effectiveness
c. at odds with the dereliction
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Only b E. No replacement required
India’s anti-rape laws are already stringent; _____N_____applying potent incentives in place
would require more than _____O_____telling moves.
18. N
a. implementing efficacious fillips
b. introducing feckless hindrances
c. putting effective deterrents
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only c D. Both a and b E. No replacement required
India’s anti-rape laws are already stringent; _____N_____applying potent incentives in place
would require more than _____O_____telling moves.
19. O
a. symbolic gestures
b. emblematic signs
c. literal measures

110
These would involve addressing the lacunae on multiple fronts: shoddy investigation,
_____P_____the dearth of hollowness among the police and the public about the dangers of
‘instant justice’ and, crucially, _____Q_____the integrated parallelism of gender and economics
fuelling such crimes.
20. P
A. the lack of sensitization
B. the profusion of aesthesia
C. the want of origination
These would involve addressing the lacunae on multiple fronts: shoddy investigation,
_____P_____the dearth of hollowness among the police and the public about the dangers of
‘instant justice’ and, crucially, _____Q_____the integrated parallelism of gender and economics
fuelling such crimes.
21. Q
a. the enclosed correspondence
b. the embedded inconsistency
c. the deep-rooted emancipation
A. Only c B. Only b C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required
Indian children have been “locked out” of school for almost a year and a half. This lockout, one of the
longest in the world, has _____M_____paved the way for their lives and the country’s fragile
schooling system. As primary and upper-primary schools finally begin to reopen, it is important to
______N______set about with melioration and think about how to repair it.
If online children had a hard time ______O_____going down, the rest (“offline children”) were
mostly left to _____P_____drift away or sink. In rural areas, nearly half of offline children were not
studying at all at the time of the survey. _____Q_____As well as a generality who could afford
private tuitions, those who were studying were mainly doing so at home on their own.
This lockout, one of the longest in the world, has _____M_____paved the way for their lives and the
country’s fragile schooling system.

111
22. M
a. played havoc with
b. made a hash of
c. made away with
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required
As primary and upper-primary schools finally begin to reopen, it is important to ______N______set

about with melioration and think about how to repair it.
23. N
a. wake up to the damage
b. apprehend the havoc
c. perceive the disarray
mostly left to _____P_____drift away or sink.
24. O
a. becoming submerged
b. staying afloat
c. ceasing to be visible
A. Only b B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Only c E. No replacement required
mostly left to _____P_____drift away or sink.
25. P
a. be buoyant
b. stay the course
c. stay put
_____Q_____As well as a generality who could afford private tuitions, those who were studying
were mainly doing so at home on their own.
26. Q
a. Except for a small minority
b. With the exception of the lion's share
c. Aside from a miniscule number of students

112
A. Both b and c B. Both a and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. No replacement required
Feminism is the notion that each individual should be free to develop their own talents and not be
_____M_____stirred up by humanitarian hindrances. Amongst the other hurdles in the way of
women’s empowerment are _______N_______direct prosperity and gender notions. Stereotypes
related to gender brilliance or gender-based _____O_____acquired unfitness or domestic
responsibilities are instances of implicit bias, revealing automatic associations that people cannot or,
at least, do not report holding when asked directly. Implicit biases ______P_____generate inequity
which remains unnoticed.
_____M_____stirred up by humanitarian hindrances.
27. M
a. held back by man-made barriers
b. stymied by artificial hindrances
c. whipped up by unreal obstacles
Amongst the other hurdles in the way of women’s empowerment are _______N_______direct
prosperity and gender notions.
28. N
a. implicit bias and gender stereotypes
b. indirect prejudices and gender clichés
c. definite equities and gender issues
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required
Stereotypes related to gender brilliance or gender-based _____O_____acquired unfitness or

domestic responsibilities are instances of implicit bias, revealing

113
29. O
a. intrinsic aptitude
b. inherent ability
c. immanent inclination
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both b and c D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
Implicit biases ______P_____generate inequity which remains unnoticed.
30. P
a. hinder unfairness
b. impede injustice
c. promote equality
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
It is estimated that 95-97 per cent of animal cloning attempts ____M____make their mark. Yet, as
science advances, bringing cloning out of ____N____the sphere of actuality and into the domain of
reality, there is growing concern about its implications. _____O_____Merriments plotted in
literature and popular entertainment have ranged from projects to clone dozens of dictators —
imagine a world full of Hitlers — to recreating ____P____a cluster of edifices tasked to perform
menial work only. In an ideal world, the goal of cloning, be it in humans or in animals,
_____Q_____must be inebriating — curing common and rare ailments such as diabetes and
degenerative brain diseases. But this _____R____cannot rule out the very real fear that cloning
could be used to facilitate eugenics to enhance certain traits to the exclusion of others.
It is estimated that 95-97 per cent of animal cloning attempts ____M____make their mark.
31. M
a. don't pass muster
b. end in failure
c. make the grade
A. Both b and c B. Only b C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required
Yet, as science advances, bringing cloning out of ____N____the sphere of actuality and into the
domain of reality, there is growing concern about its implications.

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32. N
a. the domain of substantiality
b. the works of the scientific imagination
c. the realm of science fiction
_____O_____Merriments plotted in literature and popular entertainment have ranged from projects
to clone dozens of dictators — imagine a world full of Hitlers —
33. O
a. Nightmares envisioned
b. Horrors pictured
c. Resilience depicted
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Only c D. Only b E. No replacement required
— imagine a world full of Hitlers — to recreating ____P____a cluster of edifices tasked to perform
menial work only.
34. P
a. hordes of workers
b. a mass of proletarians
c. a crowd of labourers
A. Both b and c B. Both a and c C. Both a and b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement

required
In an ideal world, the goal of cloning, be it in humans or in animals, _____Q_____must be

inebriating — curing common and rare ailments such as diabetes and degenerative brain diseases.
35. Q
a. should be therapeutic
b. should be restorative
c. must be collective
But this _____R____cannot rule out the very real fear that cloning could be used to facilitate
eugenics to enhance certain traits to the exclusion of others.
36. R
a. can disregard the imminent danger

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b. can raise our spirits with the apprehension

c. cannot incorporate the fright
A national COVID-19 vaccine communication strategy additionally identified approaches to

transparently _____M____stamp down data, address vaccine hesitancy, and communicate the
basis of _____N_____a breakneck vaccine distribution. India’s experience with mass-vaccination
campaigns is marked by the ____O____abortive execution of the Universal Immunisation
Programme that uses ____P____evolving mass-communication and social media strategies to
build vaccine trust. This is reflected in a November 2020 survey showing that 87% of Indians were
willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. However, we should not _____Q_____assume this flimsy
trust.

basis of _____N_____a breakneck vaccine distribution.
37. M
a. disseminate information
b. propagate kidology
c. circulate particulars
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Only b E. No replacement required

basis of _____N_____a breakneck vaccine distribution.
38. N
a. a staggered vaccine rollout
b. a headlong vaccination rollout
c. an impetuous vaccination drive

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India’s experience with mass-vaccination campaigns is marked by the ____O____abortive

execution of the Universal Immunisation Programme that uses ____P____evolving mass-
communication and social media strategies to build vaccine trust.
39. O
a. thwarted carrying out
b. victorious implementation
c. successful secession
India’s experience with mass-vaccination campaigns is marked by the ____O____abortive

execution of the Universal Immunisation Programme that uses ____P____evolving mass-
communication and social media strategies to build vaccine trust.
40. P
a. germinating mass-coagulation
b. diminishing mass-connection
c. developed mass-detachment
This is reflected in a November 2020 survey showing that 87% of Indians were willing to receive a
COVID-19 vaccine. However, we should not _____Q_____assume this flimsy trust.
41. Q
a. take this hard-won trust for granted.
b. take this well-earned trust as given
c. presume this tenuous trust
A gender-equal society should be one where the word 'gender' does not exist. But, since time
immemorial, the issue of gender divide has been ____M____sequestered in our social club.
Hence, the _____N____enfeebling impulse towards adopting gender-neutral language is welcome;
it can help ____O____let in the attributes of a binary imagination. But these transformations
_____P____might be practicable. Gender-inclusive spaces are, therefore, necessary to

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_____Q_____create credence and bigotry towards non-binary or gender non-conforming

individuals in a _____R_____collectivistic society.
immemorial, the issue of gender divide has been ____M____sequestered in our social club.
42. M
a. embedded in our society
b. integrated in our civilization
c. implanted in the humankind
Hence, the _____N____enfeebling impulse towards adopting gender-neutral language is welcome;
43. N
a. gathering momentum
b. congregating impetus
c. disseminating impulse
A. Only a B. Both a and b C. Only b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
it can help ____O____let in the attributes of a binary imagination.
44. N
a. shed the trappings
b. get rid of the accompaniments
c. cast off the baggage
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
But these transformations _____P____might be practicable.
45. P
a. might also be legitimate
b. can also be cosmetic
c. can be undisputed

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Gender-inclusive spaces are, therefore, necessary to _____Q_____create credence and bigotry

towards non-binary or gender non-conforming individuals in a _____R_____collectivistic society.
46. Q
a. build acceptance and tolerance
b. grow ratification and partisanship
c. establish fright and espousal
Gender-inclusive spaces are, therefore, necessary to _____Q_____create credence and bigotry

towards non-binary or gender non-conforming individuals in a _____R_____collectivistic society.
47. R
a. invidious society
b. preferential social structure
c. prejudiced civilization
immemorial, the issue of gender divide has been embedded in our society. Hence, the gathering
momentum towards adopting gender-neutral language is welcome; it can help shed the trappings
of a binary imagination. But these transformations can also be cosmetic. Gender-inclusive spaces
are, therefore, necessary to build acceptance and tolerance towards non-binary or gender non-
conforming individuals in a collectivistic society.
An interim report by the Brahma Committee alleged that 63 lakh bighas of government land had
been encroached upon, even though the veracity of the exact volume of territorial encroachment
______M______continues to be comprehendible. Indigenous communities have been known to
occupy government land, especially in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh. ______N______The growing
serenity between settlers and indigenous communities has been fanned by
_____O_____consolidative political ideas.
Encroachment is a serious problem in Assam that has been magnified by larger socio-economic-
historical conditions such as ______P______political upheavals, vagaries of the environment and
displacement. It requires patient, objective, _____Q______concentrated laxity and effective
rehabilitation. _____R_____Aiding those being arrested, justly or otherwise, cannot be a solution.

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______M______continues to be comprehendible.
48. M
a. remains ambiguous
b. continues to be debatable
c. deserves to be credible
A. Both b and c B. Both a and b C. Only b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required
Indigenous communities have been known to occupy government land, especially in Tinsukia and
Dibrugarh. ______N______The growing serenity between settlers and indigenous communities
has been fanned by _____O_____consolidative political ideas.
49. N
a. The festering tension
b. The worsening repose
c. The corrective stress
Indigenous communities have been known to occupy government land, especially in Tinsukia and
Dibrugarh. ______N______The growing serenity between settlers and indigenous communities
has been fanned by _____O_____consolidative political ideas.
50. O
a. unifying political notions
b. divisive political rhetoric
c. discordant political talks
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both b and c D. Only b E. No replacement required
historical conditions such as ______P______political upheavals, vagaries of the environment and
displacement.
51. P
a. political constancy
b. policy-making assurances
c. governmental transparencies

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It requires patient, objective, _____Q______concentrated laxity and effective rehabilitation.
52. Q
a. inclusive examination
b. comprehensive scrutiny
c. selective interrogation
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required
_____R_____Aiding those being arrested, justly or otherwise, cannot be a solution.
53. R
a. Gunning down those being evicted
b. Executing those being evicted
c. Slaying those being evicted.
_____M_____stirred up by humanitarian hindrances. Amongst the other hurdles in the way of
women’s empowerment are _______N_______direct prosperity and gender notions. Stereotypes
related to gender brilliance or gender-based _____O_____acquired unfitness or domestic
responsibilities are instances of implicit bias, revealing automatic associations that people cannot or,
at least, do not report holding when asked directly. Implicit biases ______P_____generate inequity
which remains unnoticed.
_____M_____stirred up by humanitarian hindrances.
54. M

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a. held back by man-made barriers

b. stymied by artificial hindrances
c. whipped up by unreal obstacles
Amongst the other hurdles in the way of women’s empowerment are _______N_______direct
prosperity and gender notions.
55. N
a. implicit bias and gender stereotypes
b. indirect prejudices and gender clichés
c. definite equities and gender issues
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. No replacement required

Stereotypes related to gender brilliance or gender-based _____O_____acquired unfitness or
domestic responsibilities are instances of implicit bias, revealing
56. O
a. intrinsic aptitude
b. inherent ability
c. immanent inclination
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both b and c D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
Implicit biases ______P_____generate inequity which remains unnoticed.
57. P
a. hinder unfairness
b. impede injustice
c. promote equality
The dominance of emojis and other kinds of image over the written word has also pushed
punctuations _____M_____into being emergent. But in certain corners of the world, punctuations
can still ______N______pack a punch. Most recently, in Australia, a missing apostrophe in a
Facebook post could, in all probability, cost a real estate agent a fortune after a court permitted
defamation proceedings to begin, arguing that ______O______the grammatic veracity left
considerable scope for the message _____P_____to be apprehended. Three years ago, a court in

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the United States of America had taken an equally refreshing position, stating that the absence of an
Oxford comma had _____Q____led to tenuous unequivocalness.
punctuations _____M_____into being emergent.
58. M
a. towards the exit door
b. into being predominant
c. into oblivion
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and c D. Only b E. No replacement required
But in certain corners of the world, punctuations can still ______N______pack a punch.
59. N
a. be of no account
b. be inconsequential
c. be of no consequence
Most recently, in Australia, a missing apostrophe in a Facebook post could, in all probability, cost a
real estate agent a fortune after a court permitted defamation proceedings to begin, arguing that
______O______the grammatic veracity left considerable scope for the message _____P_____to
be apprehended.
60. O
a. the grammatical slip
b. the grammatical gaffe
c. the grammatical accuracy
be apprehended.

123
61. P
a. to be misinterpreted
b. to be taken amiss
c. to be misconceived
Three years ago, a court in the United States of America had taken an equally refreshing position,
stating that the absence of an Oxford comma had _____Q____led to tenuous unequivocalness.
62. Q
a. led to significant ambiguity
b. led to superficial ambivalence
c. led to considerable obscurity
A. Only a B. Both a and c C. Both a and b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required
To imitate and to conform — do what others around us are doing — are common and very
____M____flimsy human subjects. Scientists ascribe the evolutionary _____N_____foundering
of these notions to benefits accruing to individuals, not least among them that the world is complex,
and every individual cannot figure it all out, _____O_____know everything in fine.
Particularly in areas _____P_____within our frailty, it is efficient to follow what others are doing,
like choosing the right subject to study at college, or more simply, the path to a railway station in
Mumbai. This comes ____Q____along with its own edges, though. In financial markets,
_____R_____herd behaviour is a warning sign: When markets are doing well, people invest for no
other reason than their neighbours having become wealthier (and vice versa).
To imitate and to conform — do what others around us are doing — are common and very
____M____flimsy human subjects.
63. M
a. powerful human tendencies

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b. compelling human hypotheses

c. strong human dispositions
Scientists ascribe the evolutionary _____N_____foundering of these notions to benefits accruing

to individuals, not least among them that the world is complex, and every individual cannot figure it
all out, _____O_____know everything in fine.
64. N
a. blunder of these behaviours
b. success of these traits
c. successful outcome of these attributes
Scientists ascribe the evolutionary _____N_____foundering of these notions to benefits accruing

all out, _____O_____know everything in fine.
65. O
a. pass on everything finally
b. learn everything ab initio
c. acquire everything eventually
Particularly in areas _____P_____within our frailty, it is efficient to follow what others are doing,
like choosing the right subject to study at college, or more simply, the path to a railway station in
Mumbai.
66. P
a. outside out expertise
b. beyond the scope of our incompetence
c. beneath the limit of our abilities
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Only b E. No replacement required


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This comes ____Q____along with its own edges, though. In financial markets, _____R_____herd
behaviour is a warning sign: When markets are doing well, people invest for no other reason than
their neighbours having become wealthier (and vice versa).
67. Q
a. aside from its own drawbacks
b. along with its own edges
c. in company with its own pitfalls
A. Both b and c B. Only c C. Both a and b D. Only b E. No replacement required
This comes ____Q____along with its own edges, though. In financial markets, _____R_____herd
behaviour is a warning sign: When markets are doing well, people invest for no other reason than
their neighbours having become wealthier (and vice versa).
68. R
a. venerable traits
b. detached tendencies
c. integrated dissents
A. Both b and c B. Only c C. Both a and b D. Only b E. No replacement required
Directions(69-74): In the following passage, some of the words have been left out, each of
which is indicated by a letter. Find the suitable word from the options given against each
letter and fill up the blanks with appropriate words to make the paragraph meaningful.
On Sunday, the coal ministry sought to _____M_____ concerns over inadequate coal supplies for
thermal power plants and dispel fears of disruptions in power supply across the country. This comes
after several states had raised the issue of _____N_____ coal with the Union government. As
reported in this paper, around half of the major coal-based power plants that are closely monitored
have less than three days’ worth of _____O_____ as per data from the Central Electricity Authority.
Power plants are required to hold 15-30 days of coal _____P_____. States facing power shortages
have thus been forced to buy power at much higher rates on the exchanges. This situation, a
throwback to the years of ______Q______, has in fact forced some discoms to urge their consumers
to use electricity ______R_______.

126
thermal power plants and dispel fears of disruptions in power supply across the country.
69. M
a. assuage
b. disoblige
c. alleviate
This comes after several states had raised the issue of _____N_____ coal with the Union
government.
70. N
a. dwindling
b. tapering
c. augmentative
As reported in this paper, around half of the major coal-based power plants that are closely
monitored have less than three days’ worth of _____O_____ as per data from the Central Electricity
Authority.
71. O
a. stocks
b. commodities
c. reserves
have thus been forced to buy power at much higher rates on the exchanges.
72. P

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a. inventory
b. catalogue
c. archive
A. Only a B. Only b C. Only c D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
This situation, a throwback to the years of ______Q______, has in fact forced some discoms to urge
their consumers to use electricity ______R_______.
73. Q
a. scarceness
b. shortages
c. profuseness
74. R
a. imprudently
b. judiciously
c. with kid gloves
ANSWER
noteworthy / notable / momentous - significant.

headway - progress.
slump - a sudden severe or prolonged fall in the price, value, or amount of something.
retrogression - the process of returning to an earlier state, typically a worse one.)

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2.(Answer - C. Both a and c
self-sustaining / self-standing - independent.
self-abnegating - strict.
It does not make sense.
symbiotic - dependent.)
unsustainability - the incapacity of keeping (something) sustainable; the capability of getting

depleted.
productivity - the state or quality of being productive.

proficiency - a high degree of skill; expertise.)
4.(Answer - E. No replacement required
procurement - the action of obtaining or procuring something.
exhaustion / attenuation - lessening.)
Diversification / Variegation - the action of diversifying something or the fact of becoming more
diverse.
commonality - the state of sharing features or attributes.

Correspondence - a close similarity, connection, or equivalence.)
6.(Answer - D. All a, b and c
dispensation / apportioning / issuance - distribution.
disjointedness - lacking order or coherence.)
7. (Answer - B. Only a
give a second thought to - worry about.
give air to - to make known (as an idea, emotion, or opinion).
give a good account of oneself - to perform well or admirably.

129
give a darn about - to care at all about someone or something —used in negative statements.)
8.
(Answer - D. All a, b and c
documentary / docudrama / infotainment - a dramatized television film based on real events.
epitome - a person or thing that is a perfect example of a particular quality or type.

It doesn't make sense here.)
depict - represent by a drawing, painting, or other art form.
cache - store away in hiding or for future use.

shroud - cover or envelop so as to conceal from view.
delude - make (someone) believe something that is not true.)
sustainability - the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
personalty - a person's personal property.

tangibility - the quality of being perceivable by touch.
concoction - an elaborate story, especially a fabricated one.

These words don't make sense.)
urbanise - make or become urban in character.
gasifying - converting (a solid or liquid, especially coal) into gas.
contrive - create or bring about (an object or a situation) by deliberate use of skill and artifice.
restrictive / constrictive - restricting the scope or freedom of action.
standpat - old-fashioned and conservative.

This word doesn't make sense here.

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emancipative - unrestrictive.)
expectedly / unsurprisingly - obviously.
obscure / becloud / curtain - keep from being seen; conceal.
appallingly - shockingly.
ingest - to eat.
14.(Answer - A. Both a and b
wrought by - caused by.
bring about - cause something to happen.

It would have been correct with one more preposition with it - brought about by.
whip up - to deliberately excite or provoke someone.)
apposite - appropriate.
undue / unbefitting - inappropriate.
assessment - estimation or evaluation.)
look through - see or examine through.
cut through - to get quickly and directly through or past (something that blocks one or slows one
down).
look away - avert one's gaze.
bring forth - produce or give rise to something.)
You've to read the entire statement to understand the tone.
in opposition to / at odds with - against.

131
in anticipation of - expecting that (something will happen or that someone will arrive).
dereliction - the shameful failure to fulfil one's obligations.
veracity - truthfulness.)
18. (Answer - C. Only c
deterrent - a thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something.
feckless - ineffective.
fillip - encouragement; incentive.)
symbolic / emblematic - serving as a symbol of a particular quality or concept.
literal - actual.
telling - significant.)
sensitization - the quality or condition of responding to certain stimuli in a sensitive manner.
aesthesia - sensibility.
profusion - abundance.
origination - the beginning or creation of something.

hollowness - insincerity.)
21. (Answer - B. Only b
embedded - integrated.
inconsistency - inequality.
parallelism / correspondence - the state of being parallel or of corresponding in some way.
emancipation - the fact or process of being set free from legal, social, or political restrictions;
liberation.)
Even though activists have made several arguments against the efficacy of capital punishment as a
deterrent, the death penalty is still repeatedly proposed by political parties in an attempt to deflect
attention from the structural and systemic challenges. India’s anti-rape laws are already stringent;
putting effective deterrents in place would require more than symbolic gestures. These would
involve addressing the lacunae on multiple fronts: shoddy investigation, the lack of sensitization

132
among the police and the public about the dangers of ‘instant justice’ and, crucially, the embedded
inequalities of gender and economics fuelling such crimes.
play havoc with / make a hash of - completely disrupt.
make away with - to escape with something that you have stolen.
This does not make sense.)
wake up to something / apprehend something - to start to understand that a situation or problem

exists.
disarray - confusion.
Hence, 'perceive the disarray' doesn't make sense.
set about - begin to deal with.)
24.(Answer - A. Only b
Stay afloat - stay on the surface of something and does not sink.
become submerged / go down - to sink.

cease to be very visible - to disappear.)
drift away or sink - go down below the surface of something, especially of a liquid; become
submerged.
buoyant - cheerful and optimistic.
stay put - remain somewhere without moving or being moved.
stay the course - keep going strongly to the end of a race or contest.)
26.(Answer - B. Both a and c
except for - aside from.

133
generality - the majority.

the lion's share - the largest part of something.)
Indian children have been “locked out” of school for almost a year and a half. This lockout, one of the
longest in the world, has played havoc with their lives and the country’s fragile schooling system.
As primary and upper-primary schools finally begin to reopen, it is important to wake up to the
damage and think about how to repair it.
If online children had a hard time staying afloat, the rest (“offline children”) were mostly left to drift
away or sink. In rural areas, nearly half of offline children were not studying at all at the time of the
survey. Except for a small minority who could afford private tuitions, those who were studying were
mainly doing so at home on their own.
hold back / stymie - to hinder.
whip up / stir up - to encourage.)
implicit - indirect.
stereotype - cliché.)
immanent - intrinsic.)
30.
(Answer - E. No replacement required)
held back by man-made barriers. Amongst the other hurdles in the way of women’s empowerment
are implicit bias and gender stereotypes. Stereotypes related to gender brilliance or gender-based
intrinsic aptitude or domestic responsibilities are instances of implicit bias, revealing automatic
associations that people cannot or, at least, do not report holding when asked directly. Implicit biases
generate inequity which remains unnoticed.
pass muster - meet a required standard or succeed.
make one's mark / make the grade - to succeed.)

134
substantiality - actuality or reality.

realm - domain.)
33.(Answer - A. Both a and b
You've to solve it by using the tone.
nightmare - horror.
envision - to picture or visualize.
Resilience - bravery.
It's irrelevant.
Merriment - joy.)
a horde / mass / crowd - a great number of persons or creatures massed together.
proletarian - worker.
a cluster of - a group of similar things or people positioned or occurring closely together.

edifice - building.
This does not make sense.
menial - (of work) not requiring much skill and lacking prestige.)
therapeutic / restorative - relating to the healing of disease.
collective - combined.
inebriating - intoxicating.)
According to the tone, this is the correct answer.)
It is estimated that 95-97 per cent of animal cloning attempts end in failure. Yet, as science
advances, bringing cloning out of the realm of science fiction and into the domain of reality, there
is growing concern about its implications. Nightmares envisioned in literature and popular
entertainment have ranged from projects to clone dozens of dictators — imagine a world full of
Hitlers — to recreating hordes of workers tasked to perform menial work only. In an ideal world, the
goal of cloning, be it in humans or in animals, should be therapeutic — curing common and rare
ailments such as diabetes and degenerative brain diseases. But this cannot rule out the very real
fear that cloning could be used to facilitate eugenics to enhance certain traits to the exclusion of
others.

