Which of the following is the most appropriate option to fill in the blank labelled as (A)?
- AOption (a)
robustness
- BOption (b)
adaptability
- COption (c)
fragility
- DOption (d)
equilibrium
- EOption (e)
redundancy
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Correct answer
fragility
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is 'fragility'.
Key Points
- The sentence explains that geopolitical tensions and systemic shocks have revealed or highlighted the weakness of hyper-globalized, just-in-time manufacturing models.
- The context demands a noun that refers to vulnerability, weakness, or delicacy in the face of disruptions.
- "Fragility" means the quality of being delicate, easily broken, or vulnerable, which accurately captures the exposed vulnerabilities of just-in-time supply chains.
- Other options ("robustness", "adaptability", "equilibrium", "redundancy") suggest strength, flexibility, balance, or safety buffers, which contradict the idea that these models were exposed as vulnerable.
Therefore, the correct answer is 'Option 3'.
Complete Passage: Global economic integration, long driven by the pursuit of cost efficiency, is undergoing a structural realignment toward supply chain resilience. Geopolitical tensions and recent systemic shocks have exposed the inherent (A) fragility of hyper-globalized, just-in-time manufacturing models. Corporations are increasingly abandoning single-source dependencies in favour of strategy shifts like nearshoring and friendshoring to (B) ________ against operational risks. While these changes enhance security against external disruptions, they also threaten to (C) ________ baseline production costs and consumer prices globally. Economists warn that a sudden, uncoordinated fracturing of trade blocs could severely (D) ________ international commerce, particularly impacting developing economies reliant on export markets. Finding an optimal balance between sovereign economic self-reliance and global trade synergy is a highly (E) ________ endeavour. Policymakers must proceed cautiously to avoid triggering an era of stagflation and persistent economic (F) ________.
Additional Information
- Robustness (मजबूती / दृढ़ता): "Robustness" means the quality or condition of being strong and in good condition.
- Adaptability (अनुकूलनशीलता): "Adaptability" means the quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.
- Equilibrium (संतुलन): "Equilibrium" means a state of balance between opposing forces.
- Redundancy (अतिरिक्तता / दोहराव): "Redundancy" means the inclusion of extra components to provide protection in case of failure.