135
disseminate - to spread or circulate or propagate.

particulars - information.
kidology - the art or practice of deliberately deceiving or teasing people.

stamp down - to suppress.)
staggered - unorganised.
breakneck / headlong / impetuous - moving fast or rapidly.)
39.
(Answer - C. Only b
victorious - successful.
abortive / thwarted - unsuccessful.

secession - withdrawal.)
40. (Answer - E. No replacement required
coagulation - the action or process of a liquid, especially blood, changing to a solid or semi-solid
state.
These three options don't make any sense.)
take it for granted - take it as given.

tenuous / flimsy - very weak or slight.)

basis of a staggered vaccine rollout. India’s experience with mass-vaccination campaigns is
marked by the successful implementation of the Universal Immunisation Programme that uses
evolving mass-communication and social media strategies to build vaccine trust. This is reflected
in a November 2020 survey showing that 87% of Indians were willing to receive a COVID-19
vaccine. However, we should not take this hard-won trust for granted.
embed / integrate - implant (an idea or feeling) so that it becomes ingrained within a particular
context.

136
sequester - isolate or hide away.
humankind / civilization - society.)
gather - to congregate.
momentum - impetus or impulse - something that causes something to happen or happen more
quickly; an impetus.
enfeeble - make weak or feeble.

disseminate - spread (something, especially information) widely.)
shed / cast off - to get rid of.
trappings / baggage / accompaniments - the outward signs, features, or objects associated with a
particular situation, role, or job.
binary - compounded or consisting of or marked by two things or parts.

let in - to accept.)
45.(Answer - C. Only b
cosmetic - non-functional.
legitimate / undisputed / practicable - realistic.)
ratification - the action of signing or giving formal consent to a treaty, contract, or agreement,
making it officially valid.
partisanship / bigotry - prejudice and partiality.
credence - belief in or acceptance of something as true.

espousal - an act of adopting or supporting a cause, belief, or way of life.
fright - fear.)
invidious - unpleasant.
preferential - biased.
collectivistic - subscribing to the socialistic doctrine of ownership by the people collectively.)

137
48. (Answer - B. Both a and b
Pay attention to the connector - 'even though'.
ambiguous / debatable - not clear or decided.
comprehendible - capable of being comprehended or understood.
credible - able to be believed; convincing.)
According to the overall context, only a will be correct.
festering - worsening.
corrective - bettering.
serenity - peace.)
50. (Answer - C. Both b and c
divisive / discordant - tending to cause disagreement or hostility between people.
consolidative - unifying.
rhetoric - the art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, especially the exploitation of figures
of speech and other compositional techniques.)
upheaval - a violent or sudden change or disruption to something.
The words 'constancy', 'transparency' and 'assurance' are all positive words.)
This can be answered by understanding the tone.
inclusive / comprehensive - including all.
concentrated - wholly directed to one thing.

laxity - lack of strictness or care.)

138
Gun down / Execute / Slay - to kill.

evict - to force someone to leave somewhere.
Aid - to help.)
remains ambiguous. Indigenous communities have been known to occupy government land,
especially in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh. The festering tension between settlers and indigenous
communities has been fanned by divisive political rhetoric.
historical conditions such as political upheavals, vagaries of the environment and displacement. It
requires patient, objective, inclusive examination and effective rehabilitation. Gunning down
those being evicted, justly or otherwise, cannot be a solution.
hold back / stymie - to hinder.
whip up / stir up - to encourage.)
implicit - indirect.
stereotype - cliché.)
56.
(Answer - D. All a, b and c
immanent - intrinsic.)
57.(Answer - E. No replacement required)

held back by man-made barriers. Amongst the other hurdles in the way of women’s empowerment
are implicit bias and gender stereotypes. Stereotypes related to gender brilliance or gender-based
intrinsic aptitude or domestic responsibilities are instances of implicit bias, revealing automatic
associations that people cannot or, at least, do not report holding when asked directly. Implicit biases
generate inequity which remains unnoticed.
into oblivion / towards the exit door - into the state of forgetting or having forgotten.)
pack a punch - be very effective.
Be of no account - be insignificant or inconsequential.)


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slip / gaffe - a minor or careless mistake.
61. (Answer - D. All a, b and c

misinterpreted / taken amiss / misconceived - misunderstood.)
62. (Answer - B. Both a and c

ambiguity / ambivalence / obscurity - the quality of being open to more than one interpretation;
inexactness.
unequivocalness - clarity.
tenuous - insignificant.)
To imitate and to conform - these are strong/powerful human tendencies/dispositions.
hypothesis (plural - hypotheses) - theory.
compelling - strong.
flimsy - insignificant.)
trait / attribute - a distinguishing quality or characteristic, typically one belonging to a person.

floundering - failure.)
65. (Answer - C. Only b

ab initio - from the beginning.
pass on - transit knowledge or skills.

This word doesn't make sense.
The words 'eventually' and 'in fine' don't make sense either.
in fine - finally.)

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expertise - skillfulness by virtue of possessing special knowledge.
incompetence - lack of ability.

frailty - weakness.)
67. (Answer - B. Only c

in company with - along with.
aside from - apart from.
pitfall - risk or danger.

edge - advantage.)
herd behaviour - Herd behavior is the behavior of individuals in a group acting collectively without
centralized direction.)
To imitate and to conform — do what others around us are doing — are common and very powerful
human tendencies. Scientists ascribe the evolutionary success of these traits to benefits accruing
all out, learn everything ab initio.
Particularly in areas outside our expertise, it is efficient to follow what others are doing, like
choosing the right subject to study at college, or more simply, the path to a railway station in
Mumbai. This comes with its own pitfalls, though. In financial markets, herd behaviour is a
warning sign: When markets are doing well, people invest for no other reason than their neighbours
having become wealthier (and vice versa).
You've to read the entire statement carefully. Look at the phrase 'dispel fears of disruptions in
power supply across the country' in the above statement.
dispel - make (a doubt, feeling, or belief) disappear
That means, the chosen word must be positive in tone.
assuage / alleviate - reduce or relieve.
disoblige - offend (someone) by not acting in accordance with their wishes.)


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dwindling / tapering - decreasing.
augmentative - increasing.)
stocks / commodities / reserves - the goods or merchandise kept on the premises of a shop or
warehouse and available for sale or distribution.)
inventory - stocks in hand.

catalogue - a list of works of art in an exhibition or collection, with detailed comments and
explanations.
archive - a collection of historical documents or records providing information about a place,
institution, or group of people.)
scarceness - shortage.
profuseness - abundance.)
judiciously / with kid gloves - carefully with good judgement or sense.
imprudently - unwisely.)
CHAPTER-4
PARAJUMBLES
Direction(1-5): Six sentences are given. Four words are highlighted in each of the six
sentences. First, choose the pairs of words that need to be interchanged to make each of the
sentences grammatically correct and meaningful. Also, arrange the jumbled parts of these
sentences to form a meaningful paragraph. Out of the six sentences, there is one sentence

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which does not fit into the theme of the passage thus formed. Read the sentences carefully
and answer the questions that follow.
(a) The Indo-Gangetic (1)states remain central to the country’s air pollution (2)toxicity, but the
(3)problem has now spread to western and central Indian (4)plains such as Madhya Pradesh and
Maharashtra.
(b) (1)Challenges change; so do the (2)times they bring with them and this is why India is set to
update its national ambient air quality (3)pollutants, which would consider more (4)standards,
including ultra-fine particulate matter.
(c) Air pollution can cause health (1)changes including (2)effects, behavioral (3)predicaments,
cancer and premature death and these health (4)infections are not equally distributed across the
U.S population
(d) Interestingly, (1)conditions would also (2)position in India’s geographical (3)factor and
meteorological (4)experts.
(e) As an (1)expectancy it has decreased the life (2)outcome of the (3)years by two to three
(4)residents compared to early 2000s.
(f) This is particularly relevant in (1)time of recent (2)levels like Air Quality Life Index, by the
University of Chicago, which shows that India’s air pollution (3)reports have expanded
geographically over (4)light.
1. In statements (a) and (b), choose the correct pairs (respectively) that need to be
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-2 & 3-4
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-3 & 2-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
2. In statements (c) and (d), choose the correct pairs (respectively) that need to be
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-4 & 2-3
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-3 & 2-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4

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3. In statements (e) and (f), choose the correct pairs (respectively) that need to be
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-4 & 2-3
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-4 & 2-3
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
4. Which of the following statements is the ODD statement here?
A. a
B. f
C. d
D. e
5. Which of the following combinations is the combination of THREE CONSECUTIVE

statements, after the correct rearrangement?
A. b f a
B. d a e
C. d f a
D. d a b
Direction(6-10): In the following question, six sentences which are in their jumbled form, are
given. Further each sentence has a highlighted part, which may or may not form a
contextually meaningful sentence. You've to swap the highlighted part with the other to make
a contextually meaningful sentence and then rearrange those sentences to make a
contextually meaningful paragraph.
After forming the entire paragraph, you've to determine the tone(s) of the author in the
paragraph and you've to also choose a logical statement which can come right after the last
statement of this paragraph.

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(a) The regulations are, therefore, being showcased as star recommendations of NEP and learning
path to attain a degree.
(b) The National Education Policy (NEP), released in July 2020, rightly observes that the lack of
relevance in India is too structured, rigid and expensive.
(c) Most importantly, they can facilitate students choosing their game-changers for higher
education, diploma or certification with multiple entry-multiple exit options.
(d) The two regulations could change all this by promoting strengths, needs, skills, and interests,
interdisciplinarity and academic mobility for students across higher education institutions, with
appropriate credit transfer mechanisms..
(e) Above all, the regulations aim at student-centric learning, customised for each student’s
flexibility of curriculum framework.
(f) Students tend to drop out because of its education delivery system, its failing to sustain their
interest or because of affordability.
6. With which of the following phrases must 'learning path to attain a degree' be interchanged
to make the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?
A. lack of relevance
B. flexibility of curriculum framework
C. game-changers for higher education
D. strengths, needs, skills, and interests
E. No swapping required
7. With which of the following phrases must 'strengths, needs, skills, and interests' be
interchanged to make the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?
A. lack of relevance
D. education delivery system
8. With which of the following phrases must 'lack of relevance' be interchanged to make the
sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?
A. learning path to attain a degree

D. education delivery system

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9.Which of the following combinations is the combination of THREE CONSECUTIVE

statements after the correct rearrangement?
A. b d c
B. f e a
C. d c e
D. d e a
a. explanatory
b. critical
c. vituperative
Directions(11-14): Four statements are given below, labelled A, B, C and D, among these,
three statements are logically connected. From the given options, choose the option that
does not fit into the theme of the passage.
You're now given three statements. You've to replace the odd statement with a statement /
statements from the three statements given, that is/are in line with the other three statements.
11.
A. Only 21% of women in India are mobile internet users, while the percentage for men is twice that
number.
B. In rural India, where two-thirds of the country lives, just about a quarter of the population has
internet access.
C. There are many societal factors that make it difficult for women and girls to enjoy full digital
freedoms in India.
D. Despite the massive surge in Internet and smartphone usage in urban India, their uptake in rural
India, particularly among women, has plateaued severely.
A. A B. B C. C D. D E. No statement is odd

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12. Which of the following statements can replace the odd statement in the above context?
a. Digitising India inevitably means tackling egregious access gaps.

b. India has an Internet density of only 49.78 %, which means that every second person is not
digitally connected.
c. Less than four out of ten women in urban India and three out of ten in rural India have ever
used the Internet.
13.
A. Municipalities are rightly being forced to leave unowned dogs outside people’s homes and on the
streets.
B. It is our moral responsibility to in fact provide food for stray dogs as it is supposedly the panacea
to all related problems.
C. There is no constitutional obligation to carry out self-styled 'animal welfare' activities in public
places.
D. Concepts like animal welfare and compassion are subjective issues at best.
a. Most people who feed dogs only notice the friendly behaviour of dogs, but those very same
dogs can become very aggressive to a passer-by.
b. It is the statutory, civic duty of municipal corporations to check the dog population and
prevent public nuisance.
c. Our duties to animals are indirect and we should use our discretion while involving ourselves
in the welfare of an animal.
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c

147
(a) The decision, on the apparent, smacks of his dogged desire to become the batting colossus that
he has been for the brink of entering the final stretch of his career.
(b) In his quest for batting liberation, Virat Kohli has renounced his longest drought.
(c) Now that he’s 33, on a chunk of his glittering career, he wants to be what he was and what he
always wanted to be.
(d) In the past couple of century-less years, a part of his workload without a century, Kohli’s batting
prowess had diminished, not immensely but incrementally.
(e) The best batsman across formats, and he perhaps sees the shortest format to it, but the puzzle
remains whether quitting T20I captaincy would indeed reduce his burden.
(f) Post the T20 World Cup in November, he would no longer lead his country in leadership duties
as a hindrance.
15. With which of the following phrases must 'the brink of entering the final stretch of his
career' be interchanged to make the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?
A. the shortest format

B. leadership duties as a hindrance
C. a chunk of his glittering career
D. his longest drought
16. With which of the following phrases must 'his longest drought' be interchanged to make
the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?.
A. the brink of entering the final stretch of his career

B. a part of his workload
C. leadership duties as a hindrance
D. a chunk of his glittering career
17. With which of the following phrases must 'the shortest format' be interchanged to make
the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?.
A. the brink of entering the final stretch of his career

B. a part of his workload
C. leadership duties as a hindrance
D. a chunk of his glittering career

148

A. f a d
B. a c e
C. b a c
D. b d e
(Answer - A. f a d
The correct arrangement is -
b f a d c e )
a. analytical
b. sceptical
c. critical
20. Which of the following statements can come right after the last statement of the
paragraph, after the correct rearrangement?
a. Had he quit the format altogether, it would have strengthened the argument that he wants to
be what he was and what he always wanted to be.
b. As it is now, it’s unlikely that his workload could be reduced considerably.
c. The decision would help him retrace the steps to his batting pinnacle and it could turn out to
be a masterstroke.

149
Direction(21-25): Six sentences are given, each of which is divided into four parts and then
jumbled; also, four words are highlighted in each of the six sentences. First, choose the pairs
of words that need to be interchanged to make each of the sentences grammatically correct
and meaningful. Also, arrange the jumbled parts of these sentences to form a meaningful
paragraph. Out of the six sentences, there is one sentence which does not fit into the theme
of the passage thus formed. Read the sentences carefully and answer the questions that
follow.
(a) In the (1)citizens of ordinary (2)lives, / From exploring life on Mangal (Mars) to finding mangal
(prosperity) / “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” at the centre / Indian scientific (3)spirit always keep the
(4)endeavours of
(b) I would like to pay (3)importance and respect to him and / As India celebrates National Science
Day to recognise the (1)homage of / All the scientists across the country for giving us (4)discovery
for a happy life / The (2)paradigms of Raman’s effect by Nobel laureate C V Raman,
(c) A vaccine is a vibrant (2)emphasis of our spirit of practising science for society and this spirit is
also reflected in / The (1)innovation Indian scientists responded to the COVID-19 pandemic to
deliver / The National Education Policy 2020; / The policy places adequate (3)example on science,
technology and (4)way
(d) The (4)ethics of freedom of expression of creators, publishers, and digital platform companies /
The (1)stance will cover social networks, / While making the nation’s sovereign (2)guidelines clear
on matters of (3)protection and / Digital media companies, and various platforms
(e) This (3)ecosystem of science for society is / For the country and accentuating translational
(2)attitude and / The right (4)research for an Atmanirbhar Bharat / The policy envisages building a
robust science, technology, and innovation (1)approach
(f) Drawing (3)generations from his work, / Scientists like Raman are (1)contributions and inspire
(2)inspiration; / In the different fields of natural and applied sciences in modern times / Indian
scientists have made remarkable (4)pioneers
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-2 & 3-4
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-3 & 2-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4

150
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-2 & 3-4
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-2 & 3-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-4 & 2-3
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-2 & 3-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
A. b
B. c
C. e
D. d
E. a

A. b a e
B. f a c
C. f c e
D. b a c

151

(a) But forms of repeated macroeconomic shocks are only one factor in the country topping a
World Economic Forum index for gender equality for 12 years in a row.
(b) Indian women know there are countries where university degrees are doing much better.
(c) For example, more than 50% women earn their counterparts and women make up over 47% of
the total labour force.
(d) Recent research indicates that this is because they are being displaced by male workers in the
wake of affirmative actions.
(e) Indian women of course had been retreating from the numbers even before the pandemic.
(f) Iceland just celebrated a female-majority parliament, even if a recount swiftly pushed the
labourer force to a less dramatic 48%.
26. With which of the following phrases must 'repeated macroeconomic shocks' be
A. university degrees
B. the numbers
C. affirmative actions
D. the labour force
27. With which of the following phrases must 'university degrees' be interchanged to make
the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?
A. their counterparts
B. the numbers
D. the labour force

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28. With which of the following phrases must 'the numbers' be interchanged to make the
A. their counterparts
B. repeated macroeconomic shocks
D. the labour force

A. b a c
B. f c e
C. a c e
D. a e d
30. Which of the following statements can logically come right after the last statement of this
paragraph?
a. The trouble is that women are hardly the only group demanding reservation in India.
b. The weaker sections of society are worse hit when the pie shrinks.
c. Let’s demand good economic policies and really invest in proactive mentoring and
recruitment of men.
a. comparative
b. explanatory
c. queasy

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32.
A. Unlike rural areas, the urban municipalities do not have sufficient human resources in terms of
engineers or sanitation staff to manage the waste.
B. Improving the cleanliness level in a rural area is much less complex than in an urban set up.
C. Domestic waste in rural areas is managed in a much better manner compared to urban areas, as
it is segregated at the household level and a majority of it is used in the fields.
D. In the rural areas, the major challenge was to change the mindset of the populace so that they
would start using household toilets rather than defecate in open areas.
a. The extremely beneficial soak pit system that works in rural areas cannot work in urban areas
due to a space crunch and increasing population density.
b. The funds earmarked for solid waste management are minimal, similarly, there is limited
provision of funds for laying the sewerage networks.
c. Adopting a piecemeal approach for constructing toilets and litter bins will not solve the
systemic issue of waste disposal in villages.
34.
A. The tiger numbers had, no doubt, gone up.
B. In July, the tiger census report showcased a significant achievement for India’s conservation
efforts.
C. The latest tiger census did not follow well-established norms of tiger population estimation and the
investigation revealed the population of the animal could be 221 less than that claimed by the
survey.
D. That India was home to nearly 3,000 tigers was a remarkable improvement over 2006-2007, when
the population of the animal in the country had hit an all-time low of about 1,400.

154
a. Questions, however, continued to be raised about the tiger audits; for example, the quality of
the camera traps was a major issue in many tiger habitats.
b. It shows that the survey conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) and the National
Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) over-reported the country’s tiger population by 16%.
c. From a historic population low in 2010, tigers are finally making a remarkable comeback -
and that’s great news for the other threatened species they share their home with.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Only c E. None of a, b and c
36.
A. Delhi’s public transport is equipped to handle the fallout of extending road-rationing to two-
wheelers.
B. Almost four years after it was first implemented in Delhi, the odd-even scheme will make a
comeback in the city.
C. More importantly, it needs to ensure that the city’s public transport system is able to meet the
needs of commuters on days when their vehicles will be off the roads.
D. The road rationing scheme allows vehicles to ply on alternate days, depending on odd and even
number plates.
a. The government should hurry up as it has nearly two months to iron out glitches and sort out
potential differences that could come in the way of the smooth implementation of the plan.
b. The road-rationing was introduced in January 2016, as a desperate measure of sorts after
the Delhi High Court described the city as a gas chamber.
c. In the last three years, the Delhi government and the agencies responsible for managing the
city’s environment resorted to knee-jerk reactions, which did very little to improve the city’s air
quality.

155
Direction(38-45): Below are some statements, given in a random order. When these
statements are sequenced properly, they'll form a coherent and meaningful paragraph. There
are various questions based on each of the statements. Read it carefully and answer the
questions that follow.
(a) The release of a new herbicide-tolerant rice variety by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute
(IARI) that can be directly sown, instead of requiring transplantation, is therefore welcome.
(b) The IARI variety contains a mutated gene making the paddy plant “tolerant” to Imazethapyr, a
herbicide _________ against a wide range of _________.
(c) Farmers transplant and grow paddy in flooded fields mainly to control weeds, which cannot
emerge under water that acts as a natural herbicide.
(d) This chemical when now sprayed will kill only the weeds, while the paddy can be cultivated
without any nursery preparation, transplanting, puddling and flooding.
(e) Indian agriculture’s major challenge in the initial decades after Independence was to ________
crop production and ________ at any cost.
(f) Farmers would save about 30% water, Rs 3,000-per-acre labour costs and 10-15 days’ time from
direct seeding, compared to conventional transplantation.
(g) Today, it’s about boosting farm incomes, while simultaneously ensuring production that is
_____________, resource-use efficient and ____________.
(a) The release of a new herbicide-tolerant rice variety by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute
(IARI) that can be directly sown, instead of requiring transplantation, is therefore welcome.
38. How would you describe the new rice variety by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute,
as expressed in the above statement?
a. It can't be harmed by substances that are toxic to plants.

b. Its cultivation is not so arduous.
c. Its farming process is more straightforward.

156
39. Which of the following pairs of words can most appropriately fit in the blanks in the above
statement respectively?
a. effective, weeds
b. potent, faunas
c. toothless, vegetation
(c) Farmers transplant and grow paddy in flooded fields mainly to control weeds, which cannot
40. How would you define the approach of the farmers, as expressed in the above statement?
a. preventative
b. gainful
c. repressing
(d) This chemical when now sprayed will kill only the weeds, while the paddy can be cultivated
without any nursery preparation, transplanting, puddling and flooding.
41. How will you describe the chemical, as expressed in the above statement?
a. promotive
b. selective
c. prohibitive
(e) Indian agriculture’s major challenge in the initial decades after Independence was to ________
crop production and ________ at any cost.
a. bump up, yields

b. proliferate, earnings
c. tail off, profits

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(f) Farmers would save about 30% water, Rs 3,000-per-acre labour costs and 10-15 days’ time from
direct seeding, compared to conventional transplantation.
43. How would you describe the effects of direct seeding, as expressed in the above
statement?
a. frugal
b. expeditious
c. cost-effective
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both b and c D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
(g) Today, it’s about boosting farm incomes, while simultaneously ensuring production that is
_____________, resource-use efficient and ____________.
a. cost-competitive, climate-smart
b. cut-price, climate-resilient
c. rock-bottom, climate-intense

A. g a b
B. e a c
C. b d f
D. g c b
Directions(46-47): Given below is a set of statements, not necessarily in the correct order.
The statement given in bold is fixed and the SIXTH statement. You are required to arrange the
statements in the correct sequence and answer the questions.
(a) Now, there needs to be a parallel push to vaccinate children.
(b) The company’s vaccine, Covaxin, is already in use in the national programme.

158
(c) The next steps will have to be a final approval and a clearance from the National Technical
Advisory Group on Immunisation to be included in the national programme.
(d) And, the company’s vaccine for children has received a conditional approval from an expert
committee of the drug regulator.
(e) It’s supplied about 111 million doses, or 11.49% of the overall Covid vaccination coverage.
(f) India’s Covid vaccination programme has now ensured about 29.2% of the adult
population is fully vaccinated.
(g) Bharat Biotech is on the threshold of becoming the second Indian vaccine maker to receive an
emergency use approval in the domestic market for a children’s Covid vaccine.
(h) Cleary, the vaccination rollout prioritised demographics at greater risk.
46. Which of the following combinations is the combination of FOUR CONSECUTIVE statements,
after the correct rearrangement?
A. g e d c
B. c f h a
C. b d c h
D. e c h a
47. Which of the following pairs is the PAIR of the TERMINAL and the MAIDEN statement,
respectively, after the correct rearrangement?
A. a g
B. h g
C. a b
D. h b

159
The statement given in bold is fixed and the SECOND statement. You are required to arrange
the statements in the correct sequence and answer the questions.
(a) But the subsequent fortnight till October 18 witnessed only a 3.9 and 3.7 percentage point
increase in 1st-2nd dose coverage to 74% and 30%.
(b) CoWin indicates that India has crossed 80 lakh daily doses only on two days in October
unlike 10 such occasions in September.
(c) But, a whopping 10.78 crore doses lie unused with states and instead of accelerating, vaccination
coverage is slowing.
(d) Ironically, supplies are now thick on the ground.
(e) While 75% adults have received first vaccine doses, state health officials are worried about low
offtake of second doses.
(f) The onus of incentivising recipients thus lies entirely with state governments.
(g) On October 4, first and second dose coverage reached 70.1% and 26.3% of the adult population,
a 6.1 and 4.6 percentage point increase from 64% and 21.7% on September 20.
48. Which of the following pairs is the pair of the CONCLUDING statement and the
INTERMEDIATE statement respectively, after the correct rearrangement?
A. f a
B. c a
C. f d
D. c g

A. e g a
B. b a d
C. d c f

160
D. e a d
Directions(50-52): In the following question, a sentence is given with FOUR words marked as
(A), (B), (C) and (D). These words may or may not be placed at their correct places. Four
options with different arrangements of these words have been provided. Mark the option with
the correct arrangement as the answer. If no rearrangement is required, mark option (E) as
your answer.
50. In a clear (A)weekend to peace and (B)defence in the Indo-Pacific, China sent more than 100
warplanes into Taiwan’s air (C)stability identification zone over the (D)threat.
A. CBDA
B. BDAC
C. DCBA
D. CBDA
51. Much (A)ties can also be achieved in green technology, IT, digital healthcare and telecom; thus,
India would do well to abandon its cautious (B)cooperation and elevate (C)reasons with Taiwan
both for strategic and economic (D)approach.
A. BDAC
B. DBAC
C. ACBD
D. CBDA
52. India has done well in vaccination but the general (A)gains for (B)public in (C)masking could
end up robbing the (D)disregard.
A. CBDA
B. DCBA
C. ACBD
D. BDCA

161
The statement given in bold is fixed and the LAST statement. You are required to arrange the
(a) A consequence of this commodity price trend is that India’s inflation is displaying a peculiar
pattern.
(b) A firm trend in global commodity prices generally complicates economic policy in India.
(c) And at present, we are in the midst of a highly unusual situation.
(d) Over the last three months, headline inflation, or CPI, has declined.
(e) Commodities have become far more expensive this year while global growth impulses are both
uneven and not particularly strong.
(f) It was 4.35% in September following a sharp deceleration in food inflation.
(g) Because the country is a net importer of commodities.
(h) It’s peculiar because aggregate demand in India remains weak after household purchasing
power eroded.
53. Which of the following pairs is the pair of the ANTEPENULTIMATE statement and the
PENULTIMATE statement respectively?
A. f d
B. f a
C. d e
D. d a
54. Which of the following combinations is the combination of THREE CONSECUTIVE statements

162
A. g e a
B. e a d
C. b e h
D. a f h
The statement given in bold is fixed and the LAST statement. You are required to arrange the
(a) Two factors have had a significant influence behind this phenomenon.
(b) As reported, 3.67 lakh SUVs were sold in the June-September quarter as compared to 3.43 lakh
small cars.
(c) An entry-level SUV now costs only five times India’s pre-pandemic annual per capita income of
Rs 1.07 lakh.
(d) The ubiquitous small car in India is being displaced by SUVs.
(e) And, the demand for it has been met by the enhanced supply that’s come from an auto industry
which is fairly sophisticated for a lower middle income country.
(f) SUVs are getting more affordable.
(g) Manufacturers have responded to the potential by introducing stripped-down versions,

creating categories such as compact and subcompact SUVs.
55. Which of the following combinations is the combination of FOUR CONSECUTIVE statements,
A. d a f c
B. f c e g
C. a c e g
D. d a c e

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56. Which of the following pairs is the PAIR of the ANTEPENULTIMATE and the INTERMEDIATE
statement, respectively, after the correct rearrangement?
A. c f
B. e f
C. g a
D. c a
ANSWER
1.(Answer - D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
(a) The Indo-Gangetic plains remain central to the country’s air pollution problem, but the toxicity
has now spread to western and central Indian states such as Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
(b) Times change; so do the challenges they bring with them and this is why India is set to update
its national ambient air quality standards, which would consider more pollutants, including ultra-fine
particulate matter.)
2.(Answer - B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-4 & 2-3
(c) Air pollution can cause health predicaments including infections, behavioral changes, cancer
and premature death and these health effects are not equally distributed across the U.S population
(d) Interestingly, experts would also factor in India’s geographical position and meteorological
conditions.)
3. (Answer - C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-4 & 2-3
(e) As an outcome it has decreased the life expectancy of the residents by two to three years
compared to early 2000s.
(f) This is particularly relevant in light of recent reports like Air Quality Life Index, by the University
of Chicago, which shows that India’s air pollution levels have expanded geographically over time.)
The odd one is - statement (c)


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In statement c, the effects of air pollution on the US population has been discussed, whereas
in the entire passage, the referred country is India.)
5. (Answer - C. d f a
b d f a e )
(b) Times change; so do the challenges they bring with them and this is why India is set to update
its national ambient air quality standards, which would consider more pollutants, including ultra-fine
particulate matter.
(d) Interestingly, experts would also factor in India’s geographical position and meteorological
conditions.
(f) This is particularly relevant in light of recent reports like Air Quality Life Index, by the University
of Chicago, which shows that India’s air pollution levels have expanded geographically over time.
(a) The Indo-Gangetic plains remain central to the country’s air pollution problem, but the toxicity
has now spread to western and central Indian states such as Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
(e) As an outcome it has decreased the life expectancy of the residents by two to three years
compared to early 2000s.
(c) Air pollution can cause health predicaments including infections, behavioral changes, cancer
and premature death and these health effects are not equally distributed across the U.S population
6. (Answer - C. game-changers for higher education
The regulations are, therefore, being showcased as star recommendations of NEP and game-
changers for higher education.
Most importantly, they can facilitate students choosing their learning path to attain a degree,
diploma or certification with multiple entry-multiple exit options.)
7.(Answer - B. flexibility of curriculum framework
(d) The two regulations could change all this by promoting flexibility of curriculum framework,

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strengths, needs, skills, and interests.)
8.(Answer - D. education delivery system
The National Education Policy (NEP), released in July 2020, rightly observes that the education
delivery system in India is too structured, rigid and expensive.
Students tend to drop out because of its lack of relevance, its failing to sustain their interest or
because of affordability.)
9. (Answer - C. d c e
b f d c e a )
The author has explained everything so well and at the same time, he critically explains
everything.
explanatory - serving or intended to explain or make clear.

critical - characterized by careful evaluation.
vituperative - bitter and abusive.

The author hasn't been bitter and abusive.)
(b) The National Education Policy (NEP), released in July 2020, rightly observes that the education
delivery system in India is too structured, rigid and expensive.
(f) Students tend to drop out because of its lack of relevance, its failing to sustain their interest or
because of affordability.
(d) The two regulations could change all this by promoting flexibility of curriculum framework,
(c) Most importantly, they can facilitate students choosing their learning path to attain a degree,
diploma or certification with multiple entry-multiple exit options.
strengths, needs, skills, and interests.

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(a) The regulations are, therefore, being showcased as star recommendations of NEP and game-
changers for higher education.
11. (Answer - B. B
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, C and D are talking about
women in India being deprived of access to the Internet and the lesser number of women
using the Internet.
But, statement B is talking about a rural population (including men and women) deprived of
access to the Internet.)
12.(Answer - D. Only c
Only this statement is talking about women being deprived of access to the Internet.
Statement a - Incorrect. The term 'gap' is nonspecific.
Statement b - Incorrect. It doesn't show women being deprived of access to the Internet. It's
talking about every second 'person'.)
13.(Answer - B. B
This is slightly difficult.
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, C and D are encouraging
the fact that there is no moral obligation to care for animals like street dogs. This very
concept is subjective.
Hence, according to these statements animal welfare is purely subjective.
Statement A - The phrase 'rightly being forced to leave unowned dogs outside people’s
homes and on the streets' means, the statement doesn't disapprove unaccountability.
leaving unowned dogs outside people’s homes and on the streets is an example of
unaccountable behaviour.
But, statement B is supporting the fact that we have a moral obligation or responsibility to
care for street dogs.
Hence, it is the odd one.)
14. (Answer - A. Only c
The sentence which will be chosen must advocate the concept of not having an obligation to
serve animals.

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Only statement c is justifying that concept.
discretion - the freedom to decide what should be done in a particular situation.
We should use our discretion means THERE'S NO OBLIGATION.
Statement a - Incorrect. It's absolutely out of context.
Statement b - Incorrect. It's irrelevant, as it's talking about checking animal population, not
doing animal welfare.)
15. (Answer - C. a chunk of his glittering career
The decision, on the apparent, smacks of his dogged desire to become the batting colossus that he
has been for a chunk of his glittering career.
Now that he’s 33, on the brink of entering the final stretch of his career, he wants to be what he
was and what he always wanted to be.
on the brink of - to be very close to a specific outcome or condition.
glittering - bright.
dogged desire - stubborn desire.

colossus - a person or thing of enormous size, importance, or ability.)
16.(Answer - B. a part of his workload
In his quest for batting liberation, Virat Kohli has renounced a part of his workload.
In the past couple of century-less years, his longest drought without a century, Kohli’s batting
prowess had diminished, not immensely but incrementally.)
17. (Answer - C. leadership duties as a hindrance
The best batsman across formats, and he perhaps sees leadership duties as a hindrance to it, but
the puzzle remains whether quitting T20I captaincy would indeed reduce his burden.
Post the T20 World Cup in November, he would no longer lead his country in the shortest format.)
18. (Answer - A. f a d
b f a d c e )

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analytical / critical - based on or relating to an assessment to form an idea of the value of

something.
The author analyses Kohli’s decision throughout the passage.
sceptical - having doubts or reservations.

Refer to - The best batsman across formats, and he perhaps sees leadership duties as a hindrance
to it, but the puzzle remains whether quitting T20I captaincy would indeed reduce his burden.
In this particular statement, the author has expressed his doubts regarding Kohli’s decision.)
The last statement is - The best batsman across formats, and he perhaps sees leadership duties
as a hindrance to it, but the puzzle remains whether quitting T20I captaincy would indeed reduce his
burden.
That means, the author expressed doubt in the last line.
Hence, the sentence(s) that should come right after the last statement must support that
doubt and carry on that same tone.
Statements a and b are perfectly right choices.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's contradictory to the author's last statement because it's
supporting Kohli’s decision.)
21. (Answer - C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-3 & 2-4
(a) From exploring life on Mangal (Mars) to finding mangal (prosperity) in the lives of ordinary
citizens, Indian scientific endeavours always keep the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” at the
centre.
(b) As India celebrates National Science Day to recognise the importance of the discovery of
Raman’s effect by Nobel laureate C V Raman, I would like to pay homage and respect to him and all
the scientists across the country for giving us paradigms for a happy life.)
22. (Answer - D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
(c) The way Indian scientists responded to the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver a vaccine is a vibrant
example of our spirit of practising science for society and this spirit is also reflected in the National
Education Policy 2020; the policy places adequate emphasis on science, technology and
innovation.

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(d) The guidelines will cover social networks, digital media companies, and various platforms while
making the nation’s sovereign stance clear on matters of ethics and the protection of freedom of
expression of creators, publishers, and digital platform companies.)
23. (Answer - B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-4 & 2-3
(e) The policy envisages building a robust science, technology, and innovation ecosystem for the
country and accentuating translational research and this approach of science for society is the right
attitude for an Atmanirbhar Bharat.
(f) Scientists like Raman are pioneers and inspire generations; drawing inspiration from his work,
Indian scientists have made remarkable contributions in the different fields of natural and applied
sciences in modern times.)
24. (Answer - D. d
Statement d is talking about a completely different topic - digital media companies, and
various platforms - which has no link to the main theme of the passage.)
25. (Answer - B. f a c
b f a c e )
26.(Answer - C. affirmative actions
But forms of affirmative actions are only one factor in the country topping a World Economic Forum
index for gender equality for 12 years in a row.
Recent research indicates that this is because they are being displaced by male workers in the wake
of repeated macroeconomic shocks.)
27.
(Answer - A. their counterparts
Indian women know there are countries where their counterparts are doing much better.
For example, more than 50% women earn university degrees and women make up over 47% of the
total labour force.)
28.(Answer - D. the labour force
Indian women of course had been retreating from the labour force even before the pandemic.

170
Iceland just celebrated a female-majority parliament, even if a recount swiftly pushed the labourer
force to a less dramatic 48%.)
29.
(Answer - C. a c e
b f a c e d )
The weaker sections of society - WOMEN.
when the pie shrinks - when the economy is in jeopardy.
Statement a - Incorrect. 'reservation' has not been mentioned before.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's contradictory due to 'good economic policies and really invest in
proactive mentoring and recruitment of men.'
'women' must be focused on.)
comparative - measured or judged by estimating the similarity or dissimilarity between one thing
and another; relative.
The author has compared Indian women with the women of Iceland.
explanatory - informative.
queasy - anxious.
The author isn't anxious here.)
32. (Answer - D. D
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, B and C are talking about
a situation where managing things is easier and more convenient in rural areas than in urban
areas. In other words, rural areas have been described in a positive tone in statements A, B
and C.
But, statement D talks about rural areas with a negative tone.
Hence, it's the odd one out.)

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Only in statement a, there is a clear comparison between urban and rural areas and rural
areas have been portrayed in a positive tone.
Statement b - Incorrect. This statement has no comparison between urban and rural areas.
Statement c - Incorrect. Rural areas(villages) have been shown to be disadvantageous.)
34. (Answer - C. C
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, B and D talk about the
increase in the tiger population in a positive manner.
On the contrary, statement C is talking about the counting in a negative manner. It also
indicates a decrease in the population. Besides, it doubts the counting method.)
Only this statement talks about the increase in the tiger population.
Statements a and b talk about the counting method in a negative manner.)
Tone-based Odd One Out
36. (Answer - C. C
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, B and D have a
NARRATIVE tone.
Narrative - Telling the particulars of an act or occurrence or course of events.
But, statement C has a suggestive tone.

(it needs to……)
Suggestive / Instructive - serving to instruct.)
Both b and c don't have an INSTRUCTIVE tone, but statement a has.
The structure of statements a and b - a report.)
38.
(Answer - C. Both a and c
Refer to - The release of a new herbicide-tolerant rice variety by the Indian Agricultural Research
Institute (IARI)

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herbicide - a substance that is toxic to plants.

Hence, the rice can't be harmed by substances that are toxic to plants.
Refer to - that can be directly sown, instead of requiring transplantation, is therefore welcome.
Hence, the farming process of the rice is more direct or straightforward.
Statement b - Incorrect. It's nowhere written that the cultivation of this rice is less
arduous/difficult.)
(b) The IARI variety contains a mutated gene making the paddy plant “tolerant” to Imazethapyr, a
herbicide _________ against a wide range of _________.
weed - a wild plant growing where it is not wanted and in competition with cultivated plants.
[weeds are also defined in statement (c)]
fauna - the animals of a particular region, habitat, or geological period.

It's irrelevant.
toothless - ineffective.
vegetation - plants considered collectively, especially those found in a particular area or habitat.)
Farmers transplant and grow paddy in flooded fields mainly to control weeds, which cannot
That means their approach is preventative and repressing.
preventative - designed to keep something undesirable or harm from occurring.
repressing - restrictive.
Whether their approach was gainful or not, isn't defined in the above statement.
gainful - profitable.)
Refer to - This chemical when now sprayed will kill only the weeds,
selective - affecting some things and not others.

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prohibitive - preventive.
Of course, the chemical is preventive.
promotive - tending or serving to promote.

promote - contribute to the progress or growth of.
The chemical is surely contributing to the growth of the paddy.)
bump up / proliferate - increase.

yields - earnings.
tail off - to decrease.)
frugal - economical.
expeditious - efficient.
cost-effective - productive relative to the cost.
Refer to - Farmers would save about 30% water, Rs 3,000-per-acre labour costs and 10-15
days’ time from direct seeding.)
cut-price - costing less than standard price.
rock-bottom - well below normal in price.
cost-competitive - cheap compared to other similar products.
climate-resilient - having the ability to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to hazardous events,
trends, or disturbances related to climate.
climate-intense - It doesn't make sense.)
45. (Answer - C. b d f
e g a c b d f )
46. (Answer - B. c f h a
g b e d c f h a)
47(Answer - A. a g)
48. (Answer - A. f a

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e b g a d c f )
49. (Answer - C. d c f)
50. (Answer - C. DCBA
In a clear threat to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, China sent more than 100 warplanes into
Taiwan’s air defence identification zone over the weekend.)
51. (Answer - A. BDAC
Much cooperation can also be achieved in green technology, IT, digital healthcare and telecom;
thus, India would do well to abandon its cautious approach and elevate ties with Taiwan both for
strategic and economic reasons.)
52. (Answer - B. DCBA
India has done well in vaccination but the general disregard for masking in public could end up
robbing the gains.
rob the gains - spoil the things that are achieved or acquired.)
The pair is - d f
b g c e a d f h )
54. (Answer - B. e a d)
55. (Answer - B. f c e g

d b a f c e g)
56. (Answer - A. c f)

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CHAPTER-5
WORDS SWAP
Direction(1-3): In the question below, a sentence is given with five words highlighted in bold
and alphabetized. Four of these words need to be interchanged to make the sentence
coherent and one word needs to be replaced with another word provided in the options. From
the options, choose the correct arrangement of the four words and the correct replacement of
the fifth word.
1. In the long (A)censoring, (B)outsiders the (C)run of myriad cultures by (D)justice won’t promote
social (E)exploration but it will stifle (F)obtuseness.
A. CAEBD; obtuseness - creativity

B. ACBDF; exploration - experiment
C. CAFBE; justice - people
D. FAECD; outsiders - creators
2. Human (A)antibiotics and the health of our planet are inextricably linked and flourishing natural
(B)goods and the wise (C)unenlightenment of public (D)wellness like (E)systems is key for both
our health and that of our planet.
A. BDAC; systems - awareness

B. DEBA; unenlightenment - stewardship
C. ACED; goods - resources
D. BEAC; wellness - health
3. America is a blessedly prodigal nation; it throws away 40% of the food crowding its supermarket
shelves and home (A)marketplace ; it also stocks its (B)ladder of international (C)territories with
(D)acquisitions, peoples and properties, cleaning out the (E)freezers of the nations.
A. BDAC; freezers - litters

B. CBED; marketplace - ambience
C. ECBA; acquisitions - encroachment
D. EDCA; ladder - larder
Direction(4-5): In each of the following questions below, a sentence has been broken into four
parts with one word highlighted in bold in each fragment. From the given options, identify the

176
word which expresses a meaning opposite to the given sentence, with the highlighted word
replaced by a word of the opposite meaning.
4. The relocation / will not cause him immense hardship / and nor is it reasonable to expect / him
to relocate.
A. parting
B. contentment
C. abnegate
D. hide
5. Rumours that / he had been suspended swept across the centre / two weeks ago, but the
shopping centre's management company / refused to admit the claims.
A. Facts
B. censored
C. afterward
D. consented
the fifth word.
6. In (1)response that the (2)gathering could have been a panic (3)conjecturing of some officers to
an unexpected (4)firing, the two inquiries give the paramilitary (5)vehemence some benefit of
doubt.
A. 3412; vehemence - force

B. 1542; conjecturing - reaction
C. 2153; firing - event
D. 3452; response - reality
7. Researchers at ETH Zurich have found that certain minerals responsible for water (1)aromas can
cause a (2)hardness to appear on the surface of tea, thus (3)dislodging (4)depletion that might

177
otherwise escape and cause a (5)film of flavour; meaning that the purer the water, the less tasty
your tea.
A. 4321; film - burst

B. 2514; dislodging - trapping
C. 3512; depletion - flavours
D. 1354; hardness - layer
the fifth word.
8. In the traditional financial (M)sachet, the (N)contrive and distribution (O)merchandise on

financial (P)cost at (Q)system size is high.
A. QPOM; contrive - design

B. MPON; system - small
C. ONQP; sachet - management
D. NOMQ; cost - pressure
9. Financial (M)unenlightenment and technology (N)issues are two critical (O)individuals; financial
education assists (P)conclusions in making sound financial (Q)readiness.
A. QNOP; unenlightenment - literacy

B. PNOM; readiness - decisions
C. MOPQ; issues - advancement
D. NPMQ; individuals - controversies
F.
Direction(10-12): In the question below, a pair of homophones is given, followed by three
sentences in each of which one of the two homophones will fit. From the options below,
choose the correct order of the homophones that will fit in the sentences.
10.
A - pale
B - pail

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a. The new cheese is a ________ imitation of continental cheeses.

b. Pouring warm milk from the ________ into a mug, she sighed and frowned, unsettled.
c. The numbers on the clock flashed luminous green onto the ________ shade of his bedside
lamp.
A. BBA B. ABA C. AAB D. BAB E. None of the above options
11.
A - peak
B - peek
a. He dared to sneak a quick ________ at the judge and saw that there were tears in her eyes.
b. Package holiday sales hit a ________ of around 12 million.
c. She just wanted to ________ inside quickly to see who it was.
12.
A - sole
B - soul
a. There was mud caked between the heel and the _______.
b. My _______ aim was to contribute to the national team.
c. The choice of material is excellent and the performance is saturated with ________.
Directions(13-14): In each of the questions given below, four words are given in bold. These
four words may or may not be in their correct position. The sentence is then followed by
options with the correct combination of words that should replace each other in order to
make the sentence grammatically and contextually correct. Find the correct combination of
words that replace each other. If the sentence is correct as it is, select ‘E’ as your option.

179
13. The state government will also announce on October 15 a judicial (a)charge into the police
(b)burning on Chowk Mehta on September 20, the (c)firing of two buses in Ohandu Kalan and the
lathi (d)inquiry in Amritsar Khalsa College.
A. Both a-b and c-d

B. Only c-d
C. Only a-c
D. Both b-c and a-d
14. I write today, not as a (a)sentiment but as a (b)ground of Srinagar, who spent most of the last
few weeks in the city seeking to understand the (c)pedagogue on the (d)denizen.
A. Both a-c and b-d

B. Both a-d and b-c
C. Only a-d
D. Only b-d
Directions(15- 17): In each of the questions given below, three/four words are given in bold.
These four words may or may not be in their correct position. The sentence is then followed
by options with the correct combination of words that should replace each other in order to
15. The Shankaracharya hill gives you an astounding (m)shrines of the densely packed city, with its
(n)heritage, temples and churches, but the hill is also a reminder of the city’s ancient (o)view and
atavistic (p)roots.
A. ponm
B. mpon
C. ompn
D. pnom
16. The (m)body of rural local (n)arrival polls in nine reorganised districts in Tamil Nadu could hint
at the (o)result of a new (p)star in state politics.
A. n o m p
B. p n m o

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C. m n p o
D. o m n p
17. This technology-led integrated approach could help align all (m)clearances, ease the
(n)departments with attaining (o)problems, and bring about greater coordinated action across
government (p)stakeholders.
A. pomn
B. mpon
C. nopm
D. pnom
Directions(18-20): In the following question, a sentence is given with FOUR words marked as
(A), (B), (C) and (D). These words may or may not be placed at their correct places. Four
your answer.
18. In 2015, the government made efforts to bring in (A)competitive changes in the way credit lines
work; these reforms have strived to block (B)functional operators and promote the most
(C)transparent Indian firms that are being identified with a (D)fly-by-night bidding and tendering
process.
A. CDAB
B. BDAC
C. ACBD
D. DCBA
19. To become a leading (A)viable investor in commercially (B)attractive and financially (C)leading
public-private partnership infrastructure projects, the fund may build an investment ecosystem in
Africa with support from (D)strategic Indian firms.
A. BDAC

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B. CDBA
C. DABC
D. ACBD
20. The (A)chain from policymakers was a key (B)direction in providing (C)catalyst and speed to
the vaccine yatra; our vaccine supply (D)allegiance is now rapidly expanding.
A. DCBA
B. BDAC
C. CDBA
D. DABC
ANSWERS:
1. (Answer - A. CAEBD; obtuseness - creativity
In the long run, censoring the exploration of myriad cultures by outsiders won’t promote social
justice but it will stifle creativity.
obtuseness - the quality of being slow to understand.)
2.(Answer - B. DEBA; unenlightenment - stewardship
Human wellness and the health of our planet are inextricably linked and flourishing natural systems
and the wise stewardship of public goods like antibiotics is key for both our health and that of our
planet.
stewardship - the job of supervising or taking care of something, such as an organization or

property.
unenlightenment - ignorance.)
3.(Answer - D. EDCA; ladder - larder
America is a blessedly prodigal nation; it throws away 40% of the food crowding its supermarket
shelves and home freezers; it also stocks its larder of international acquisitions with territories,
peoples and properties, cleaning out the marketplace of the nations.
larder - a room or large cupboard for storing food.


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acquisition - the buying or obtaining of assets or objects.)
4. (Answer - B. contentment
Only the word 'contentment' will change the meaning of the entire sentence and make it
opposite to what it's originally written.
contentment - comfort.
hardship - pain.
parting - farewell or leave.

abnegate - renounce or reject (something desired or valuable).
5.(Answer - D. consented
Only the word 'consented' will change the meaning of the entire sentence and make it
opposite to what it's originally written.
consent - to accept.
'suspended' and 'censored' are almost synonymous.
'afterwards' may be opposite of 'ago', but this will not matter in making the overall tone
opposite.)
6. (Answer - A. 3412; vehemence - force
In conjecturing that the firing could have been a panic response of some officers to an unexpected
gathering, the two inquiries give the paramilitary force some benefit of doubt.
conjecture - form an opinion or supposition about (something) on the basis of incomplete
information.
vehemence - great forcefulness or intensity of feeling or expression.)
7.(Answer - B. 2514; dislodging - trapping
Researchers at ETH Zurich have found that certain minerals responsible for water hardness can
cause a film to appear on the surface of tea, thus trapping aromas that might otherwise escape
and cause a depletion of flavour; meaning that the purer the water, the less tasty your tea.
hardness - the cohesion of the particles on the surface of a mineral as determined by its capacity to
scratch another or be itself scratched.)
8.(Answer - A. QPOM; contrive - design

In the traditional financial system, the design and distribution cost on financial merchandise at
sachet size is high.

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contrive - it's a verb.

It means - to design.
merchandise (plural) - products.

sachet - a small sealed bag or packet containing a small quantity of something.)
9.(Answer - A. QNOP; unenlightenment - literacy
conclusions - decisions.)
Financial literacy and technology readiness are two critical issues; financial education assists
individuals in making sound financial conclusions.
10. (Answer - B. ABA
pale - i) inferior or unimpressive. (statement a)

ii) light in colour or shade; containing little colour or pigment. (statement c)
pail - a bucket.)
11. (Answer - D. BAB
peek - (verb) - look quickly or furtively.

(noun) - a quick or furtive look.
peak - the point of highest activity, quality, or achievement.)
12. (Answer - C. AAB
sole - i) the section forming the underside of a piece of footwear (typically excluding the heel when
this forms a distinct part) (statement a)
(adj) ii) one and only.(statement b)
soul - emotional or intellectual energy or intensity, especially as revealed in a work of art or an

artistic performance.)
13. (Answer - D. Both b-c and a-d
The state government will also announce on October 15 a judicial inquiry into the police firing on
Chowk Mehta on September 20, the burning of two buses in Ohandu Kalan and the lathi charge in
Amritsar Khalsa College.

184
lathi charge - an occasion when a large group of police run forward in an attacking movement
carrying their sticks.)
14. (Answer - A. Both a-c and b-d
I write today, not as a pedagogue but as a denizen of Srinagar, who spent most of the last few
weeks in the city seeking to understand the sentiment on the ground.
pedagogue - academic or educator.

denizen - resident.)
15. (Answer - C. o m p n
The Shankaracharya hill gives you an astounding view of the densely packed city, with its shrines,
temples and churches, but the hill is also a reminder of the city’s ancient roots and atavistic
heritage.
shrine - holy place.
atavistic - ancient.)
16. (Answer - D. o m n p
The result of rural local body polls in nine reorganised districts in Tamil Nadu could hint at the
arrival of a new star in state politics.)
17. (Answer - A. p o m n
This technology-led integrated approach could help align all stakeholders, ease the problems with
attaining clearances, and bring about greater coordinated action across government departments.
stakeholder - a person with an interest or concern in something, especially a business.

clearance - official authorization for something to proceed or take place.)
18. (Answer - B. BDAC
In 2015, the government made efforts to bring in functional changes in the way credit lines work;
these reforms have strived to block fly-by-night operators and promote the most competitive Indian
firms that are being identified with a transparent bidding and tendering process.
fly-by-night - unreliable or untrustworthy, especially in business or financial matters.

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fictional - operational.)
19. (Answer - C. DABC
To become a leading strategic investor in commercially viable and financially attractive public-
private partnership infrastructure projects, the fund may build an investment ecosystem in Africa with
support from leading Indian firms.
viable - capable of working successfully; feasible.)
20. (Answer - A. DCBA
The allegiance from policymakers was a key catalyst in providing direction and speed to the
vaccine yatra; our vaccine supply chain is now rapidly expanding.
allegiance - commitment.
catalyst - a thing or event that evokes a specific functional reaction.)
CHAPTER-6
SITUATION PARAGRAPH
Direction(1-2): In the following question, a situation is given, followed by three options, each
containing a few words that may or may not accurately describe the situation. Choose the
option(s) that correctly describe(s) the situation.
1.
Situation 1
Another mysterious disease has been reported from Mathura — like Firozabad, a part of the Agra
division. Officials here talk of “some deaths” caused by scrub typhus — a vector-borne disease
caused by bacteria and with proven links to poor hygiene and sanitation. Mathura and Firozabad are

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part of the UP government’s “smart city” plans. Clearly, the administration in these areas have a long
way to go in being alert to peoples’ well-being.
a. irresponsible, lifestyle
b. unusual, viral
c. unhealthfulness, negligent
2.
Situation 2
As a grim situation unfolds in Afghanistan, particularly in Kabul, post the withdrawal of foreign troops,
the world stares at a humanitarian crisis. Countries with their citizens stranded in Afghanistan are
burning the midnight oil to ensure their safe evacuation. Since August 16, over 800 Indians have
been evacuated back under “Operation Devi Shakti”. Indian Armed Forces are engaged in
evacuating not just Indians but also foreign nationals.
a. endeavours, accommodative
b. nationalistic, protection
c. plight, emptying
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and c D. Only b E. All a, b and c
Direction(3-4): In the following question, a situation is given, followed by three options, each
3.
Situation 1
Last week, the Delhi government celebrated an act of mass surveillance, issuing a press release that
is proud regarding its achievements, as reported in ‘Delhi ahead of NY, London in terms of CCTV
cameras installed per sq. mile’. The press release marks the CCTV installation as a competitive
metric based on a study by the consumer research website Comparitech. It notes that Delhi has
1,826 CCTVs per square mile, ranking it above 150 global cities.

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a. grand celebration, superior

b. first-rate, exultation
c. self-congratulatory, publicize
4.
Situation 2
When his students came forward to celebrate Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday after he became
the president of India, he politely declined and said, ''If you want to celebrate, please do it as
Teachers’ Day''. Although Radhakrishnan held the highest post in the state, teaching remained
something that was regarded as more important than others.
a. conceited, label
b. commemorate, ennobling
c. priority, meek
Direction(5-): In the following question, a situation is given, followed by three options, each
There is one question for each of the situations. You've to answer that also.
5.
Situation 1
Geography has given Pakistan a pivotal role in Afghanistan. Yet, Rawalpindi has been unable to turn
it into a sustainable political sway over Afghanistan. Neither the creation of Afghan proxies nor the
massive assistance from the great powers has helped Pakistan transcend its structural limitations in
Afghanistan. The story this time is not likely to be any different.
a. non-fulfilment; ineffectual
b. waste; unconvincing
c. regional; triumph

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6. How would you describe Pakistan, as expressed in the above paragraph?
a. uninfluential
b. abortive
c. antagonistic
7.
Situation 2
What seems increasingly likely is that we will need to learn to live with the virus because it is
becoming endemic, which simply means it will always be amongst us. This is the time for a national
conversation, with public health experts joining up with social scientists, political leaders, businesses
and representatives of civil society, to figure out how we, as one people, can soldier forward with
solidarity for all sections of our diverse population.
a. unanimity; acclimatize
b. perpetual; consultation
c. permanent; optimism
8. How would you describe the author's tone(s) in the above context?
a. consultative
b. sensible
c. unquiet
9.
Situation 3

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On Monday, the government banned 59 mobile applications with Chinese links such as TikTok, UC
Browser, Shareit, and Cam Scanner. The decision, which comes amid continuing tensions between
India and China, after the killing of 20 Indian soldiers on the Line of Actual Control, is the first clear
message from New Delhi that it will review the rules of engagement. This is an interim order and
firms have been given 48 hours to respond to questions on their compliance with data security and
privacy.
a. retaliation; bold
b. unyielding; evoked
c. proscribe; deadline
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both b and c D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
10. How would you describe the author's tone in the above context?
a. obstinate
b. demanding
c. expositive
A. Both b and c B. Only c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
11.
Situation 4
Canada celebrates its National Day on July 1. I extend my warmest greetings to the people and the
government of Canada on this occasion. I also take this as an opportunity to look at the extremely
great possibility of the process of working together between India and Canada, especially in the area
of education, a sector that is closest to my heart.
a. collaboration; observance
b. immense; welcome
c. attachment, enlightenment

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a. buoyant
b. salutational
c. wishful
Direction(13-18): In the following question, a situation is given, followed by three options,

each containing a few words that may or may not accurately describe the situation. Choose
the option(s) that correctly describe(s) the situation.
13.
Situation 1
The Constitution of India accords official status to 22 languages. Thousands of others exist in spite of
the fact that they're not officially authorized. An illustration of this was evident in the findings of an
analysis of the 2011 census by a Delhi-based academic. The highest number of languages are
spoken in the district of Bangalore, including 22 scheduled and 84 non-scheduled languages. The
findings are increasing confidence, particularly because the multitude of tongues in a district’s
speaking population contributes directly to the long existence of these languages.
a. numerous, unauthorized
b. adventitious, variety
c. longevity, heartening
14. Which of the following statements most appropriately justify the fact that the reports are
heartening?
a. Many languages, when spoken by many, are likely to remain existent for a long time.
b. A language when being made available to everyone, its survival chance increases.
c. The number of existing languages is directly proportional to the amount of time they're going
to stay relevant.

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15.
Situation 2
Worryingly, India’s universities have to deal with diverse adversities. The paucity of funds, periodic
interventions in curriculum and the pandemic are some such examples. To this long list must now be
added the vector of centralization that seeks to impose the unilateral views of the authority on an
entire centre of learning through a vice-chancellor who is easily influenced or directed.
a. hassles, pliant
b. augmentation, the powers that be
c. bankruptcy, hurdles
a. Concerned
b. Censorious
c. Suggestive
A. Only b B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both b and c E. All a, b and c
17.
Situation 3
The use of criminal contempt against members of the bar by the bench has become a usual thing,
over the last decade. From something as small as a tweet to actions as necessary as strikes, all are
clubbed with conduct which is scandalising or lowers the authority of any court. This is done without
scrutinising whether the authority of the court was being exercised within the confines of legality and
whether the intent of the members of the bar was to scandalise or lower the authority of the court.
___________________________
a. commonplace, unverified
b. justness, derogatory
c. combined, improper

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A. Both a and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both b and c E. All a, b and c
context?
a. The objective appears to be to create an atmosphere of fear among members of the bar.
b. This cannot further the majesty of a judicial institution, because respect cannot be demanded;
it must be commanded.
c. It appears that over the past decade, the relationship between the bar and bench has gone
from one of mutual respect and equality to the one between ruler and ruled.

Situation 19
Like many Americans, 9/11 is a day I won’t forget. I was 33, living in West Los Angeles, trapped in
an abusive relationship and too underpaid to move out on my own. As had become my habit, I was
sleeping on the futon with my dog, Ms Oppenheimer. As I was waking up, I saw the news coverage
of the first tower falling. I thought it was a movie. Like many Americans, the trajectory of my life
changed for both the good and the bad.
a. disbelief, haunting
b. shocking, indolent
c. misery, consequential
A. Both b and c B. Both a and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
Situation 20
Up from four at Rio to 19 medals at the Tokyo Paralympics is a leap of epic proportions.
Unfortunately, little has changed at the grassroots in India, from where most international medal

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winners come. Para sports persons, with some exceptions, continue to be denied entry to major
sporting facilities and there has been no tangible attempt to enhance support systems for them.
a. inequity, unavailing
b. non-acceptance, inaction
c. below the belt, impressive
Situation 21
As the country has grappled with insurgencies, from Kashmir and Punjab, to the Northeast and
Maoist-affected areas, the security forces have often invited accusations of strong-arm tactics and
heavy-handed conduct. The men in uniform claim they had no option but to open fire; the victims are
then accused of being insurgents, who had launched an attack in the first place. The veracity of such
accounts has been challenged in multiple cases and inquiries have revealed that a trigger-happy
force had trained their guns on innocents.
a. discrepancy, unjust
b. allegation, unlawful
c. violent, accordant
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Both b and c E. All a, b and c

Situation 22
When I spotted Sonal Shukla for the first time in the 1980s, I thought she was the best singer in the
world. A feisty woman all pumped up and hollering at the top of her voice during a protest in Mumbai.
Around her were a ragtag army of women marchers. Her finest moment was the Forum Against
Rape movement — spontaneously formed by 49 women who connected over an open letter signed
by Upendra Baxi and three others about the injustice in the Mathura rape case judgment by the
Supreme Court.
a. fortitude, crusade
b. courage, disbelief
c. integrity, dissent

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A. Both a and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both b and c E. All a, b and c
Situation 23
Six IITs are now among the top 20 management institutions in the country, some even improving
faster than reputed business schools such as IIM-Indore and IIM-Lucknow — proof that India’s
premier engineering schools are not content to remain just that. The signs of a more expansive
vision of education, that looks beyond tech to embrace the world of humanities and law, arts and
architecture, have been evident at the IITs for a while now.
a. overpace, comprehensive
b. over-ambitious, explore
c. aboveboard, manifold
Situation 24
In the aftermath of the recent US withdrawal from Afghanistan, Fariba Nawa, an Afghan-American
journalist, said in a tweet, “Congrats that you wrote a book and you have a few Afghan friends on the
ground. And now you’re a superstar because you embedded with the TB [the Taliban] or government
forces. You were super brave. But you don’t represent us. You don’t have anything [to] lose. We do.”
Nawa was responding to writing on Afghanistan by non-Afghans, of scholarly or journalistic expertise
from around the world.
a. blatant, caustic remark
b. verbalise, reaction
c. arrogance, retaliation

25.
Situation 1
Guzman was one among the Maoist leaders who emerged in the Third World in the 1960s. Inspired
by Maoism, they dreamed of organising peasants and encircling the cities. But ideological blindness

195
and the use of mindless violence to achieve goals alienated them from the very people they wished
to liberate, and turned them into terror outfits. As in the case of many extremist groups in Latin
America, the Shining Path was crushed by the might of the state and its leaders were eliminated or
sent to prison.
a. hindered, isolate
b. slaughter, reasonless
c. unintellectual, dominated
26.
Situation 2
The past few years have apparently not been good to Indian democracy, hailed globally as the
largest democracy in the world. It has performed poorly in every major global democracy report
during this period. This is troubling news for the future, for several reasons.
a. underachieve, bad omen

b. disappointing, erstwhile
c. hopeless, felicitous

27.
Situation 3
India wishes to accelerate the progress of its free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations with several
countries like the UK, Australia, the European Union, and Canada. As part of these discussion aimed
at reaching an agreement, India has shown a great amount of eagerness and enthusiasm to
conclude an “early harvest” trade deal with some of these countries, liberalising tariffs on select
goods. Many commentators react with pleasure to India’s rethink on FTA since it marks a departure
from the trade protectionism that India has been practising over the past few years.
a. negotiations, fast-track
b. welcome, keen
c. perfunctory, trend
A. Only a B. Both a and b C. Only b D. Both b and c E. All a, b and c


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28.
Situation 1
Insects offer particular benefits to those who want to reduce their environmental footprint, because
they are exceptionally efficient in converting what they eat into tissue that can be consumed by
others — about twice as efficient as chicken and pigs, and more than five times as efficient as beef
cattle.
Factoring in their astounding reproduction rates and the ability to produce an abundance of offspring,
the actual food conversion efficiency of insects may be 20 times that of cattle. Moreover, insects feed
only on a far wider range of plants than conventional livestock.
a. expeditious, herbivore
b. superior, fecundity
c. palatable, beneficial
29. How would you describe the insects as described in the above context?
a. adaptive
b. plenteous
c. edible
30.
Situation 2
According to our study, NEET has reduced the number of Class XII students getting admitted to
medical colleges. Only students who attended coaching classes for two or three years could get
admission. Very few “first-generation” students could clear NEET. It shows that the wealthy and
powerful have rigged the system of NEET to perpetuate their privilege. The professional classes
have figured out how to pass their advantage to their children, converting meritocracy into hereditary

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aristocracy. There cannot be a competition between a race-horse and a “cart-pulling” horse.

_____________________________
a. despotism, constricted
b. distinct, injustice
c. undue, manipulation
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both b and c D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
paragraph?
The sentence(s) should justify the last statement of the paragraph.
a. Rarely are persons from metropolises willing to serve in remote villages.

b. Every student entering medical colleges does not become an expert in their field.
c. The rural and urban poor cannot spend lakhs of rupees to get coached for NEET.
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only c D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
32.
Situation 3
The UK’s new post-Covid travel rules, announced last week and slated to become effective from
October 4, have been criticised as discriminatory towards travellers from India. The list of countries
whose vaccines are recognised in the UK does not include India. This means that Indian travellers,
who have received both doses of Covishield, will have to quarantine themselves after arriving in the
UK, even though the Serum Institute of India-manufactured vaccine is a variant of the Oxford-
AstraZeneca jab. Congress leaders have called the move a humiliation of the world’s largest vaccine
manufacturer.
a. biased, exclusion
b. below the belt, approval
c. restriction, disregard
A. Both b and c B. Both a and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c

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33. How are the UK's new post-Covid travel rules, from the author's viewpoint?
a. Biased
b. Demeaning
c. Unfavorable
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. None of a, b and c

There is one more question associated with each of the situations. You've to answer
accordingly.
34.
Situation 1
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched PM Gati Shakti, a National Master Plan for
multi-modal connectivity. The scope of the government’s latest initiative is covering a wide area in
terms of scope, the targets ambitious. It will integrate road, railway, airport and multi-modal
connectivity projects across the country, incorporating a range of existing infrastructure projects of
the government such as Bharatmala, Sagarmala, inland waterways, dry/land ports, and UDAN. It
promises to greatly enhance the national highway as well as the electricity transmission networks.
a. expansive, unifying
b. revolutionary, development
c. advantageous, inauguration
35. How would you describe the government's latest initiative?
a. comprehensive
b. unorthodox
c. instrumental

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36.
Situation 2
While releasing prisoners in view of the Covid-19 pandemic, the high-powered committee mandated
by the Supreme Court of India to decongest detention centres did not invoke the health
vulnerabilities of prisoners but recalled the crimes they were accused of committing. It is also
common knowledge that the experience of the state of being confined in prison in Indian prisons
does not depend on the crime individuals are accused of committing, but on the social status and
power of the prisoners. ________________________________________
a. malnutrition, delinquency
b. incarceration, influence
c. penitentiary, lawbreaker
37. Which of the following statements can fit in the blank in the above context?
a. Both these seemingly unconnected realities reflect one principle — that legal practices and
discussions in the public sphere continue to favour the privileged.
b. Many suffer continued incarceration even after securing bail, simply for the lack of surety or
inability to pay cash bail.
c. The lack of compassion is not only a feature of the criminal justice system, withholding
compassion from certain categories of human beings has become a hallmark of majoritarian
nationalism.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
ANSWER:
irresponsible and negligent - Refer to - Clearly, the administration in these areas have a long
way to go in being alert to peoples’ well-being.

200
lifestyle and unhealthfulness - Refer to - Officials here talk of “some deaths” caused by scrub
typhus — a vector-borne disease caused by bacteria and with proven links to poor hygiene and
sanitation.
The disease mentioned above is bacterial, not viral.)
endeavours - Refer to - Countries with their citizens stranded in Afghanistan are burning the
midnight oil to ensure their safe evacuation.
accommodative - helpful.
Refer to - Indian Armed Forces are engaged in evacuating not just Indians but also foreign
nationals.
plight - crisis and suffering.

emptying - evacuation.)
first-rate - quite well.

Refer to - It notes that Delhi has 1,826 CCTVs per square mile, ranking it above 150 global cities.
exultation - a feeling of triumphant elation or jubilation; rejoicing.
self-congratulatory - unduly complacent or proud regarding one's personal achievements or

qualities; self-satisfied.
Refer to - Last week, the Delhi government celebrated an act of mass surveillance, issuing a press
release that is proud regarding its achievements, as reported in ‘Delhi ahead of NY, London in
terms of CCTV cameras installed per sq.
publicize - make (something) widely known; report.

Refer to - The press release marks the CCTV installation as a competitive metric based on a study
by the consumer research website Comparitech.
grand - magnificent and imposing in appearance, size, or style.

No such thing is mentioned.)
4. (Answer - B. Both b and c

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commemorate - mark or celebrate (an event or person) by doing or producing something.

Refer to - When his students came forward to celebrate Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday
ennobling - dignified and honoured.

Refer to - ''If you want to celebrate, please do it as Teachers’ Day''.
priority - Refer to - teaching remained something that was regarded as more important than
others.
meek - humble and gentle.

Refer to - he politely declined and said,
conceited - excessively proud of oneself; vain.

He was exactly the opposite.)
non-fulfilment - failure to fulfil or carry out something desired.
Refer to - Yet, Rawalpindi has been unable to turn it into a sustainable political sway over
Afghanistan.
ineffectual - not producing any significant or desired effect.

waste - fail to make full or good use of.
Refer to - Refer to - Neither the creation of Afghan proxies nor the massive assistance from the
great powers has helped Pakistan transcend its structural limitations in Afghanistan.
unconvincing - unlikely.
triumph - success.
No such thing is mentioned in the above context.)
uninfluential - having little or no influence.

Yes, Pakistan has been having little or no influence.
abortive - failing to produce the intended result.

Yes, Pakistan has been unsuccessful in producing the intended result.
antagonistic - showing or feeling active opposition or hostility towards someone or something.

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No such thing is mentioned in the above context.)
unanimity - agreement by all people involved; consensus.
conciliation - discussion.
Refer to - This is the time for a national conversation, with public health experts joining up with social
scientists, political leaders, businesses and representatives of civil society, to figure out how we, as
one people, can soldier forward with solidarity for all sections of our diverse population.
acclimatize - become accustomed to a new climate or new conditions; adjust.

Refer to - What seems increasingly likely is that we will need to learn to live with the virus
because it is becoming endemic, which simply means it will always be amongst us.
perpetual - permanent.
Refer to - which simply means it will always be amongst us.
optimism - hopefulness and confidence about the future or the success of something.
No such hope has been expressed.)
consultative - giving advice.
sensible - reasonable.
The author carefully and logically evaluates the situation.
unquiet - worried.
The author hasn't been worried or anxious.
unyielding - strict and bold.

Rede to - This is an interim order and firms have been given 48 hours to respond to questions on
their compliance with data security and privacy.
evoked - induced.
Refer to - The decision, which comes amid continuing tensions between India and China, after the
killing of 20 Indian soldiers on the Line of Actual Control,

203
proscribe - to ban.
deadline - time limit.

Refer to - This is an interim order and firms have been given 48 hours to respond..
retaliation - revenge.
No such thing is mentioned. You can't use your emotions.)
The author is just describing the government's decision.

He hasn't been judgemental.
Hence, options a and b are eliminated.
expositive - descriptive.
obstinate - stubborn.
demanding - strict.)
11.
collaboration - the process of working together.
immense - extremely great.
Refer to - the extremely great possibility of the process of working together between India and
Canada
observance - celebration.
welcome - greetings.
attachment - Refer to - especially in the area of education, a sector that is closest to my heart.
enlightenment - education.)
buoyant - cheerful and optimistic.

salutational - indicating respect, greeting and affection.

204
wishful - having or expressing a desire or hope for something to happen.)
numerous - many.
unauthorized - unofficial.
Refer to - The Constitution of India accords official status to 22 languages. Thousands of others
exist in spite of the fact that they're not officially authorized.
longevity - long life.

heartening - increasing confidence;
Refer to - The findings are increasing confidence, particularly because the multitude of tongues in
a district’s speaking population contributes directly to the long existence of these languages.
adventitious - coming from outside; not native.

It doesn't make sense.)
Refer to - The findings are increasing confidence, particularly because the multitude of tongues in
a district’s speaking population contributes directly to the long existence of these languages.
Options b and c are irrelevant and out of scope.)
hassles - inconveniences and hurdles.

Refer to - India’s universities have to deal with diverse adversities.
pliant - disposed to agree with others or obey rules, especially to an excessive degree.
Refer to - a vice-chancellor who is easily influenced or directed.
augmentation - the action or process of making or becoming greater in size or amount.
Refer to - To this long list must now be added the vector of centralization that seeks to impose
the unilateral views of the authority on an entire centre of learning through a vice-chancellor who is
easily influenced or directed.
the powers that be (phrase) - the authority.


205
Refer to - the unilateral views of the authority;
bankruptcy - the state of being insolvent.

The author has shown his concerns about the hurdles India's universities have to deal with,
and at the same time, he is being critical of the authority in the last part of the context.)
17. (Answer - A. Both a and c
commonplace - not unusual; ordinary.

Refer to - The use of criminal contempt against members of the bar has become a usual thing, over
the last decade.
unverified - not verified.

Refer to - This is done without scrutinising whether the authority of the court was being exercised
within the confines of legality and whether the intent of the members of the bar was to scandalise or
lower the authority of the court.
combined - Refer to - From something as small as a tweet to actions as necessary as strikes, all
are clubbed with conduct which is scandalising or lowers the authority of any court.
improper - not in accordance with accepted standards, especially of morality or honesty.

Refer to - This is done without scrutinising whether the authority of the court was being exercised
within the confines of legality and whether the intent of the members of the bar was to scandalise or
lower the authority of the court.
justness - justice.
No such thing is mentioned.
derogatory - showing a critical or disrespectful attitude.)
All these statements are clearly justifying the injustice being down to the bar members by the
bench.)

206
disbelief - inability or refusal to accept that something is true or real.

Refer to - I saw the news coverage of the first tower falling. I thought it was a movie.
haunting - unforgettable.
Refer to - Like many Americans, 9/11 is a day I won’t forget.
misery - unhappiness.
Refer to - trapped in an abusive relationship and too underpaid to move out on my own.
consequential - having important issues or results.

Refer to - Like many Americans, the trajectory of my life changed for both the good and the bad.
The words 'indolent' can't be derived from the context.
indolent - lazy.)
inequity - lack of fairness or justice.
unavailing - producing no result or effect.

(Refer to - Unfortunately, little has changed at the grassroots in India, from where most international
medal winners come.
That means, the stellar performance was unable to bring any changes.)
non-acceptance - denial.
(Refer to - Para sports persons, with some exceptions, continue to be denied entry to major
sporting facilities…
inaction - inactivity.
Refer to - there has been no tangible attempt to enhance support systems for them.
below the belt - unfair.
impressive - spectacular.
Refer to - Up from four at Rio to 19 medals at the Tokyo Paralympics is a leap of epic proportions.)
21. (Answer - A. Both a and b
discrepancy - mismatch or inconsistency.

Refer to - The veracity of such accounts has been challenged in multiple cases and inquiries
have revealed that a trigger-happy force had trained their guns on innocents.

207
That means, the statements of the force and the truth don't match.
unjust - unfair or unlawful.

Refer to - a trigger-happy force had trained their guns on innocents.
allegation - formal accusation.

Refer to - the security forces have often invited accusations of strong-arm tactics and heavy-
handed conduct.
accordant - agreeing or compatible.

22. (Answer - A. Both a and c
fortitude - courage.
Refer to - A feisty woman all pumped up and hollering at the top of her voice during a protest in
Mumbai.
feisty - spirited.
holler - give a loud shout or cry.
crusade - campaign or movement.
integrity - unity.
Refer to - spontaneously formed by 49 women who connected over an open letter signed by
Upendra Baxi…
dissent - protest.
The word 'disbelief' hasn't been expressed in the above context.)
overpace - improve faster than.

Refer to - some even improving faster than reputed business schools such as IIM-Indore and IIM-
Lucknow
comprehensive - covering a wider range or area.
The words - over-ambitious, aboveboard - are irrelevant in this context
aboveboard - legitimate, honest, and open.)


208
blatant - straightforward.
caustic remark - satirical remark.
Refer to - Congrats that you wrote a book and you have a few Afghan friends on the ground. And
now you’re a superstar
verbalise - to express.
reaction - response.
arrogance - No such thing can be concluded.
retaliation - revenge.
This word cannot be derived.)
hindered AND dominated - Refer to - As in the case of many extremist groups in Latin America,
the Shining Path was crushed by the might of the state and its leaders were eliminated or sent to
prison.
isolate - Refer to - But ideological blindness and the use of mindless violence to achieve goals
alienated them from the very people they wished to liberate
alienated - isolated.
unintellectual - mindless.
slaughter - the killing of animals for food.

No such thing is mentioned. Violence doesn't mean slaughter.)
underachieve - underperform.
disappointing
Refer to - The past few years have apparently not been good to Indian democracy, hailed globally
as the
bad omen - a bad event for the future.

Refer to - This is troubling news for the future, for several reasons.

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erstwhile - former or past.

Refer to - The past few years have apparently not been good to Indian democracy,
felicitous - prosperous.)
negotiations - discussion aimed at reaching an agreement.

keen - having a great amount of eagerness and enthusiasm.
Refer to - As part of these discussion aimed at reaching an agreement, India has shown a great
amount of eagerness and enthusiasm to conclude an “early harvest” trade deal with some of
these countries, liberalising tariffs on select goods.
welcome - Many commentators react with pleasure to India’s rethink on FTA since it marks a
departure from the trade protectionism that India has been practising over the past few years.
fast-track - to accelerate.
Refer to - India wishes to accelerate the progress of its free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations
with several...
perfunctory - (of an action) carried out without real interest, feeling, or effort.
Exactly the opposite thing has been discussed.)
expeditious - done with speed and efficiency.

superior - worthier.
Refer to - Factoring in their astounding reproduction rates and the ability to produce an abundance
of offspring, the actual food conversion efficiency of insects may be 20 times that of cattle.
herbivore - an animal that feeds on plants.

Refer to - Moreover, insects feed only on a far wider range of plants than conventional livestock.
fecundity - fertility.
Refer to - Factoring in their astounding reproduction rates and the ability to produce an
abundance of offspring, the actual food conversion efficiency of insects may be 20 times that of
cattle.
palatable - tasty.

210
It's nowhere written that insects are tasty to eat.)
plentiful - affording an abundant supply.

Refer to - Factoring in their astounding reproduction rates and the ability to produce an abundance
of offspring,
edible - eatable.
Refer to - they are exceptionally efficient in converting what they eat into tissue that can be
consumed by others
adaptive - accommodative.
Insects may be adaptive, but there's no such information in the context.)
30.
despotism - the exercise of absolute power.

Refer to - The professional classes have figured out how to pass their advantage to their children,
converting meritocracy into hereditary aristocracy.
meritocracy - a ruling or influential class of educated or able people.
aristocracy - the highest class in certain societies, typically comprising people of noble birth holding
hereditary titles and offices.
constricted - restricted.
distinct - particular.
Refer to - Only students who attended coaching classes for two or three years could get admission.
injustice - unfairness.
undue - unwarranted or inappropriate because excessive or disproportionate.
These words can be derived from the overall tone.
manipulation - Refer to - It shows that the wealthy and powerful have rigged the system of NEET
to perpetuate their privilege
rig - manage or conduct (something) fraudulently so as to gain an advantage; manipulate.)

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According to the entire paragraph, only statement (c) is talking about the actual context.
There cannot be a competition between a race-horse and a “cart-pulling” horse.
race-horse - The professional classes.

cart-pulling horse - The rural and urban poor.
Statements a and b have no direct connection to the main theme of the paragraph.)
biased, exclusion and restriction -
Refer to - The UK’s new post-Covid travel rules, announced last week and slated to become
effective from October 4, have been criticised as discriminatory towards travellers from India. The
list of countries whose vaccines are recognised in the UK does not include India.
disregard - refuse to acknowledge.

The Indian vaccine is being refused to be acknowledged.
below the belt - disregarding the rules.

And approval.
No such thing is mentioned. Hence, these words can't be inferred.)
33. (Answer - E. None of a, b and c
The author has nowhere expressed his personal opinion in the entire context.
Refer to - The UK’s new post-Covid travel rules, announced last week and slated to become
effective from October 4, have been criticised as discriminatory towards travellers from India.
Congress leaders have called the move a humiliation of the world’s largest vaccine
manufacturer.
These are not his views.
demeaning - humiliating.)
expansive - wide-ranging.
Refer to - The scope of the government’s latest initiative is covering a wide area in terms of
scope, the targets ambitious. It

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unifying - bringing together.

Refer to - It will integrate road, railway, airport and multi-modal connectivity projects across the
country, incorporating a range of existing infrastructure projects of the government such as
Bharatmala, Sagarmala, inland waterways, dry/land ports, and UDAN.
advantageous - beneficial.
The project is highly advantageous as It promises to greatly enhance the national highway as
well as the electricity transmission networks.
inauguration - the beginning or introduction of a system, policy, or period.

Refer to - On Wednesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched PM Gati Shakti, a National
Master Plan for multi-modal connectivity.
revolutionary - involving or causing a complete or dramatic change.

No such thing is clearly mentioned in the above situation.)
comprehensive - including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
instrumental - serving as a means of pursuing an aim or policy.
unorthodox - contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted; not orthodox.

36.
(Answer - A. Both b and c
incarceration - the state of being confined in prison; imprisonment.
influence - Refer to - It is also common knowledge that the experience of the state of being
confined in prison in Indian prisons does not depend on the crime individuals are accused of
committing, but on the social status and power of the prisoners.
penitentiary - a prison for people convicted of serious crimes.

lawbreaker - criminal.
malnutrition - No such thing is mentioned.
delinquency - minor crime, especially that committed by young people.)

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The context is - The prisons are in a bad state and the injustice in the prisons.
All a, b and c have displayed the injustice served in the prison systems.)
CHAPTER-7
MISCELLANEOUS PATTERN
Direction(1-2): Each question has three sets of statements. Each set contains a pair of
sentences wherein the first statement consists of an idiom/phrase while the second
statement talks about a situation which may or may not depict the meaning of the
idiom/phrase. You are required to select the pairs which correctly show the meaning of the
idioms in the second statement.
1. M.
I. The health warnings, while over-the-top, succeeded in frightening the life out of most
people and forced them to consider safer practices.
II. I remember the Doctor Who used to terrify me.
N.
I. They will be glad to see the back of him in Edinburgh.
II. Police said the man was shot and killed when he attempted to attack police.
O.
I. The mushrooms were nothing to write home about.
II. The film's plot is predictable and the acting is mediocre.
A. Both M and N B. Both N and O C. Both M and O D. None of M, N and O E. All M, N and
O
2. M.
I. Emily suddenly noticed that all the men doing construction were all eyes on the scene.

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II. The mother is watching her child very attentively.

N.
I. Some youths were making a noise and she went out to give them a piece of her mind.
II. We advise against all but essential travel to all other parts of Iraq.
O.
I. The bonus remains a payment made as an act of grace.
II. He was the rightful heir, as the only child of the Barlow family.
A. All M, N and O B. Both M and O C. Only M D. Both M and N E. None of M, N and O
Direction(3-5): Each question has two sets of statements. Each set contains a pair of
3. M.
I. Nothing can be more repellent to me than the self-satisfied smile of someone who thinks he
has got it made.
II. He is in a position where success is certain.
N.
I. Dad would have to make do with an old car.
II. Faulty electrical appliances should be repaired by an electrician.
A. Only M B. Only N C. Both M and N D. None of M and N
4. M.
I. Any man must at some point question whether it is chance or fate that brings things to
pass.
II. Some people think that visualizing the moment of achieving a desired goal can actually make
that happen.
N.
I. She's in seventh grade now, growing taller by the day and living life in the moment.
II. He gradually built up a reputation and by the Sixties he was an international celebrity.
5. M.

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I. A day of reckoning will come for those in the security service.

II. The dinner had been arranged as a farewell.
N.
I. He has had his day and there is no one prepared to tell him so.
II. Perhaps the '50s style public intellectual is no longer popular.
Directions(6-8): Each question has two sets of statements. Each set contains a pair of
idiom/phrase. You are required to select the pair/pairs which correctly shows/show the
meaning of the idioms in the second statement.
6. M.
I. If you're going eyes out, watch out for those struggling to keep the pace.
II. He had not travelled far.
N.
I. She gained some weight, incidentally, and looks her age now.
II. You can say anything, but he is certainly looking old.
A. Both M and N B. Only M C. Only N D. None of M and N
7. M.
I. The question to ask is "what does each side bring to the table?
II. Taxpayers had contributed £141.8 million towards the cost of local services.
N.
I. He's on your case whenever you make a mistake in training.
II. The opposition criticized the government's failure to consult adequately.
8. M.
I. Of a truth, such things used to happen.
II. I rarely drive above 50 mph.
N.
I. It is advisable not to leave handbags on view.
II. His son was put under police protection.

216
9. M.
I. Thomas has been blind since birth but that doesn't stop him from being a singer, a musician,
an actor and a man of many parts.
II. The applicant must show that she has attributes or characteristics which distinguish her from
all other persons.
N.
I. It was as clear as mud to me, and I was hoping you could help me with it later on.
II. This ambiguous attitude makes his art cryptic: viewers are left grasping at answers.
10. M.
I. The spokesman released a statement attempting to clear his client's name.
II. Any official found to be involved would be sacked on the spot.
N.
I. He wrote to his sister praising Lizzie to the skies.
II. She was flattering him in order to avoid doing what he wanted.
11. M.
I. He has acquired a bit of a reputation for being all mouth and no trousers.
II. Their little boy is very talkative.
N.
I. The firm will take to the road for a programme of culinary events.
II. We set out from New York on Friday for Egypt.

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12. M.
I. If they're to manage their finances properly while they're at university, they will need to know
how to count the pennies.
II. We spent too much money on people that hate us and loathe us and want us out of their
country.
N.
I. Every variety I could think of was there for the asking.
II. If you're planning to have it, then here's a good news for you - you can easily have it.
13. M.
I. I don't blame him for losing in the first round and don't think he laid an egg.
II. You're going to be completely unsuccessful if you don't pay enough attention to your
decisions.
N.
I. 'This is no time for playing a hunch,' Warren warned.
II. You should refrain from making instinctive decisions.
14. M.
I. She has put all her eggs in one basket with this merger deal; if it doesn't work out, I doubt
her company can survive.
II. I've high hopes that she is going to a successful musician.
N.
I. Work can get tough in the middle of a term but hang in there and it'll be OK.
II. One should remain persistent and determined in difficult circumstances.

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15. M.
I. He’s a complete idiot!’ ‘Well, it takes one to know one!’
II. You're a distrustful person yourself and that's why you're quick to recognise one who is
distrustful.
N.
I. There will always be inexperienced people ready to jump on the bandwagon and start
teaching classes in whatever is fashionable.
II. You shouldn't get involved in an activity because it is fashionable at the time.
16. M.
I. He's still keeping his chin up despite all his health problems.
II. She still engages in physical activity to sustain or improve health and fitness.
N.
I. I was meant to spend the weekend cleaning out the garage, but my wife let me off the hook
so I could go on the big fishing trip with my buddies.
II. Individuals have a responsibility to control their behaviour.
Direction(17-19): Each question has TWO sets of statements. Each set contains a pair of
17. M.
I. True excellence in writing will be quickly blue-penciled into oblivion.
II. The report had been censored in the national interest.
N.
I. He is encouraged to do it rather than to show a sort of white feather.
II. Why don't you vote - how can you be so indifferent?
18. M.
I. The company's vice president received a $500,000 golden handshake after being pressured
to leave his position.
II. She's on quite a good/decent salary in her present job.
N.

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I. Everything still has to be in apple-pie order, even though he left the army years ago.
II. His clothes are all neatly arranged in their drawers.
19. M.
I. My college graduation was a real red-letter day for my whole family.
II. Back in 1986 Jim had his first picture published in BBC Wildlife Magazine; that was indeed a
significant day in my life.
N.
I. Mohit was the man of the hour at the office after securing the biggest customer their
business had ever had.
II. It's a surprise birthday party for you, Ruth! You're the cause for celebration!
20. M.
I. The difference between gross negligence and recklessness is a legal grey area.
II. A judicial inquiry into the allegations is needed.
N.
I. He knew what they were doing was wrong, but his yellow streak kept him from intervening.
II. I don't know why he has a tendency to be cowardly or easily frightened.
21. M.
I. Recent years have witnessed a sea change in the fortunes of car safety as a marketable
quantity.
II. British society underwent a radical transformation.
N.
I. I'm not surprised he got hurt—that kid doesn't have the horse sense to get out of a
dangerous situation.
II. I've the ability to make sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the
situation or facts.

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22. M.
I. With a sinking heart, she signed the papers to sell the house.
II. I was unsure of what to do.
N.
I. He said that he was a huge fan of the president, although I suspect it was tongue in cheek.
II. You have been working hard," he said with heavy sarcasm, as he looked at the empty page.
are various blanks in each of the statements. Read it carefully and answer the questions that
follow.
(A) But Jim Corbett’s reality is a little more complex, one that _________ two worlds, in which he
was both outsider and insider.
(B) Of how Corbett Sahib would celebrate local festivals, how he would turn up in local ________, or
how he would join in the singing of the popular Kumaoni folk song Bedu pako baro masa.
(C) Corbett was an Englishman and a patriot — he __________ for both the World Wars but he
wasn’t just any other Englishman in India.
(D) In villages around Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, stories about Jim Corbett _________.
(E) And for the villagers, Corbett is no outsider; perhaps, in many ways, he is less ________ than the
tourist who comes from the “plains”.
(F) When the Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change proposed
changing the name of Corbett National Park to Ramganga, maybe he thought he was __________ a
foreign-sounding name and replacing it with an “authentic” Indian one.
(A) But Jim Corbett’s reality is a little more complex, one that _________ two worlds, in which he
was both outsider and insider.
23. Which of the following words can most appropriately fit in the blank in the above
statement?
a. straddles
b. decimates

221
c. passes up
(B) Of how Corbett Sahib would celebrate local festivals, how he would turn up in local ________, or
how he would join in the singing of the popular Kumaoni folk song Bedu pako baro masa.
statement?
a. attire
b. garb
c. turnout
A. Only b B. Only c C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
(C) Corbett was an Englishman and a patriot — he __________ for both the World Wars but he
statement?
a. volunteered
b. draws out
c. debauched
A. Only c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both b and c E. All a, b and c
(D) In villages around Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, stories about Jim Corbett _________.
statement?
a. strip
b. abound
c. prune


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(E) And for the villagers, Corbett is no outsider; perhaps, in many ways, he is less ________ than the
statement?
a. foreign
b. non-native
c. aboriginal
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Only b E. All a, b and c
changing the name of Corbett National Park to Ramganga, maybe he thought he was __________ a
foreign-sounding name and replacing it with an “authentic” Indian one.
statement?
a. knocking off
b. taking on
c. coming by
29. Which of the following combinations is the combination of FOUR CONSECUTIVE

statements after the correct?
A. BACE
B. BFAC
C. DFAE
D. FCE D

223
(a) Delhi appears ready to look beyond the region to discuss the challenges to Afghanistan and
promote a cooperative regional agenda.
(b) In a rare and welcome initiative on Afghanistan, Delhi has invited the national security advisers
from the narrow bilateral approach arising from the withdrawal of US forces and the Taliban’s
return to power in Kabul.
(c) While Delhi awaits formal responses to its invitation, the initiative marks a policy of strict
neutrality in India’s Afghan policy.
(d) Also, it is not clear how many of the other countries other than Turkmenistan will participate in
the consultations on regional security for the first half of November.
(e) Turkmenistan, which shares a part of Afghanistan’s northern borders, has an important change,
and does not join such diplomatic gatherings.
(f) According to reports, India has invited the national security advisers of Afghanistan’s neighbours
— Pakistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, China, and Russia — to join this meeting scheduled.
30. With which of the following phrases must 'the region to discuss the challenges' be
A. the consultations on regional security

B. the narrow bilateral approach
C. a policy of strict neutrality
D. an important change
31. With which of the following phrases must 'a policy of strict neutrality' be interchanged to make
the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?

224
A. the consultations on regional security

C. this meeting scheduled
32. With which of the following phrases must 'the consultations on regional security' be
A. a policy of strict neutrality

C. this meeting scheduled

A. b e d
B. f d c
C. d c a
D. f d c
a. deductive
b. didactic
c. disparaging
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and c D. All a, b and c E. None of a, b and c
35. Which of the following statements can be linked to the above passage, contextually?
a. On the question of recognising the Taliban rule in Afghanistan, India has clarified its stance
that it will stand by the Afghan people.
b. New Delhi has urged the international community to ensure that Afghan territory does not
become a source of radicalisation and terrorism.

225
c. India doesn't want to poke its nose into Afghan issues in order to keep the diplomatic
relationships with other countries intact.
punctuations _____M_____into being emergent. But in certain corners of the world, punctuations
can still ______N______pack a punch. Most recently, in Australia, a missing apostrophe in a
Facebook post could, in all probability, cost a real estate agent a fortune after a court permitted
defamation proceedings to begin, arguing that ______O______the grammatic veracity left
considerable scope for the message _____P_____to be apprehended. Three years ago, a court in
the United States of America had taken an equally refreshing position, stating that the absence of an
Oxford comma had _____Q____led to tenuous unequivocalness.
punctuations _____M_____into being emergent.
36. M
a. towards the exit door
b. into being predominant
c. into oblivion
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Both a and c D. Only b E. No replacement required
But in certain corners of the world, punctuations can still ______N______pack a punch.
37. N
a. be of no account
b. be inconsequential

226
c. be of no consequence
be apprehended.
38. O
a. the grammatical slip
b. the grammatical gaffe
c. the grammatical accuracy
be apprehended.
39. P
a. to be misinterpreted
b. to be taken amiss
c. to be misconceived
Three years ago, a court in the United States of America had taken an equally refreshing position,
stating that the absence of an Oxford comma had _____Q____led to tenuous unequivocalness.
40. Q
a. led to significant ambiguity
b. led to superficial ambivalence
c. led to considerable obscurity
A. Only a B. Both a and c C. Both a and b D. All a, b and c E. No replacement required

227
41. M.
I. The company has been in the red for the last three quarters.
II. You shouldn't spend more money than you earn.
N.
I. The next day I was black and blue and couldn't move my neck.
II. His arms and back were covered in bruises.
42. M
I. It took a few weeks of bed rest, but I'm in the pink of health now.
II. The wine had made her drowsy.
N.
I. I tried to do well in this class, but I've been at sea since we started.
II. She is perplexed about what to do for her daughter.
Directions(43-48): In the following passage, some of the words have been left out, each of
thermal power plants and dispel fears of disruptions in power supply across the country. This comes
after several states had raised the issue of _____N_____ coal with the Union government. As
reported in this paper, around half of the major coal-based power plants that are closely monitored

228
have less than three days’ worth of _____O_____ as per data from the Central Electricity Authority.
have thus been forced to buy power at much higher rates on the exchanges. This situation, a
throwback to the years of ______Q______, has in fact forced some discoms to urge their consumers
to use electricity ______R_______.
thermal power plants and dispel fears of disruptions in power supply across the country.
43. M
a. assuage
b. disoblige
c. alleviate
This comes after several states had raised the issue of _____N_____ coal with the Union
government.
44. N
a. dwindling
b. tapering
c. augmentative
As reported in this paper, around half of the major coal-based power plants that are closely
monitored have less than three days’ worth of _____O_____ as per data from the Central Electricity
Authority.
45. O
a. stocks
b. commodities
c. reserves

229
have thus been forced to buy power at much higher rates on the exchanges.
46. P
a. inventory
b. catalogue
c. archive
A. Only a B. Only b C. Only c D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
47. Q
a. scarceness
b. shortages
c. profuseness
48. R
a. imprudently
b. judiciously
c. with kid gloves

230
The FIFTH STATEMENT is fixed and has been given in bold.
(a) The Supreme Court’s censure is not without reason; data reveal that considering the fastest rate
of case disposal at the Allahabad High Court, the average waiting period to get justice in criminal
appeal against conviction by trial courts is around 35 years.
(b) Around 70% of prison inmates in India are undertrials and the worst sufferers, as always, are the
poor people; ______________________________
(c) In view of the long __________ of criminal cases in the Allahabad High Court, the Supreme Court
of India recently ordered the registration of a suo motu case to consider ___________ guidelines to
resolve the accumulating crisis.
(d) The apex court has, therefore, rightly advised the Allahabad High Court to put in place a
mechanism such that if an accused approaches the high court for bail, the application, at the very
least, gets listed.
(e) Bail, the Supreme Court has reiterated time and again, should be the norm, not jail, but it
is evident that not only elected governments but also crucial tiers of the judicial apparatus
are not paying enough attention to this.
(f) Time is of the essence, especially for those waiting for justice; the urgency of the adage becomes
all the more evident when the highest court of the land has to remind a subordinate court of this.
(g) Although the apex court has pulled up the Allahabad High Court in this instance, it must be stated
that pendency is not unique to any one court in particular; _________________________
(h) In fact, in this rare instance of the apex court censuring a high court, the former was scathing in
its criticism and a strict deadline has been issued for the registration of the proceedings.
(a) The Supreme Court’s censure is not without reason; data reveal that considering the fastest rate
of case disposal at the Allahabad High Court, the average waiting period to get justice in criminal
appeal against conviction by trial courts is around 35 years.

231
49. Which of the following statements could justify the Supreme Court's condemnation, as
expressed in the above statement?
a. The Allahabad High Court has been very sluggish in delivering justice.
b. The Allahabad High Court has been very slack functionally for some well-grounded reasons.
c. The Allahabad High Court has been infamous for misjudgment.
(b) Around 70% of prison inmates in India are undertrials and the worst sufferers, as always, are the
poor people; ______________________________
50. Which of the following statements can be written contextually, in the blank in the above
statement?
a. their plight is often compounded by inadequate access to legal counsel.

b. they have to go through a tremendous amount of trouble due to their inability to adjust to the
norms.
c. their predicament can be attributed to their lack of access to judicial guidance.
(c) In view of the long __________ of criminal cases in the Allahabad High Court, the Supreme Court
of India recently ordered the registration of a suo motu case to consider ___________ guidelines to
resolve the accumulating crisis.
a. pendency, laying down

b. exigency, brushing off
c. delay, pushing aside
(d) The apex court has, therefore, rightly advised the Allahabad High Court to put in place a
mechanism such that if an accused approaches the high court for bail, the application, at the very
least, gets listed.

232
52. How should the Allahabad High Court be, according to the apex court, as expressed in the
above statement?
a. shrewd
b. compliant
c. considerate
A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only c D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
(e) Bail, the Supreme Court has reiterated time and again, should be the norm, not jail, but it is
evident that not only elected governments but also crucial tiers of the judicial apparatus are not
paying enough attention to this.
53. How is/are the author's tone(s) in the above statement?
a. complaintive
b. captious
c. discriminative
(f) Time is of the essence, especially for those waiting for justice; the urgency of the adage becomes
all the more evident when the highest court of the land has to remind a subordinate court of this.
54. Which of the following PROVERBS can justify the adage/proverb mentioned in the above
statement, contextually?
a. Time stays long enough for those who use it.

b. The cure for bad times is patience.
c. The poor have no time to spare.
A. Both b and c B. Only c C. Both a and b D. Only b E. All a, b and c
(g) Although the apex court has pulled up the Allahabad High Court in this instance, it must be stated
that pendency is not unique to any one court in particular; _________________________

233
55. Which of the following statements can be written logically in the blank in the above
statement?
a. it is a constrained phenomenon.
b. it is an all-pervasive phenomenon.
c. it is an extensive phenomenon.
(h) In fact, in this rare instance of the apex court censuring a high court, the former was severely
critical in its criticism and a strict deadline has been issued for the registration of the proceedings.
56. How would you describe the attitude of the apex court, as expressed in the above
statement?
a. scathing
b. rigorous
c. unyielding
57. Which of the following statements can be a CONCLUDING STATEMENT to the entire
passage?
a. The existing gaps must be addressed on a war-footing in order to ensure that the wheels of
justice turn quickly.
b. Judiciary should strive hard to ensure speedy delivery of justice to victims.
c. The wheels of justice need to be greased.


234
A. c h a e
B. h e g d
C. f h a g
D. c a g d
(Answer - A. c h a e
f c h a e g b d)
Directions(59-62): In the following question, a sentence is given with three words marked as
(A), (B) and (C). These words may or may not be placed at their correct places. Four options
with different arrangements of these words have been provided. Mark the option with the
correct arrangement as the answer. If no rearrangement is required, mark option (E) as your
answer.
59. Much cooperation can be achieved in green technology with Japanese companies looking to
(A)elevate operations from the USA, thus, India would do well to (B)relocate its cautious approach
and (C)abandon ties with Taiwan both for strategic and economic reasons.
A. BCA
B. ACB
C. BAC
D. CAB
60. She could very well emerge as the tallest opposition (A)vision but leading a (B)figurehead of
regional opposition units will be difficult given their own contradictions and absence of a national
(C)coalition.
A. BAC
B. ACB
C. BCA
D. CAB

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61. (A)Clocking has acquired a new face in companies – some employees are working entirely on
(B)diversity, others entirely at home, and still others in hybrid mode, (C)site in only select days or
hours at the physical office.
A. BAC
B. ACB
C. BCA
D. CAB
62. India is entering another (A)aggregate in the anti-Covid fight with daily (B)verge second doses
on the (C)phase of outnumbering first doses nationally and already exceeding first doses in many
states.
A. BCA
B. ACB
C. BAC
D. CAB
Directions(63-65): In the following questions, a sentence is given with two blanks. You have
to find the pair of words from the given options that fit both the blanks in the given order and
make the sentence grammatically and contextually correct.
63. India has to _________ satisfy both the domestic and international constituencies going forward,
given the Delta variant continuing to ________ huge damage abroad.
a. simultaneously, wreak
b. concurrently, cause
c. together, bring about


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64. GoI must _________ the 2021 Census and ________ its socio-economic data immediately.
a. hold up, publish

b. expedite, release
c. hasten, put out
65. Retail price of petrol in many cities ________ the Rs 100/ litre mark a while ago and is set to get
higher as the cost of the primary input, crude, is ________.
a. crossed, contracting
b. breached, increasing
c. violated, waning
Directions(66-68): Identify the words that are similar in meaning to the phrase/idiom in bold. If
none of the options convey the correct meaning, mark (E) as your answer. The options do not
necessarily need to be grammatically correct.
66. His face went as white as a ghost when he saw the burglar in his house.
A. unconscious
B. frightened
C. dreaded
D. exultant

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67. I'm ready to paint the town red with a few of my closest friends.
A. celebrate
B. cause chaos
C. disguise
D. go for a search
68. He told a white lie as his excuse for missing the party.
A. a lame excuse
B. a serious misinformation
C. a trivial lie
D. a serious lie
(a) These conventions are sometimes bunched together in a meeting in England: “spirit of the
game”.
(b) The conduct of a cricket match is governed by the game’s governing body that have evolved
over time.
(c) In a catchall phrase in 1926, it was decided to limit ICC’s to countries that were within the British
Empire.
(d) Where does the “spirit of the game” come from? An answer comes from the way in which a
detailed set of rules International Cricket Council (ICC) was formed.

238
(e) This meant that the course of a cricket match in international matches like the U.S, which had
been playing against England since 1859, went out of the circuit.
(f) In addition, there are some aspects during some of the early participants that are governed by
conventions.
69. With which of the following phrases must 'a meeting in England' be interchanged to make the
A. the course of a cricket match

B. some of the early participants
C. a catchall phrase
D. a detailed set of rules
70. With which of the following phrases must 'the game’s governing body' be interchanged to
make the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?
A. the course of a cricket match

71. With which of the following phrases must 'the course of a cricket match' be interchanged to
make the sentence grammatically and contextually meaningful?
A. a meeting in England

239

A. f a d
B. b a c
C. a c e
D. f d e
a. didactic
b. informatory
c. coruscating
74. Which of the following statements can come right after the last statement of the
paragraph, after the correct rearrangement?
The sentence must logically follow the last statement of the paragraph.
a. The spirit of the game thereby came to reflect what was deemed proper primarily by upper-
class Englishmen.
b. The only thing holding the expanding cricket family together is the codified rules of the game.
c. The game’s spread across countries and social groups will ensure that.
75. M.

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I. Aren’t you putting the cart before the horse in decorating your new office? You haven’t
even been awarded the job yet.
II. I know I've got to deal with the problem at some point - I'm just procrastinating
N.
I. The federal government’s $500 million rescue package is a drop in the ocean compared to
what is needed.
II. We have only received scanty information so far.
6. M.
I. I hate the way he wolfs down his food at dinner so he can leave the table as quickly as
possible.
II. I don't use the car, hence I am wasting precious money on it.
N.
I. They insist on keeping their children out of the public eye.
II. He never dreamed of becoming a famous footballer; he's always wanted to be a skillful
player.
Directions(77-78): Rearrange the following SIX sentences (A), (B), (C), (D), (E) and (F) in a
proper sequence to form a meaningful paragraph. Then answer the questions given below.
(A) In fact, Mizoram’s Champhai and Hnahthial districts currently have 6,000 displaced persons from
Myanmar.
(B) Mizoram has witnessed a steady stream of refugees from Myanmar since the February military
coup in the neighbouring country.
(C) This clearly highlights the perils of India’s ad hoc approach to refugees in the absence of a
definitive refugee policy.

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(D) But in stark contrast to the issue of Rohingya refugees or illegal migration from Bangladesh,
Myanmar refugees in Mizoram are hardly receiving national attention.
(E) This helps no one and leads to further complications down the road.
(F) Many of these refugees are from Myanmar’s Chin state who share ties with ethnic Mizos.
77. Which of the following pairs is the pair of the ANTEPENULTIMATE statement and the MAIDEN
statement respectively, after the correct rearrangement?
A. EF
B. CF
C. DB
D. CB
A. BFA
B. FAC
C. ACE
D. FDE
Direction(79-80): In each of the questions below, two sentences are given with one blank in
each of them. The sentences are then followed by some words. You've to choose the word
that can fit in both the blanks contextually and grammatically.
79.
I. He _________ them in the use of firearms.
II. The bank was _________ that the money from the deposit account was now held by the
company.
a. aided

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b. instructed
c. supported
80.
I. He was quick to _________ that there was little future in such arguments.
II. Some geographers __________ hydrology to be a separate field of scientific inquiry.
a. perceive
b. notice
c. foresee
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and
Direction(81): In the sentence below there are pairs of highlighted words (A, B). Select the
most appropriate words to form correct sentences. Then from the options given select the
correct option.
81. The lack of a (A)domestic(B)extrinsic refugee law means that accepting or rejecting refugees is
left to the (A)whims(B)views of the government (A)of(B)by the day.
A. BBA
B. ABA
C. ABB
D. BAA

243
82.
A. Prolonged exposure to the noise caused by traffic has been linked to hearing loss, increase in
blood pressure and heart rate, greater risk of stroke and diabetes.
B. Whether one is a driver or a passenger, the typical Indian road experience is maddening and
exhausting.
C. As the noise pollution rises, at many levels, we get more and more stressed, feeling the need to
cry out louder than the next person, organisation, community.
D. The “irritating” sound of the siren on an ambulance or an official vehicle could be replaced with the
melodious composition that served as All India Radio’s signature tune.
A. A B. B C. C D. D E. The sentence can fit nowhere
a. Scientists have been documenting how animals and birds respond to a noisy world – some
birds sing at higher frequencies; bats have trouble finding prey.
b. In India, especially, there is no doubt that the problem of noise pollution needs urgent and
serious consideration.
c. Permissible noise levels in residential areas is 55 decibel during the day time and 45 decibel
during the night.
84.
A. While light tends to scatter in water, sounds travel much faster through water than through air.
B. Sound always needs a medium to travel through, and the type of medium determines its speed.
C. The definition of the speed of light has some broader implications for fields such as cosmology
and astronomy, which say, the speed of light is constant.
D. The speed of light, which is almost 300,000 kilometers per second, can be manipulated by
changing media or with quantum interference.

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a. If the light is travelling in vacuum its speed will be the fastest.

b. The speed of sound and speed of light are totally incomparable; you normally don’t notice this
speed difference on a day-to-day basis.
c. The speed of a sound wave in air depends upon the properties of the air, mostly the
temperature, and to a lesser degree, the humidity.
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Only b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
86.
A. The digital storehouse of patient data can be invaluable for clinical and operational research.
B. In a paperless hospital, before the patient reached the doctor, the doctor had already gone
through the patient’s record and the pharmacist had the drugs ready by the time the patient reached
the pharmacy counter.
C. In the immediate short run, digital health databases will increase administrative costs by about
20%, due to the capital investment in hardware and software development, technical personnel and
data entry servers.
D. With digital health database, the burden of storing and carrying health records for every visit to the
doctor is minimised.
a. Given that health systems are highly complex, would digitization be able to address some of
the issues plaguing it?
b. In digital healthcare, the doctor has instant access to the patient’s case history, enabling
more accurate diagnosis and treatment.
c. The efficacy of digital databases hinges on the assumption that every visit and every drug
consumed by the patient is faithfully and accurately recorded.

245
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Only b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
Direction(88-89): In each of the following questions a sentence/paragraph is given with some

of its part missing and it's represented by a blank. Select the best option(s) which will fit in
that blank. If no option fits in the blank, choose (E) as your answer.
88. While we laud our economic progress and achievements in communications, manufacturing, and
in the industrial arena, ____________________________________
a. let us not forget our successes in protecting those forced to flee their homes.
b. let us not forget about the rights of the refugees and our obligations.
c. let us not forget to extol various accomplishments regarding our economy.
89. Frances Haugen is the Facebook whistleblower who provided documents to The Wall Street
Journal as well as US government agencies about the degree to which the social media giant
Facebook is aware of, and consciously exploits, the harm its applications cause and her interview to
60 Minutes underlines the challenge: _______________________________
a. There appears to be a fundamental contradiction between how social media is designed and
the public good.
b. Facebook’s much-touted “safeguards” against hate speech, incitement to violence as well as
content harmful to the mental well-being of young people are, at best, window dressing.
c. Under political pressure, the company tweaks its algorithm and gives lower priority to
polarising political content ahead of the election.
Directions(90-91): You are presented with two statements followed by three possible
connectors that can join the two sentences to form one sentence. Identify which
connector/connectors can join both the sentences in such a way that meaning of the two
statements would not change. If none of the connectors are correct, mark E as your answer.
90.
I. She is the best student in the class.
II. She does not do homework in time.

246
a. however
b. at the same time
c. furthermore
91.
I. I don’t think going for a walk is a good idea; it’s quite cold outside.
II. It's getting late and we don’t want to be out in the dark.
a. besides
b. yet
c. also
A. Only a B. Both a and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c
Direction(92-94): In the question below, a pair of homophones is given, followed by three

sentences in each of which one of the two homophones will fit. From the options below,
choose the correct order of the homophones that will fit in the sentences.
92.
A - beaches
B - beeches
I. The sun was breaking through the __________, making every leaf a light.
II. Lazy summer days are made to be spent on the gravel flats and sandy __________ along
Northern California's Russian River.
III. A male great spotted wood-pecker has made regular early morning visits to nearby towering
_________.

247
93.
A - feat
B - feet
I. Typical symptoms include breathlessness, swollen ankles and _______, and extreme
tiredness.
II. The ________ represents his strength in overcoming the bullying he endured as a child.
III. The Eiffel Tower is a remarkable ________ of engineering.
A. BAA B. ABA C. AAB D. BAB E. None of the above options
94.
A - jam
B - jamb
I. He leaned against the door _______.

II. Yesterday, motorists were caught in a ______.
III. One cannot blame the citizens who try to ______ one more piece of garbage into them.
A. BAA B. ABA C. AAB D. BAB E. None of the above options
Direction(95-101): Six sentences are given, each of which is divided into four parts and then
jumbled; also, four words are highlighted in each of the six sentences. First, choose the pairs
of words that need to be interchanged to make each of the sentences grammatically correct
and meaningful. Also, arrange the jumbled parts of these sentences to form a meaningful
paragraph. Out of the six sentences, there is one sentence which does not fit into the theme
of the passage thus formed. Read the sentences carefully and answer the questions that
follow.
(a) When economic activity is gaining sustained (1)reserve / The low (2)momentum of coal at
thermal power plants is / But unlike other inputs where the causes are global in (3)creation, / A
problem of our (4)nature and comes just

248
(b) India’s power (1)stock yesterday was / Coal (2)plants at / The (3)tonnes that should exist / 7.2
million (4)buffer, sufficient for just four days; this is below
(c) The development assumes (1)rise in the wake of / A marginal (2)significance to 40.7 million
tonnes in September and / Coal (3)shortages in India registered / The country's power plants
grappling with coal (4)production
(d) The (1)patterns are not entirely persuasive / Both (2)package and normal business (3)reasons /
As a (4)data, / Because they are inconsistent with
(e) September rains that disrupted coal production, / Chief among them are an unusual (1)overdue
in electricity demand because of a (2)protocol in economic activity, / GoI has proffered a set of
reasons for the current situation; / Pricier coal imports, poor coal stocking (3)rebound and the
perennial (4)spike from state governments
(f) Supply (1)depletion / In the (2)inputs of / Stock (3)disruptions has happened / In other industrial
(4)wake such as semiconductors
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-2 & 3-4
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-2 & 3-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-2 & 3-4
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-3 & 2-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4

249
interchanged.
A. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-3 & 2-4

B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-4 & 2-3
C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-2 & 3-4
D. 1-4 & 2-3; 1-2 & 3-4
A. b
B. c
C. e
D. d
E. a

A. b a e
B. f a c
C. f c e
D. a e d
100. Which of the following statements could replace the odd statement in the above
Parajumble?
a. The daily consumption of electricity has crossed beyond 4 Billion units per day and 65-70% of
the demand is being met by coal-fired power generation only, thereby increasing dependence
on coal.
b. GoI expects the shortage to ease soon through higher domestic production.

250
c. With the Indian coal industry already free from high production costs, the country’s output is
going to be severely stimulated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with key companies beginning
their operations as part of preventive measures.
(Answer - C. Both a and b
Statements a and b are contextually correct.
Statement a is justifying the shortage of coal.

Statement b has a conclusive tone.
These statements absolutely address the shortage.
But, statement c is a self-contradictory statement.

The phrases 'free from high production costs' and 'the country’s output is going to be
severely stimulated' have made it an absolutely WRONG CHOICE.)
101. Which of the following statements can be considered as a CRITICAL STATEMENT,

regarding the main context of the passage?
a. The reduction of imported coal is compensated by the domestic coal for power generation,
hence increasing the demand for domestic coal further.
b. The monsoon cannot be used as an excuse; disruptions during this period are not uncommon
and stakeholders should have been prepared.
c. By June, activity began to normalise and macroeconomic forecasts pointed to a substantial
rebound in economic output and a spike in demand was predictable; was it unmanageable?
Coal stock at India’s power plants yesterday was 7.2 million tonnes, sufficient for just four days;
this is below the buffer that should exist.
Stock depletion has happened in the wake of supply disruptions in other industrial inputs such as
semiconductors.

251
But unlike other inputs where the causes are global in nature, the low reserve of coal at thermal
power plants is a problem of our creation and comes just when economic activity is gaining
sustained momentum.
GoI has proffered a set of reasons for the current situation; chief among them are an unusual spike
in electricity demand because of a rebound in economic activity, September rains that disrupted
coal production, pricier coal imports, poor coal stocking protocol and the perennial overdue from
state governments.
As a package, the reasons are not entirely persuasive because they are inconsistent with both data
and normal business patterns.
Coal production in India registered a marginal rise to 40.7 million tonnes in September and the
development assumes significance in the wake of the country's power plants grappling with coal
shortages.

There is one more question associated with each of the situations. You've to answer
accordingly.
102.
Situation 1
As news of the Tatas taking over Air India spread, snappy jokes about ghar wapasi, “airlooms” and
“Tata does not always mean goodbye’’ flooded social media. The mood was overwhelmingly
sentimental: A perennially sick airline had returned to its roots, and was waiting to be nursed back to
good health. While the sale of Air India will raise the government’s disinvestment drive, some
wondered whether the investment, at a time when the aviation business is in a state of stagnation,
made sound business sense for the Tatas.
a. recuperation, doldrums
b. rebuke, delight
c. incertitude, boost

252
103. How would you describe the author's tone(s) in the above situation?
a. inquisitive
b. interpretative
c. expository
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Only c D. Only b E. All a, b and c
Directions(104): You are presented with two statements followed by three possible
connectors that can join the two sentences to form one sentence. Identify which
connector/connectors can join both the sentences in such a way that meaning of the two
statements would not change. If none of the connectors are correct, mark E as your answer.
104
I. Michelle Santner has signed a one-year contract.
II. Russell Edwards has been released.
a. while
b. whereas
c. thus
(a) Although advertised as a green move, the proposal is riddled with contradictions; while the
ministry claims that the intervention would incentivize afforestation on private lands, it concedes that
it seeks to clear the path for land-holding agencies to deforest lands as well as allow constructions
for ‘bona fide’ purposes.

253
(b) The Centre has read the message wrong, once again; environmental activists have been urging
the government to ‘go green’ by protecting India’s forests, but it seems more interested in protecting
the ‘green’ in the wallet instead.
(c) This is not idle speculation; India’s forests have been suffering for long: ‘very dense forests’,
capable of absorbing copious amounts of harmful carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, constitute
only three per cent of the country’s geography.
(d) What the government seems to ignore, however, is why the definition of ‘forest’ had been
broadened in the first place; has this been done to facilitate profiteering at the cost of India’s green
cover?
(e) India’s forests, with all their local variation and ecosystems, cannot be managed using singular,
Central legislation — involving local bodies in case-specific inspection would be more effective.
(f) If the _______ is indeed for India to meet its environmental goal of increasing forest and tree
cover to 33 per cent, ______________ to the protection of ‘pristine’ forests would not be enough.
(g) Moreover, development of forest land must take into account local communities whose
livelihoods depend on it; they must be made the principal stakeholders in deliberations on forest land
if India is to save what remains of its wilderness.
(h) Consider a recent instance; the Union environment ministry has proposed an amendment to the
Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; this seeks to exempt certain categories of infrastructure project
developers from requiring the Centre’s permission to use forest land for ‘non-forestry’ purposes.
(a) Although advertised as a green move, the proposal is riddled with contradictions; while the
ministry claims that the intervention would incentivize afforestation on private lands, it concedes that
it seeks to clear the path for land-holding agencies to deforest lands as well as allow constructions
for ‘bona fide’ purposes.
105. Why is the proposal conflicting, as expressed in the above statement?
a. Because, according to the ministry, through the proposal, they've opened the door for both
planting trees and cutting trees.
b. Because, the proposal is going to allow genuine projects to be realised at the cost of the
forests, while on the other hand, the proposal is promoting desertification.
c. Because, the proposal on the one hand encourages forestation, while on the other hand, it's
making room for denudation of trees.

254
106. How would you describe the government's attitude here, as expressed in the above
statement?
a. money-grabbing
b. conservationist
c. misunderstood
107. How would you describe the 'very dense forests', as expressed in the above statement?
a. remunerative, thickened
b. favourable, scant
c. detoxifying, depleted
108. How would you describe the author's tone(s) in the above statement?
a. Inculpatory
b. Inquisitive
c. Opprobrious
(e) India’s forests, with all their local variation and ecosystems, cannot be managed using singular,
Central legislation — involving local bodies in case-specific inspection would be more effective.
109. According to the above statement, the author has suggested _________________
a. remote management

255
b. local intervention
c. collective effort
(f) If the _______ is indeed for India to meet its environmental goal of increasing forest and tree
cover to 33 per cent, ______________ the protection of ‘pristine’ forests would not be enough.
110. Which of the following pairs of a word and an idiom can most appropriately fit in the
blanks in the above statement respectively?
a. objective, paying lip-service to

b. aim, paying heed to
c. intent, paying a call on
A. Only b B. Only a C. Only c D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
(g) Moreover, development of forest land must take into account local communities whose
livelihoods depend on it; they must be made the principal stakeholders in deliberations on forest land
if India is to save what remains of its wilderness.
111. How is the author's tone and how should the approach be in order to save what remains
of India's wilderness, respectively?
a. suggestive, inclusive
b. assertive, considerate
c. emphatic, astute
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both b and c D. Only b E. All a, b and c
(h) Consider a recent instance; the Union environment ministry has proposed an amendment to the
Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980; this seeks to free certain categories of infrastructure project
developers from an obligation to require the Centre’s permission to use forest land for ‘non-forestry’
purposes.
112. Which of the following words can be derived from the above statement?
a. exempt, revision
b. allowance, imperative

256
c. proposition, excused

STATEMENTS after the correct rearrangement?
A. h a d c
B. b a d g
C. a d e f
D. b h d c
Directions(114-115): In each of the questions given below, four words are given in bold.
A. Both a-b and c-d

B. Only c-d
C. Only a-c
D. Both b-c and a-d
A. Both a-c and b-d

B. Both a-d and b-c

257
C. Only a-d
D. Only b-d
Directions(116-118): In each of the questions given below, three/four words are given in bold.
116. The Shankaracharya hill gives you an astounding (m)shrines of the densely packed city, with
its (n)heritage, temples and churches, but the hill is also a reminder of the city’s ancient (o)view and
atavistic (p)roots.
A. ponm
B. mpon
C. ompn
D. pnom
A. nomp
B. pnmo
C. mnpo
D. omnp
A. pomn
B. mpon
C. nopm
D. pnom

258
119.
I. Nobody can predict the future.
II. We know some farmers will see it as decision time.
a. yet
b. besides
c. moreover
A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Only b D. Both a and b E. Only c
120.
I. If I were you I would accept their offer.
II. There's no harm in trying.
a. yet
b. besides
c. also
121.
I. I’m not really over-ambitious.
II. Money isn’t everything.
a. still
b. after all
c. however
A. Both b and c B. Only b C. Only a D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c
Directions(122-124): In each of the questions below, two sentences are given with one blank
in each of them. Identify the correct word from the options below, that'll fit in those blanks,
making the sentences grammatically and contextually correct.
122.
I. Theoretically, an economy India’s size is _______ of absorbing the $52 billion of PE funding
seen over the last 12 months.

259
II. She looked enthusiastic and ________.
a. capable
b. able
c. adept
123.
I. For now, this ______ of funds is a welcome booster for the economy.
II. There's been a steady _______ of visitors.
a. flow
b. flux
c. stagnancy
124.
I. We believe we are in the early stages of this reshaping of India’s corporate _________.
II. He was painting a beautiful _________.
a. topography
b. landscape
c. panorama
Direction(125-126): SIX statements are given below, which are jumbled in any random order.
These statements will form a coherent and meaningful paragraph, when arranged in the
correct sequence. Arrange the sentences in the right order and answer the questions that
follow.
(A) Meanwhile, the 13th round of top-level military talks to resolve the India-China standoff along the
LAC failed to achieve any momentum with both sides hardening their respective positions.
(B) This marks the highest number of casualties suffered by the armed forces in a single encounter
in Jammu & Kashmir this year.

260
(C) This means the Chinese are unwilling to go beyond the partial disengagement achieved at some
friction points earlier this year.
(D) On Monday, five army personnel – including a junior commissioned officer – were killed in a
gunfight with terrorists in Poonch district, Jammu & Kashmir.
(E) This latest incident also shows that India needs to be prepared for both conventional and
unconventional terror tactics.
(F) A development in the last 72 hours has highlighted the strategic-security challenges India faces
along its northern border.

A. F B E
B. B A C
C. D B E
D. D E A
MAIDEN statement respectively?
A. A F
B. C D
C. E F
D. B D
Direction(127-129): In each of the following questions a sentence is given with some of its
part missing and it's represented by a blank. Select the best option(s) to make the sentence
complete and coherent. If no option fits in the blank, choose (E) as your answer.
127. The current government will go down in history for its chilling ability to stare down protest and
crush dissenters; ______________________________

261
a. for example, in October 2015, the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) students called
off their strike of 139 days after failing to elicit a response from the government.
b. for example, hundreds of students from various degree colleges on Thursday staged protest
opposing the decision to hold examinations for first, third, and fifth semester students.
c. for example, protests by school and college students demanding justice for medical seat
aspirant S.Anitha’s family and exemption for the State from NEET continued on Wednesday.
128. Make no mistake, despite working in a difficult, complex ecosystem, about a third of civil
servants are doing exceptional work, better than their peers in the corporate sector; the challenge
remains to move those who don’t perform, to _______________________.
a. send home those who steal.

b. send home those who are non-performers.
c. send home those who imbue more technology and depend more on technology throughout
the system.
129. In Telangana last year, many teachers lost their jobs as private schools tied up with online
learning platforms to deliver virtual classes to students; ___________________
a. clearly, the imperative is to cut costs.

b. reports also show political interference in recruiting teachers slowing down the process.
c. according to various reports, a total of 19% or 11.16 lakh teaching positions in schools lie
vacant in the country.
These three statements are causes and effects of the above fact.)
Direction(130-133): In each of the questions below, two sentences are given with one blank in
each of them. The sentences are then followed by some words. You've to choose the word
that can fit in both the blanks contextually and grammatically.
130.
I. The influx of people from Spanish-speaking states had allowed the party to gain ________.

262
II. This is a huge subject that covers much ________ and will see a good many proposals.
a. ground
b. land
c. basis
A. Only b B. Only a and c C. Only a D. Only b and c E. All a, b and c
131.
I. Instead of getting angry and playing into his _______, she countered him.
II. They are taking the law into their own ________.
a. traps
b. hands
c. control
A. Only b B. Only a and c C. Only a D. Only b and c E. All a, b and c
132.
I. I use paint as a _______ for my ideas.
II. The four-wheeled _______ was sent skidding across the road.
a. motor
b. vehicle
c. medium
A. Only b B. Only a and c C. Only a D. Only c E. All a, b and c
133.
I. The place is a ________ of different communities, with nearly half of them “non-Bengalis”.
II. Today's Europe is a rich ________ of cultures, ethnicities, and religions.
a. mosaic
b. blend
c. assortment
A. Only b B. Only a and b C. Only a D. Only c E. All a, b and c

263
Directions(134-136): Rearrange the following SEVEN sentences (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f) and (g)
in a proper sequence to form a meaningful paragraph. Then answer the questions given
below.
(a) This development is welcome because the issue is not about protecting national security.
(b) The committee will be headed by a retired apex court judge.
(c) The Government of India has both the obligation and the lawful means to safeguard national
security.
(d) And it is represented by domain experts in security, technology and law.
(e) The core issue is about the process followed.
(f) The Supreme Court’s decision to appoint a technical committee to examine allegations about
privacy violation of citizens using the spyware Pegasus is the appropriate way to proceed.
(g) On national security, there is no ambiguity in the law.
134. Which of the following pairs is the pair of the CONCLUDING statement and the
INTERMEDIATE statement respectively, after the correct rearrangement?
A. e a
B. c a
C. g e
D. e d
A. b d g
B. a c e
C. d a g
D. b a c

264
INTRODUCTORY statement respectively, after the correct rearrangement?
A. e f
B. g f
C. c b
D. e d
137. There needs to be tight (m)levels at multiple (n)oversight to ensure that (o)security is not
abused for reasons other than national (p)power.
A. Only m-o
B. Both m-o and n-p
C. Only n-o
D. Both m-n and o-p
138. The (m)passion of IPL, as measured by bids for (n)object rights, indicate that fans may not be
so rigid in identifying the (o)telecast of their (p)popularity.
A. Only m-p
B. Both m-o and n-p
C. Only m-p and n-o
D. Both m-n and o-p
Directions(139-): In the following question, a sentence is given with THREE/FOUR words

marked as (M), (N), (O) {and (P)}. These words may or may not be placed at their correct
places. Four options with different arrangements of these words have been provided. Mark
the option with the correct arrangement as the answer. If no rearrangement is required, mark
option (E) as your answer.

265
139. In short, (M)foundation (N)finances from retail price of petrol and diesel are not the (O)excise
of government (P)collections.
A. POMN
B. OPMN
C. NPOM
D. ONMP
140. (M)Tools and (N)disagreements of violence completely disable all (O)threats for debating
(P)acts.
A. OPMN
B. PMNO
C. OMNP
D. PMNO
141. Moody’s Investors Service this week enhanced GoI’s (M)currency (N)risk from negative to
stable, it also affirmed Baa3 ratings for long-term loans in both domestic and foreign (O)rating,
indicative of moderate credit (P)outlook.
A. PMNO
B. MPON
C. OPMN
D. ONMP
Directions(142-): In the following passage, some of the words have been left out, each of
So far Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, UP, Delhi, Mumbai and Ladakh are among the territories where
wearing masks have been made mandatory. The possibility of ____M____ penalties for violations
are being explored. China had taken this course. But in the Indian ____N____ it may be good for

266
civic bodies to start with offering free and ____O____ supply of masks. This would ensure that a
critical mass starts wearing masks and ____P____ others to also adopt the practice. Generating
awareness is a key step in triggering a _____Q_____ shift because many people still remain
_____R_____ and resist the idea of wearing masks.
The possibility of ____M____ penalties for violations are being explored. China had taken this
course.
142. M
a. invoking
b. waiving
c. renouncing
A. Only b B. Only b and c C. Only a and b D. Only a E. All a, b and c
China had taken this course. But in the Indian ____N____ it may be good for civic bodies to start
with offering free and ____O____ supply of masks.
143. N
a. context
b. clime
c. backdrop
A. Only b B. Only b and c C. Only a and c D. Only a E. All a, b and c
China had taken this course. But in the Indian ____N____ it may be good for civic bodies to start
with offering free and ____O____ supply of masks.
144. O
a. exiguous
b. plentiful
c. copious

267
This would ensure that a critical mass starts wearing masks and ____P____ others to also adopt the
practice.
145. P
a. fends off
b. prods
c. dissuades
Generating awareness is a key step in triggering a _____Q_____ shift because many people still
remain _____R_____ and resist the idea of wearing masks.
146. Q
a. material
b. corporal
c. behavioural
A. Only b B. Only a and b C. Only a and c D. Only c E. All a, b and c
Generating awareness is a key step in triggering a _____Q_____ shift because many people still
remain _____R_____ and resist the idea of wearing masks.
147. R
a. holdouts
b. wannabes
c. getters
A. Only b B. Only a and b C. Only a and c D. Only a E. All a, b and c
Directions(148-149): The following question has THREE blanks. In each blank a preposition
has been omitted. Choose the set of prepositions for each blank that best fits in the context
of the sentence.
148. The twin spikes _____ unemployment rate, as surveyed _____ CMIE, and daily confirmed
coronavirus cases pose tough choices _____ governments.

268
A. with, for, to
B. in, by, for
C. for, for, to
D. in, through, with
149. Out _____ work, without a secure roof _____ their heads, many made a hard journey _____
their own villages.
A. of, over, to
B. by, above, for
C. for, across, into
D. with, above, in
Directions(150-): Identify the option that is similar in meaning to the phrase/idiom in bold. If
none of the options convey the correct meaning, mark (E) as your answer.
150. As to be expected, the high command did not react favorably to the home truths.
A. old facts
B. unpleasant facts
C. made-up lies
D. rumours
151. I had a close shave this morning when a tractor trailer unexpectedly swerved into my lane.
A. trimmed beard
B. unexpected surprise
C. a narrow escape
D. heated argument
152. It was an investigation to bring to light examples of extravagant expenditure.
A. make known to others

B. identify
C. handle in a skillful manner
D. benefit unfairly from

269
South Korea has launched its first indigenous rocket Nuri, stepping up the country's ambitions in
space. The Korean Satellite Launch Vehicle II, known as Nuri, took off from Goheung, about 500km
(310 miles) south of Seoul. President Moon Jae-in said the vehicle completed its full flight sequence
but failed in its goal of putting a dummy satellite in orbit.
Such launches are essential for a space programme but could potentially also have military
applications. South Korea is locked in an arms race with North Korea, with both recently test-firing
new weapons. The North put a satellite in orbit in 2012.
Nuri cost South Korea an estimated 2 trillion won (£1.23bn or $1.6bn) to develop. Weighing 200
tonnes and measuring 47.2 metres long, it is fitted with six liquid-fuelled engines. In his comments,
President Moon admitted the launch fell short of their goals, but added: "It's not long before we'll be
able to launch it exactly into the target trajectory," Reuters news agency reported.
South Korea plans to carry out four more launches of the Nuri until 2027 to increase reliability,
according to the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) that is overseeing the launch. While
South Korea is a technological powerhouse, it has lagged behind other countries in its development
for space exploration. Previous attempts by Seoul to launch a rocket in 2009 and 2010 failed, with
the second exploding seconds after take-off.
South Korea is aiming to send a probe to the moon by 2030. While South Korea says it intends to
use Nuri to launch satellites, the test has also been viewed as part of the country's ongoing ramp-up
in weapons development. Ballistic missiles and space rockets use similar technology.
a. The satellite launch vehicle Nuri was mechanically a complete failure.

b. South Korea hasn't developed any rocket in the country itself, before Nuri.
c. South Korea may use the technology which is used in Nuri, in Ballistic missiles.
A. Only a and b B. Only a and c C. Only b and c D. Only a E. All a, b and c
a. The rocket launched in 2010 by Seoul failed outright.

b. South Korea is not in a competitive state with any country.
c. South Korea justifies its technological prowess when it comes to space exploration.

270
155. Which of the following statements is/are the purpose(s) of Nuri, according to the above
passage?
a. South Korea has the intention to execute future launches of Nuri.

b. South Korea may want to use Nuri to achieve military weapon goals.
c. South Korea wants to invest in Nuri in order to fix their failed image in space exploration.
A. Only a and b B. Only a and c C. Only b and c D. Only c E. All a, b and c
In his comments, President Moon admitted the launch fell short of their goals, but added: "It's not
long before we'll be able to launch it exactly into the target trajectory," Reuters news agency
reported.
156. Which of the following words can be synonymous with the word 'trajectory', as used in the
above passage?
a. objective
b. path
c. route
A. Only a B. Only b and c C. Only b D. Only c E. All a, b and
While South Korea says it intends to use Nuri to launch satellites, the test has also been viewed as
part of the country's ongoing ramp-up in weapons development.
157. Which of the following words carry/carries the opposite meaning to the word 'ramp-up', as
a. diminution
b. augmentation
c. step-down
A. Only a and c B. Only b and c C. Only b D. Only c E. All a, b and c
158. Why does the author think that South Korea may use Nuri for military purposes too?
a. Because, both South Korea and North Korea are each other's contenders and both have
been involved in military activities recently.

271
b. Because, both Nuri and ballistic missiles share the same technology.
c. Because, South Korea has had failures in launching rockets previously.
159. How would you describe the author's tone(s) in the entire passage?
a. conjectural
b. illustrative
c. reproving
A. Only a and c B. Only a and b C. Only b D. Only c E. All a, b and c
The author hasn't expressed any such expressions.)

Directions(160-163): In the following question, a sentence is given with FOUR words marked
as (A), (B), (C) and (D). These words may or may not be placed at their correct places. Four
your answer.
160. In a clear (A)weekend to peace and (B)defence in the Indo-Pacific, China sent more than 100
warplanes into Taiwan’s air (C)stability identification zone over the (D)threat.
A. CBDA
B. BDAC
C. DCBA
D. CBDA
161. Much (A)ties can also be achieved in green technology, IT, digital healthcare and telecom;
thus, India would do well to abandon its cautious (B)cooperation and elevate (C)reasons with
Taiwan both for strategic and economic (D)approach.
A. BDAC
B. DBAC
C. ACBD
D. CBDA

272
162. India has done well in vaccination but the general (A)gains for (B)public in (C)masking could
end up robbing the (D)disregard.
A. CBDA
B. DCBA
C. ACBD
D. BDCA
Directions(163-165): In the question given below a statement is given with two blanks in it.
You have to choose the option which provides the correct set of words that fits both the
blanks in the statement appropriately and in the same order making them meaningful and
grammatically correct.
163. The fact is that content that ________ an emotional _________, engages people more.
a. elicits, response
b. acts, reaction
c. arouses, reciprocation
164. There are documents __________ how Instagram increases notions of shame around the body
and ___________ among teenage girls.
a. detailing, depression
b. signifying, elation
c. mentioning, delight
165. The typical Indian road experience is maddening and __________, and bad for both mental and
physical _________.
a. reposeful, health
b. exhausting, wellness

273
c. draining, wellbeing
Direction(166-168): Directions: In the questions given below, a sentence has been broken
down into five fragments labeled (m), (n), (o), (p) and (q) and arranged, not necessarily in the
correct order. You have to find the correct order of arrangement from the options given
below.
166. (m)The release of his fifth and final Bond film, (n)Daniel Craig would have gotten off Bond duty
earlier, (o)No Time to Die, (p)Had Covid-19 not pushed back (q)By over a year
A. npmoq
B. pnmqo
C. mpnoq
D. pnomq
167. (m)India would not allow itself to be caught napping (n)A decade ahead of us (o)By Pakistan,
which had jumped (p)By acquiring sophisticated armaments (q)Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
declared in Canberra that
A. npmoq
B. qmonp
C. mnopq
D. onmqp
168. (m)The expanding human activity on the moon, (n)To abide by a broad set of principles to
guide (o)The accords are an agreement (p)To setting up lunar colonies (q)Ranging from mining
resources
A. npmoq
B. qmonp
C. mnopq
D. onmqp

274
Directions(169-): In the following passage, some of the words have been left out, each of
Cities are drivers of economic _____M_____. As India urbanises, it must ensure that its cities offer a
_____N_____ quality of life and facilitate job creation. These _____O_____ are fundamental to
India’s ambitions of becoming a five trillion-dollar economy by 2025 and a 10 trillion-dollar economy
by 2030.
From a population of 377 million in 2011, Indian cities are projected to _____P_____ 870 million
people by 2050, according to the UN’s projections — by far the highest among all nations. Delhi is
likely to become the world’s most populous urban _______Q______ by 2030, surpassing Tokyo.
Clearly, a major ______R______ transformation is taking place.
Cities are drivers of economic _____M_____.
169. M
a. growth
b. maturation
c. tumble
As India urbanises, it must ensure that its cities offer a _____N_____ quality of life and facilitate job
creation.
170. N
a. worthy
b. decent
c. respectable
A. Both a and b B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Only c E. All a, b and c
These _____O_____ are fundamental to India’s ambitions of becoming a five trillion-dollar economy
by 2025 and a 10 trillion-dollar economy by 2030.

275
171. O
a. alternatives
b. imperatives
c. essentials
From a population of 377 million in 2011, Indian cities are projected to _____P_____ 870 million
people by 2050, according to the UN’s projections — by far the highest among all nations.
172. P
a. house
b. dissipate
c. domiciliate
Delhi is likely to become the world’s most populous urban _______Q______ by 2030, surpassing
Tokyo. Clearly, a major ______R______ transformation is taking place.
173. Q
a. agglomeration
b. adjustment
c. cluster
Delhi is likely to become the world’s most populous urban _______Q______ by 2030, surpassing
Tokyo. Clearly, a major ______R______ transformation is taking place.
174. R
a. empirical
b. demographic
c. cerebral

276
Directions(175-176): In the following questions, a part of the sentence is in BOLD. Which of

the options given below the sentence should replace the part in bold to make the sentence
grammatically and contextually correct? If the sentence is correct as it is given then choose
option E as your answer.
175. The Defence Ministry was forcing by accepting the intervene of the Supreme Court order.
A. has been forced to accept the intervention

B. has been forcing to be accepted as the intervention
C. has forced to be accepted by the intervention
D. has been forced to accepting intervention
176. The advent of women in uniform at the NDA may not be as smooth as we might imagine, as
entrance of women posing several challenging by the academy, at least for some time to come.
A. the entrance of women to be posed several challenges for

B. the entry of women poses several challenges to
C. the entry of females have to pose several challenges by
D. the entrance of women posed several challenges with
Direction(177-): Each question has three sets of statements consisting of a common idiom.
You are required to select the statement/statements which has/have CORRECTLY used the
idiom.
177.
I. A gang of goons was beating an old man but instead of helping him everybody turned a
blind eye.
II. His years of experience in the spoken English field has turned a blind eye.
III. Lara's performance at the concert last night just turned a blind eye.
A. Only I
B. Both I and II
C. Both I and III

277
D. All I, II and III

E. None of I, II and III
178.
I. I had no intention of saying that to her, it was a slip of the tongue.
II. During the speech, one slip of the tongue spoiled the image of a great leader.
III. Physics turned out to be a slip of the tongue for students in the examination.
A. Only I
B. Both I and II
C. Only III
D. Both I and III
E. All I, II and III
179.
I. I wanted to tell him exactly what I thought of him, but I had to be at sea.
II. I am searching for a house and I want it to be at sea away from the river.
III. I tried to do well in this class, but I've been at sea since we started.
A. Only III
B. Both I and II
C. Both I and III
D. All I, II and III
E. None of I, II and III

278
A. Both a-b and c-d

B. Only c-d
C. Only a-c
D. Both b-c and a-d
A. Both a-c and b-d

B. Both a-d and b-c
C. Only a-d
D. Only b-d
Directions(182-184): In each of the questions given below, three/four words are given in bold.
182.. The Shankaracharya hill gives you an astounding (m)shrines of the densely packed city, with
its (n)heritage, temples and churches, but the hill is also a reminder of the city’s ancient (o)view and
atavistic (p)roots.
A. ponm
B. mpon
C. ompn
D. pnom

279
A. nomp
B. pnmo
C. mnpo
D. omnp
A. pomn
B. mpon
C. nopm
D. pnom
Direction(185): The sentence below has one blank, which is indicating that something has
been omitted. Find out which option can be used to fill up the blank in the sentence in the
same sequence to make it meaningfully complete.
Back in February 2019, a Facebook employee ran a test to understand what a new user in India
would see if all they did was follow pages and groups ___________ by Facebook’s algorithms.
a. recommended
b. pushed
c. occupied
A. Only a B. Only b and c C. Only c D. Only a and b E. All a, b and c

280
ANSWER
1.(Answer - C. Both M and O have the correct pairs of statements.
frighten the life out of someone - to terrify someone.
be nothing to write home about - be very mediocre or unexceptional.
see the back of - Be rid of (an unwanted person or thing).

But, statement II is talking about attacking someone.)
2.(Answer - C. Only M has the correct pairs.
be all eyes - be watching eagerly and attentively.
an act of grace - A privilege or concession that cannot be claimed as a right.

But, sentence II is talking about the rightful heir.
give someone a piece of one's mind - to rebuke someone.

But, sentence II is talking about advising.)
3.(Answer - A. Only M has the correct pair.
have/get it made - in a position where success is certain.
make do - Manage with the limited or inadequate means available.

But, sentence II is talking about repairing.)
4.(Answer - C. Both M and N have the correct pairs.
bring something to pass - cause something to happen.
by the day - gradually.)
5.(Answer - B. Only N has the correct pair.
have had one's day - Be no longer popular, successful, or influential.
day of reckoning - The time when past mistakes or misdeeds must be punished or paid for.
But, sentence II is talking farewell.)
6.(Answer - D. None of M and N
eyes out - as fast as possible.

281
But, sentence II is talking about 'travelling far'.
look one's age - Appear to be as old as one really is.

But, sentence II is talking about looking old.)
7.(Answer - A. Both M and N
bring to the table - to contribute.

on someone's case - Continually criticizing or harassing someone.)
Of a truth - certainly.
But, sentence II is talking about 'rarely'.
on view - easily visible.

But, sentence II is talking about 'under protection'.
A man of many parts - someone having various attributes or qualities.
as clear as mud - difficult to understand or ambiguous.)
10.(Answer - D. None of M and N have the correct pairs.
clear the name of - show to be innocent.

But, sentence II is talking about sacking.
to the skies - Very highly; enthusiastically.

But, sentence II is talking about flattering.)
11.(Answer - C. Only N has the correct pair.
take to the road - Set out on a journey or series of journeys.
be all mouth and no trousers - tend to talk boastfully without any intention of acting on one's
words.
But, sentence II is talking about being just talkative.)

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12.(Answer - C. Only N has the correct pair
for the asking - Used to indicate that someone can easily have something if they want it.
count the pennies - to spend carefully.

But, sentence II is talking about spending a lot of money.)
13.(Answer - A. Both M and N have the correct pairs.
lay an egg - be completely unsuccessful.
play a hunch - make an instinctive choice.)
hang in there - remain persistent and determined in difficult circumstances.
put all one's eggs in one basket - put all one's effort or resources into doing one thing so that, if it
fails, one has no alternatives left.
But, sentence II is talking about having high hopes.)
15.(Answer - A. Both M and N have the correct pairs.
it takes one to know one - A retort used to suggest that the person who has accused someone of
being something negative thing is in fact that thing (as if being that thing would help one to identify
others of like kind)
jump on the bandwagon - become involved in an activity or movement because it is fashionable or

likely to succeed and not because they are really interested in it.)
keep one's chin up - remain cheerful in difficult circumstances.

But, sentence II is talking about engaging in physical activity.
let someone off the hook - To pardon, release, or allow one to escape from blame, responsibility,
obligation, or difficulty.
But, sentence II is talking about having a responsibility.)
17.(Answer - A. Only M has the correct pair.
blue-pencil - censor or make cuts in (a manuscript, film, or other work).
show white feather - to act cowardly.


283
But, sentence II is talking about being indifferent.)
apple-pie order - perfect order or neatness.
golden handshake - a payment given to someone who is made redundant or retires early.
But, sentence II is talking about regular salary.)
red-letter day - a very important and significant day.
The man/woman of the hour - A person currently being celebrated, honored, or admired by others,
especially for a recent victory, accomplishment, or other cause for celebration.)
grey area - an area or situation in which it is difficult to judge what is right and what is wrong.
But, statement II is talking about judicial things.
yellow streak - a tendency to be cowardly or easily frightened.)

21.(Answer - C. Both M and N
a sea change - a big change or transformation.
the horse sense - common sense - the ability to make sound and prudent judgment based on a
simple perception of the situation or facts.)
tongue in cheek - something said in a sarcastic manner.
sinking heart - disappointed.

But, statement II is talking about being unsure.)
straddle - sit or stand with one leg on either side of; to be noncommittal.
noncommittal - not expressing or revealing commitment to a definite opinion or course of action.

284
decimate - kill, destroy, or remove a large proportion of.

pass up - to reject.)
attire / garb / turnout - dress.)
draw out - make something last longer.

debauch - to corrupt.)
abound - be plentiful.
prune - reduce the extent of (something) by removing superfluous or unwanted parts.
strip - to deprive.)
27. (Answer - A. Both a and b
foreign / non-native - of, from, in, or characteristic of a country or language other than one's own.
aboriginal - inhabiting or existing in a land from the earliest times or from before the arrival of
colonists; indigenous.)
knock off - to get rid of something.
take on - to accept.
come by - call casually and briefly as a visitor.)
29. (Answer - B. B F A C
D B F A C E )
(A) But Jim Corbett’s reality is a little more complex, one that straddles two worlds, in which he was
both outsider and insider.
(B) Of how Corbett Sahib would celebrate local festivals, how he would turn up in local attire, or how
he would join in the singing of the popular Kumaoni folk song Bedu pako baro masa.

285
(C) Corbett was an Englishman and a patriot — he volunteered for both the World Wars but he
(D) In villages around Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand, stories about Jim Corbett abound.
(E) And for the villagers, Corbett is no outsider; perhaps, in many ways, he is less foreign than the
changing the name of Corbett National Park to Ramganga, maybe he thought he was knocking off
a foreign-sounding name and replacing it with an “authentic” Indian one.
30.
(Answer - B. the narrow bilateral approach
Delhi appears ready to look beyond the narrow bilateral approach to Afghanistan and promote a
cooperative regional agenda.
In a rare and welcome initiative on Afghanistan, Delhi has invited the national security advisers from
the region to discuss the challenges arising from the withdrawal of US forces and the Taliban’s
return to power in Kabul.)
31. (Answer - D. an important change

(c) While Delhi awaits formal responses to its invitation, the initiative marks an important change in
India’s Afghan policy.
(e) Turkmenistan, which shares a part of Afghanistan’s northern borders, has a policy of strict
neutrality, and does not join such diplomatic gatherings.)
32. (Answer - C. this meeting scheduled
(d) Also, it is not clear how many of the other countries other than Turkmenistan will participate in
this meeting scheduled for the first half of November.
(f) According to reports, India has invited the national security advisers of Afghanistan’s neighbours
— Pakistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, China, and Russia — to join the consultations on
regional security.)
33. (Answer - C. d c a
b f e d c a )

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34. (Answer - E. None of a, b and c
The tone of the author in the above passage is - factual and enlightening.
He has just provided information and news.
deductive - logical.
didactic - intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive.
disparaging - expressing the opinion that something is of little worth; derogatory.
The author hasn't expressed his own opinion anywhere in the passage. Hence, none of the
options can be chosen.)
The entire passage is about - India wanting to stand by Afghanistan. That means India wants
to help Afghanistan.
Hence, statements a and b are ABSOLUTELY CORRECT.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's CONTRADICTORY.
poke one's nose into something - interfere in something.)
into oblivion / towards the exit door - into the state of forgetting or having forgotten.)
37.
(Answer - E. No replacement required
pack a punch - be very effective.
Be of no account - be insignificant or inconsequential.)
slip / gaffe - a minor or careless mistake.

287
misinterpreted / taken amiss / misconceived - misunderstood.)
ambiguity / ambivalence / obscurity - the quality of being open to more than one interpretation;
inexactness.
unequivocalness - clarity.
punctuations towards the exit door. But in certain corners of the world, punctuations can still pack
a punch. Most recently, in Australia, a missing apostrophe in a Facebook post could, in all
probability, cost a real estate agent a fortune after a court permitted defamation proceedings to
begin, arguing that the grammatical slip left considerable scope for the message to be
misinterpreted. Three years ago, a court in the United States of America had taken an equally
refreshing position, stating that the absence of an Oxford comma had led to significant ambiguity.
41. (Answer - A. Both M and N
in the red - spending more money than you earn.
black and blue - heavily bruised.)
42. (Answer - C. Only N
at sea - perplexed.
in the pink of health - in good health.

But, sentence II is talking about being drunk.)
You've to read the entire statement carefully. Look at the phrase 'dispel fears of disruptions in
power supply across the country' in the above statement.
dispel - make (a doubt, feeling, or belief) disappear.
That means, the chosen word must be positive in tone.
assuage / alleviate - reduce or relieve.
disoblige - offend (someone) by not acting in accordance with their wishes.)


288
dwindling / tapering - decreasing.
augmentative - increasing.)
stocks / commodities / reserves - the goods or merchandise kept on the premises of a shop or
warehouse and available for sale or distribution.)
inventory - stocks in hand.
catalogue - a list of works of art in an exhibition or collection, with detailed comments and
explanations.
archive - a collection of historical documents or records providing information about a place,
institution, or group of people.)
scarceness - shortage.
profuseness - abundance.)
judiciously / with kid gloves - carefully with good judgement or sense.
imprudently - unwisely.)
Statements a and c are the perfectly right choices.
plight / predicament - suffering.
Statement b - Incorrect. It can't be written as this statement has indirectly blamed the poor
people, which is totally out of context.)

289
Refer to - the fastest rate of case disposal at the Allahabad High Court, the average waiting period
to get justice in criminal appeal against conviction by trial courts is around 35 years.
sluggish / slack - slow.
Statement b - Incorrect. The phrase 'for some well-grounded reasons' makes the statement
incorrect.
well-grounded - logical.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's out of the context. No such thing is mentioned.)
pendency - the state, condition, or period of being pending or awaiting settlement.
lay down - institute, enact; formally write.
exigency - urgency.
brush off / push aside - to ignore.)
Refer to - if an accused approaches the high court for bail, the application, at the very least, gets
listed.
That means, the court should be considerate.

considerate - showing concern for the rights and feelings of others.
shrewd - having or showing sharp powers of judgement; astute.

compliant - disposed to agree with others or obey rules, especially to an excessive degree;
acquiescent.
complaintive - expressing pain or dissatisfaction of resentment.
captious - fault-finding.
discriminative - expressing careful judgements.

This doesn't make sense.)

290
Only this proverb can justify what has been said in the above statement.
'poor' here means - unfortunate and troubled ones.
a - Incorrect. It's out of context.

b - Incorrect. It's suggesting to wait patiently which is absolutely out of context.)
Refer to - it must be stated that pendency is not unique to any one court in particular;
That means, it's an extensive / all-pervasive phenomenon.
pervasive - spreading widely throughout an area or a group of people.
constrained - limited or restricted.)
scathing - severely critical.

rigours / unyielding - strict and stringent.)
57. (Answer - E. All a, b and c)
58.(Answer - A. c h a e
f c h a e g b d)
59. (Answer - A. BCA
Much cooperation can be achieved in green technology with Japanese companies looking to
relocate operations from the USA, thus, India would do well to abandon its cautious approach and
elevate ties with Taiwan both for strategic and economic reasons.)
60. (Answer - C. B C A

291
She could very well emerge as the tallest opposition figurehead but leading a coalition of regional
opposition units will be difficult given their own contradictions and absence of a national vision.
figurehead - leader.
coalition - a temporary alliance for combined action, especially of political parties forming a
government.
vision - the ability to think about or plan the future with imagination or wisdom.)
61. (Answer - C. B C A
Diversity has acquired a new face in companies – some employees are working entirely on site,
others entirely at home, and still others in hybrid mode, clocking in only select days or hours at the
physical office.
clock in - to begin work.

site - an area of ground on which a town, building, or monument is constructed.)
62. (Answer - D. C A B
India is entering another phase in the anti-Covid fight with daily aggregate second doses on the
verge of outnumbering first doses nationally and already exceeding first doses in many states.
on the verge of something - at the point when (something) is about to happen or is very likely to
happen.)
simultaneously / concurrently - together.

wreak / cause / bring about - cause (a large amount of damage or harm).
expedite / hasten - speed up.

put out - to release or publish.
hold up - to delay.)
breach - to break or cross.
contract / wane - to decrease.)


292
66. (Answer - B. frightened
frightened - afraid or anxious.
dreaded - causing fear.

exultant - elated.)
67. (Answer - A. celebrate)
68. (Answer - C. a trivial lie
trivial - unimportant and harmless.)

69. (Answer - C. a catchall phrase
These conventions are sometimes bunched together in a catchall phrase: “spirit of the game”.
In a meeting in England in 1926, it was decided to limit ICC’s to countries that were within the
British Empire.)
70. (Answer - D. a detailed set of rules
The conduct of a cricket match is governed by a detailed set of rules

that have evolved over time.
Where does the “spirit of the game” come from? An answer comes from the way in which the
game’s governing body International Cricket Council (ICC) was formed.)
71. (Answer - B. some of the early participants
This meant that some of the early participants in international matches like the U.S, which had
been playing against England since 1859, went out of the circuit.
In addition, there are some aspects during the course of a cricket match that are governed by
conventions.)
72. (Answer - A. f a d
b f a d c e)


293
informatory - providing or conveying information
didactic - instructive.
coruscating - severely critical.)
The connector 'thereby' makes it a perfectly logical statement.

This meant that some of the early participants in international matches like the U.S, which
had been playing against England since 1859, went out of the circuit.
This means that the spirit of the game thereby came to reflect what was deemed proper
primarily by upper-class Englishmen.
Statements b and c can't follow logically.)
75. (Answer - B. Only N has the correct pair.
a drop in the ocean - very little amount of something.

scanty - small or insufficient in quantity or amount.
put the cart before the horse - do things in the wrong order.
But, sentence II is talking about procrastinating.
procrastinate - delay or postpone action; put off doing something.)
76. (Answer - B. Only N has the correct pair.
out of the public eye - not so famous.
wolf down - to eat something very quickly or ravenously. A noun or pronoun can be used between
"wolf" and "down."
But, sentence II is talking about wasting something.)
77. (Answer - C. D B
B F A D C E)
78. (Answer - A. B F A)

294
instruct - teach (someone) a subject or skill.(statement I)
give information to (someone)(statement II)
aid - to help.)
perceive - become aware or conscious of (something); come to realize or understand.(Sentence I)
interpret or regard (someone or something) in a particular way.(Sentence II)
foresee - to anticipate.
It will not fit in the second statement.)
The correct arrangement - AAA
extrinsic - alien.
whim - a sudden desire or change of mind, especially one that is unusual or unexplained.
of the day - of a particular period of time.
by the day - as each day passes.)
82. (Answer - D. D
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, B and C are talking about
the effects of noise pollution, whereas, statement D is giving a suggestion to the problem.)
The sentence must be a statement explaining or mentioning the effects of noise pollution.
Hence, statement (a) is the perfect choice.
Statement b - Incorrect. It's a suggestion.
Statement c - Incorrect. It's not explaining the effect.)
84. Answer - C. C

295
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, B and D are talking about
a fact that says - the speed of both light and sound depends on the medium they're travelling
in. That's why sounds travel much faster through water than through air.
But, according to statement (c), the speed of light is CONSTANT. That means, it doesn't
depend on the medium.
Hence, it's the odd one out.)
The chosen sentence must carry the fact that the speed of light and sound depends on the
medium they're travelling in.
That's why the speed of light is the fastest if it's travelling in vacuum.
Hence, statements a and c are the perfect choices.
Statement b - Incorrect. It's just a fact. It's irrelevant to the main theme.)
86. (Answer - C. C
If you read all the statements carefully, you'd see that statements A, B and D are talking about
the digitalisation in the healthcare system POSITIVELY.
But, statement (C) is talking about digitization negatively. That means, it mentions a problem
digitization comes with.)
The chosen sentence must carry the positive facts regarding digitization.
Hence, only b is looking good.
Statement a - Incorrect. It's a question.

Statement c - Incorrect. It's neither positive nor negative. It's a conditional statement.)
As the sentence starts with 'while', there must come a contrasting statement.
In this context, what we shouldn't forget.
The structure is - what we do and what we should do.
Both a and b are perfectly right.

296
Option c - Incorrect. If you read it carefully, you'd find that, if this comes in the blank, the
sentence will be redundant. As, the same thing is written in the first part.)
89(Answer - E. All a, b and c
The entire context is negative towards Facebook.

The last line - her interview to 60 Minutes underlines the challenge:
All statements a, b and c are talking about Facebook negatively.
window dressing - an adroit but superficial or misleading presentation of something, designed to

create a favourable impression.)
There must be a contrasting connector.)
91. (Answer - B. Both a and c)
92. (Answer - D. BAB
beech - a large tree with smooth grey bark, glossy leaves, and hard, pale fine-grained timber.
beach - a pebbly or sandy shore, especially by the sea between high- and low-water marks.
towering - high.)
93. (Answer - A. BAA
feat - an achievement that requires great courage, skill, or strength.
feet - plural of 'foot'.)
94. (Answer - A. BAA
jamb - a side post or surface of a doorway, window, or fireplace.
jam - (noun) - short for traffic jam.
(verb) - push (something) roughly and forcibly into position or a space.)

297
95. (Answer - C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-2 & 3-4
sustained momentum.
this is below the buffer that should exist.)
96. (Answer - C. 1-2 & 3-4; 1-3 & 2-4
shortages.
and normal business patterns.)
97. (Answer - B. 1-3 & 2-4; 1-4 & 2-3
state governments.
semiconductors.)
98. (Answer - B. c
This statement is talking about a marginal rise in the coal production in India, which is
absolutely CONTRADICTORY to the main theme, as the entire theme of the passage is about
the shortages in coal production and reserve.)
99. (Answer - D. a e d
b f a e d c )

298
Statements a and b are contextually correct.
Statement a is justifying the shortage of coal.

Statement b has a conclusive tone.
These statements absolutely address the shortage.
But, statement c is a self-contradictory statement.

The phrases 'free from high production costs' and 'the country’s output is going to be
severely stimulated' have made it an absolutely WRONG CHOICE.)
In these statements the author is criticizing the government's unpreparedness and lack of
managing ability.
Hence, both these sentences are CRITICAL.
Statement a - Incorrect. This is not a critical statement. This statement is justifying the
shortage.)
this is below the buffer that should exist.
semiconductors.
sustained momentum.
state governments.
and normal business patterns.

299
shortages.
recuperation - recovery.
Refer to - A perennially sick airline had returned to its roots, and was waiting to be nursed back to
good health.
doldrums - a state or period of stagnation or depression.
incertitude - doubt.
Refer to - While the sale of Air India will raise the government’s disinvestment drive, some wondered
whether the investment, at a time when the aviation business is in a state of stagnation, made
sound business sense for the Tatas.
incertitude - doubt.
boost - help or encourage (something) to increase or improve.
Refer to - While the sale of Air India will raise the government’s disinvestment drive, some
wondered whether the investment, at a time when the aviation business is in a state of stagnation,
made sound business sense for the Tatas.
The word 'rebuke' has not been expressed anywhere.)
The author here hasn't expressed his/her own point of view. He/she has just described.
Hence, the author isn't interpretative or inquisitive here. His tone is rather expository.
expository - intended to describe.

interpretive - relating to or providing an interpretation.
inquisitive - having or showing an interest in learning things; curious.)
Both are contrasting situations.
Michelle Santner has signed a one-year contract whereas Russell Edwards has been released.

300
Michelle Santner has signed a one-year contract while Russell Edwards has been released.)
Refer to - while the ministry claims that the intervention would incentivize afforestation on private
lands, it concedes that it seeks to clear the path for land-holding agencies to deforest lands as
well as allow constructions for ‘bona fide’ purposes.
Hence, it's clear that, through the proposal, the ministry has opened the door for both
planting trees and cutting trees.
Statement c is telling the same thing differently.
forestation - afforestation.
denudation of trees - disforestation or deforestation.
Statement b - Incorrect. This is a redundant statement.

The phrase 'the proposal is promoting desertification' is incorrect here.
desertification ~ deforestation.)
(b) The Centre has read the message wrong, once again; environmental activists have been urging
the government to ‘go green’ by protecting India’s forests, but it seems more interested in protecting
the ‘green’ in the wallet instead.
Refer to - it seems more interested in protecting the ‘green’ in the wallet instead.
green - money. (another meaning)
Hence, the government is money-grabbing.
money-grabbing - eager to make money.)
conservationist - a person who advocates or acts for the protection and preservation of the
environment and wildlife.
The government isn't misunderstood, the message is.)

301
(c) This is not idle speculation; India’s forests have been suffering for long: ‘very dense forests’,
capable of absorbing copious amounts of harmful carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, constitute
only three per cent of the country’s geography.
Refer to - and ‘very dense forests’, capable of absorbing copious amounts of harmful carbon
dioxide from the atmosphere, constitute only three per cent of the country’s geography.
That means, 'very dense forests' are favourable, detoxifying and scant / depleted.
favourable - beneficial.
scant / depleted - insufficient.
detoxifying - removing toxic substances from.
remunerative - financially rewarding.
Inculpatory - condemning.
Refer to - What the government seems to ignore, however, is why the definition of ‘forest’ had been
broadened in the first place;
Inquisitive - eager to investigate and learn more.

Refer to - has this been done to facilitate profiteering at the cost of India’s green cover?
Opprobrious - abusive.
The author hasn't used abusive words.)
According to the above statement, the author has suggested local intervention and collective
efforts.
Refer to - India’s forests, with all their local variation and ecosystems, cannot be managed using
singular, Central legislation — involving local bodies in case-specific inspection would be
more effective.
Hence, the author suggested local intervention and collective efforts.
The author discourages remote management.)

302
pay lip-service to something - to say that you agree with something but do nothing to support it.
pay heed to something - pay attention to something.
pay a call on someone / something - to visit someone or something.)
111.
suggestive - tending to suggest.
assertive / emphatic - expressing something forcibly and clearly.

Refer to - they must be made the principal stakeholders in deliberations on forest land if India is to
save what remains of its wilderness.
inclusive - including all relevant people.
considerate - showing skills in dealing with people in order to achieve greater goals.
Refer to - they must be made the principal stakeholders in deliberations on forest land if India is to
save what remains of its wilderness.
astute - having or showing an ability to properly assess situations or people and turn this to one's
advantage.)
exempt - free from an obligation or liability imposed on others.

Refer to - this seeks to free certain categories of infrastructure project developers from an obligation
to require the Centre’s permission to use forest land for ‘non-forestry’ purposes.
revision - the action of revising.

proposition - a suggested scheme or plan of action.
Refer to - Consider a recent instance; the Union environment ministry has proposed an
amendment to the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980;
excused - granted exemption.
allowance - the amount of something that is permitted, especially within a set of regulations or for a
specified purpose.

303
imperative - of vital importance; crucial.

113. (Answer - A. h a d c
b h a d c f e g
idle speculation - baseless speculation.
speculation - has this been done to facilitate profiteering at the cost of India’s green cover?)

heritage.

304

Nobody can predict the future, yet we know some farmers will see it as decision time.)
If I were you I would accept their offer, besides, there's no harm in trying.
besides / also - in addition.)
121. (Answer - B. Only b
after all - used when giving a reason to explain what you have just said.
I’m not really over-ambitious, after all money isn’t everything.)
These three words are synonymous. But, their usages are different.
adept - She is adept at cutting through red tape.

'able' is never followed by 'of'.)
flux / flow - a steady, continuous stream or supply of something.
stagnancy - inactivity.)


305
landscape - i) all the visible features of an area of land, often considered in terms of their aesthetic
appeal.
ii) the distinctive features of a sphere of activity. (statement I)
125. (Answer - C. D B E
F D B E A C )
126. (Answer - C. E F)
chilling ability to stare down protest and crush dissenters - that means - the government is
famous for overcoming and subduing dissenters.
Hence, only a is justifying this sentence, as students backed down.
Statements b and c are just reports.)
Read the last statement - the challenge remains to move those who don’t perform
send home those who steal and who are non-performers and who imbue more technology
and depend more on technology throughout the system.
All these statements are negative.)
All these statements justify the fact that many teachers lost their jobs as private schools tied
up with online learning platforms to deliver virtual classes to students.
130. (Answer - C. Only a
gain ground - to become popular.
ground - an area of knowledge or subject of discussion or thought.)

306
play into someone's hands - act in such a way as unintentionally to give someone an advantage.
hands - Used in reference to the power to direct something.)
vehicle - i) A thing used for transporting people or goods, especially on land, such as a car, lorry, or
cart.
ii) A thing used to express, embody, or fulfil something.)
133. (Answer - B. Only a and b
mosaic / blend / assortment - mixture.
The word 'assortment' can't be chosen due to the article 'a' in the first sentence.)
134. (Answer - A. e a
f b d a g c e )
135. (Answer - C. d a g)
136. (Answer - B. g f)
137. (Answer - D. Only m-n and o-p
There needs to be tight oversight at multiple levels to ensure that power is not abused for reasons
other than national security.
oversight - supervision.)
138. (Answer - C. Only m-p and n-o
The popularity of IPL, as measured by bids for telecast rights, indicate that fans may not be so rigid
in identifying the object of their passion.)
139. (Answer - B. OPMN

307
In short, excise collections from retail price of petrol and diesel are not the foundation of
government finances.)
140. (Answer - A. OPMN
Threats and acts of violence completely disable all tools for debating disagreements.)
141. (Answer - C. OPMN
Moody’s Investors Service this week enhanced GoI’s rating outlook from negative to stable, it also
affirmed Baa3 ratings for long-term loans in both domestic and foreign currency, indicative of
moderate credit risk.)
142. (Answer - D. Only a
invoke - to use a law in order to achieve something, or to mention something in order to explain
something or to support your opinion or action.
waive - refrain from insisting on or using (a right or claim).

renounce - reject.)
143. (Answer - C. Only a and c
context / backdrop - the circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea, and in
terms of which it can be fully understood.
clime - a region considered with reference to its climate.

This word is irrelevant here.)
144. (Answer - B. Only b and c
plentiful / copious - abundant.
exiguous - very small in size or amount.)
prod - to encourage.
fend off - defend oneself from a blow, attack, or attacker.
dissuade - persuade (someone) not to take a particular course of action.)

308
behavioural - related to behaviour.
corporal - physical.
material - physical.)
147. (Answer - D. Only a
holdout - a person who resists something or refuses to accept an offer.
wannabe - a person who tries to be like someone else or to fit in with a particular group of people.
getter - a person or thing that gets a specified desirable thing.)
148 (Answer - B. in, by, for)
149. (Answer - A. of, over, to
out of something - If you are out of something, you no longer have any of it.)
150. (Answer - B. unpleasant facts)
151. (Answer - C. a narrow escape)
152. (Answer - A. make known to others)
153. (Answer - C. Only b and c
b - TRUE.
Refer to - South Korea has launched its first indigenous rocket Nuri, stepping up the country's
ambitions in space.
indigenous - homegrown.
c - TRUE.
Refer to - While South Korea says it intends to use Nuri to launch satellites, the test has also been
viewed as part of the country's ongoing ramp-up in weapons development. Ballistic missiles
and space rockets use similar technology.
a - FALSE.

309
Refer to - President Moon Jae-in said the vehicle completed its full flight sequence but failed in
its goal of putting a dummy satellite in orbit.
That means Nuri wasn't mechanically a complete failure.)
154. (Answer - C. Only b and c
b - FALSE.
Refer to - South Korea is locked in an arms race with North Korea, with both recently test-firing
new weapons.
arms race - a pattern of competitive acquisition of military capability between two or more
countries.
Hence, South Korea is indeed in a competitive state with North Korea.
c - FALSE.
Refer to - While South Korea is a technological powerhouse, it has lagged behind other countries
in its development for space exploration.
Hence, South Korea does not justify its technological prowess.
prowess - skill.
a - TRUE.
Refer to - Previous attempts by Seoul to launch a rocket in 2009 and 2010 failed, with the second
exploding seconds after take-off.
Hence, it's true that the rocket launched in 2010 by Seoul failed outright.
outright - instantly.)
155. (Answer - A. Only a and b
a - Correct.
Refer to - South Korea plans to carry out four more launches of the Nuri until 2027 to increase
reliability, according to the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) that is overseeing the launch.
b - Correct.
Refer to - Such launches are essential for a space programme but could potentially also have
military applications. South Korea is locked in an arms race with North Korea, with both recently
test-firing new weapons.
c - Incorrect.

310
Refer to - No such thing is mentioned. It's the author's statement that South Korea doesn't do
well when it comes to space exploration.)
156. (Answer - B. Only b and c)
157. (Answer - A. Only a and c
ramp-up / augmentation - increase.
diminution / step-down - reduction or decrease.)
158. (Answer - A. Only a and b
a - Correct.
Refer to - Such launches are essential for a space programme but could potentially also have
military applications. South Korea is locked in an arms race with North Korea, with both
recently test-firing new weapons. The North put a satellite in orbit in 2012.
b - Correct.
Refer to - While South Korea says it intends to use Nuri to launch satellites, the test has also been
viewed as part of the country's ongoing ramp-up in weapons development. Ballistic missiles
and space rockets use similar technology.
c - Incorrect.
It may be true, but it has nothing to do with the author's thinking, as expressed in the
question.)
159. (Answer - B. Only a and b
conjectural - speculative.
illustrative - informative and descriptive.
reproving - conveying or expressing blame or disapproval.
160. (Answer - C. DCBA
In a clear threat to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific, China sent more than 100 warplanes into
Taiwan’s air defence identification zone over the weekend.)

311
161. (Answer - A. BDAC
Much cooperation can also be achieved in green technology, IT, digital healthcare and telecom;
thus, India would do well to abandon its cautious approach and elevate ties with Taiwan both for
strategic and economic reasons.)
162. (Answer - B. DCBA
India has done well in vaccination but the general disregard for masking in public could end up
robbing the gains.
rob the gains - spoil the things that are achieved or acquired.)
elicit / arouse - to get or produce something, especially information or a reaction.
reciprocation - reaction or response.
'act' doesn't make sense.)
Solve it by tone.
detail - to provide details.
elation / delight - joy.)
exhausting / tiring - producing exhaustion.

health - wellbeing or wellness.
reposeful - relaxing.)
166. (Answer - A. n p m o q
Daniel Craig would have gotten off Bond duty earlier, had Covid-19 not pushed back the release of
his fifth and final Bond film, No Time to Die, by over a year.

312
167. (Answer - B. q m o n p
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared in Canberra that India would not allow itself to be “caught
napping” by Pakistan, which had jumped “a decade ahead of us” by acquiring sophisticated
armaments.
catch napping - to suddenly put (someone) in a position of being unprepared to deal with a situation
because of not paying attention.)
168. (Answer - D. o n m q p
The accords are an agreement to abide by a broad set of principles to guide the expanding human
activity on the moon, ranging from mining resources to setting up lunar colonies.)
growth / maturation - development.

tumble - a sudden or headlong fall.)
worthy / decent / respectable - characterized by propriety and dignity.)
imperative / essential (noun) - an essential thing.
alternative - option.)
house / domiciliate - provide housing for.
dissipate - disappear or cause to disappear.)
agglomeration / cluster - a mass or collection of things.
adjustment - a small alteration or movement made to achieve a desired fit, appearance, or result.
This word doesn't make sense.)

313
demographic - relating to the structure of populations.
empirical - based on, concerned with, or verifiable by observation or experience rather than theory
or pure logic.
cerebral - of the cerebrum of the brain.

175. (Answer - A. has been forced to accept the intervention
intervention - interference.)
176. (Answer - B. the entry of women poses several challenges to
pose - (of a question, problem, etc) ask, set or introduce.)
177. (Answer - A. Only I
turn a blind eye - pretend not to notice.)
178. (Answer - B. Both I and II
a slip of the tongue - something that is said by mistake.)
179. (Answer - A. Only III
at sea - confused and perplexed.)


314

heritage.

185. [Answer - D. Both a and b
recommend - push for something.
occupy - reside or have one's place of business in (a building).]

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Nimisha Bansal is one of India's most eminent educators of English

She is not only a highly-competent pedagog, but also a wonderful

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Getting a government job isn't a child's play nowadays. One must go

So, how can goals be accomplished?

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Finally, the temptation to give up is a common one, and nobody is

With love and lots of blessings

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Ishika Saini (SBI PO 2021-2022)

ISHIKA SAINI : Thank You so much mam! It was really unexpected,

ISHIKA SAINI : I mainly focused on the things I had command on like

3. How important and instrumental have Nimisha ma'am's various

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ISHIKA SAINI : My target was to study 7 - 8 hours a day. I used to give

7. What would you like to say to fellow aspirants?

ISHIKA SAINI : My aim was to clear this exam. So I completed my

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S.No. Chapter Name Page no

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A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c

a. Adapting technology to human nature or use.

A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c

A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Only c E. All a, b and c

A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Only c E. All a, b and c

a. How do we improve things? How do we re-humanise videoconferencing and other essential

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A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Only c E. All a, b and c

A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c

A. the way of care and nurturance

A. CAB B. BCA C. ACB D. BAC E. CBA

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a. Touch is the sense that has paid the highest price.

A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c

A. Both b and c B. Only a C. Both a and c D. Only b E. All a, b and c

A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c

A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only c D. Both a and b E. All a, b and c

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A. Only a B. Both b and c C. Only b D. Both a and c E. All a, b and c

A. peculiar demands of entrance tests

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