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Question 291

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Read the following passage and answer the questions based on the passage:

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from being a peripheral philanthropic gesture to an integral strategic imperative in contemporary business ecosystems. Modern corporations are increasingly cognizant of their multifaceted responsibilities—not only to shareholders but also to employees, consumers, communities, and the environment. This paradigm shift reflects a recognition that long-term profitability and sustainability are inextricably linked to ethical conduct and inclusive growth. CSR transcends token charity; it encompasses deliberate initiatives aimed at environmental stewardship, equitable labour practices, transparent governance, and community development. For instance, corporations may engage in afforestation drives, fund educational scholarships, ensure fair wages, or invest in renewable energy solutions. Such undertakings are not merely altruistic—they bolster corporate reputation, foster consumer loyalty, and mitigate regulatory risks. In some jurisdictions, like India, CSR has been legislated, mandating certain profit thresholds to be reinvested into socially beneficial projects, thereby institutionalizing moral capitalism. However, genuine CSR is distinguished from superficial public relations exercises by its intent, consistency, and impact measurement. Tokenistic CSR—where companies engage in isolated acts of giving to polish their public image—can often be counterproductive, exposing ethical hollowness when scrutinized. Conversely, purpose-driven CSR, embedded into core business strategies, can catalyze innovation and expand market reach, especially in underserved regions. Furthermore, stakeholders—particularly the socially conscious millennial and Gen Z demographics—now scrutinize corporate behaviour with unprecedented vigilance. With social media amplifying accountability, any dissonance between a company's stated values and its actions can provoke swift reputational damage. Therefore, CSR today is as much about risk mitigation as it is about value creation. Ultimately, the most impactful CSR initiatives are those that align profit motives with societal advancement. When businesses act not merely as economic entities but as responsible social agents, they contribute meaningfully to holistic progress, bridging the chasm between commerce and conscience.

​Which action reflects purpose-driven CSR as per the paragraph?

  1. AOption (a)

    Occasional charity events

  2. BOption (b)

    Investing in renewable energy

  3. COption (c)

    Publishing glossy brochures

  4. DOption (d)

    Avoiding taxes

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Investing in renewable energy

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Investing in renewable energy.

This reflects purpose-driven CSR as it aligns with long-term sustainability goals, showcasing genuine commitment to societal and environmental well-being rather than superficial actions.

Question 292

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Read the following passage and answer the questions based on the passage:

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from being a peripheral philanthropic gesture to an integral strategic imperative in contemporary business ecosystems. Modern corporations are increasingly cognizant of their multifaceted responsibilities—not only to shareholders but also to employees, consumers, communities, and the environment. This paradigm shift reflects a recognition that long-term profitability and sustainability are inextricably linked to ethical conduct and inclusive growth. CSR transcends token charity; it encompasses deliberate initiatives aimed at environmental stewardship, equitable labour practices, transparent governance, and community development. For instance, corporations may engage in afforestation drives, fund educational scholarships, ensure fair wages, or invest in renewable energy solutions. Such undertakings are not merely altruistic—they bolster corporate reputation, foster consumer loyalty, and mitigate regulatory risks. In some jurisdictions, like India, CSR has been legislated, mandating certain profit thresholds to be reinvested into socially beneficial projects, thereby institutionalizing moral capitalism. However, genuine CSR is distinguished from superficial public relations exercises by its intent, consistency, and impact measurement. Tokenistic CSR—where companies engage in isolated acts of giving to polish their public image—can often be counterproductive, exposing ethical hollowness when scrutinized. Conversely, purpose-driven CSR, embedded into core business strategies, can catalyze innovation and expand market reach, especially in underserved regions. Furthermore, stakeholders—particularly the socially conscious millennial and Gen Z demographics—now scrutinize corporate behaviour with unprecedented vigilance. With social media amplifying accountability, any dissonance between a company's stated values and its actions can provoke swift reputational damage. Therefore, CSR today is as much about risk mitigation as it is about value creation. Ultimately, the most impactful CSR initiatives are those that align profit motives with societal advancement. When businesses act not merely as economic entities but as responsible social agents, they contribute meaningfully to holistic progress, bridging the chasm between commerce and conscience.

How does the author differentiate genuine CSR from tokenistic CSR?

  1. AOption (a)

    Through environmental certification

  2. BOption (b)

    Through government involvement

  3. COption (c)

    Through intent and impact

  4. DOption (d)

    Through marketing partnerships

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Through intent and impact

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: option 3 (Through intent and impact). The author emphasizes genuine CSR by focusing on the authenticity of a company's intentions and the measurable impact of their actions, distinguishing it from superficial efforts.

Question 293

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Read the following passage and answer the questions based on the passage:

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from being a peripheral philanthropic gesture to an integral strategic imperative in contemporary business ecosystems. Modern corporations are increasingly cognizant of their multifaceted responsibilities—not only to shareholders but also to employees, consumers, communities, and the environment. This paradigm shift reflects a recognition that long-term profitability and sustainability are inextricably linked to ethical conduct and inclusive growth. CSR transcends token charity; it encompasses deliberate initiatives aimed at environmental stewardship, equitable labour practices, transparent governance, and community development. For instance, corporations may engage in afforestation drives, fund educational scholarships, ensure fair wages, or invest in renewable energy solutions. Such undertakings are not merely altruistic—they bolster corporate reputation, foster consumer loyalty, and mitigate regulatory risks. In some jurisdictions, like India, CSR has been legislated, mandating certain profit thresholds to be reinvested into socially beneficial projects, thereby institutionalizing moral capitalism. However, genuine CSR is distinguished from superficial public relations exercises by its intent, consistency, and impact measurement. Tokenistic CSR—where companies engage in isolated acts of giving to polish their public image—can often be counterproductive, exposing ethical hollowness when scrutinized. Conversely, purpose-driven CSR, embedded into core business strategies, can catalyze innovation and expand market reach, especially in underserved regions. Furthermore, stakeholders—particularly the socially conscious millennial and Gen Z demographics—now scrutinize corporate behaviour with unprecedented vigilance. With social media amplifying accountability, any dissonance between a company's stated values and its actions can provoke swift reputational damage. Therefore, CSR today is as much about risk mitigation as it is about value creation. Ultimately, the most impactful CSR initiatives are those that align profit motives with societal advancement. When businesses act not merely as economic entities but as responsible social agents, they contribute meaningfully to holistic progress, bridging the chasm between commerce and conscience.

​What is the role of legislation in CSR according to the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    It promotes shareholder profits

  2. BOption (b)

    It enforces minimum standards

  3. COption (c)

    It abolishes business taxes

  4. DOption (d)

    It restricts competition

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

It enforces minimum standards

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: It enforces minimum standards.

Legislation plays a vital role in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by ensuring businesses adhere to minimum standards, promoting ethical practices and accountability, as highlighted in the passage.

Question 294

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Read the following passage and answer the questions based on the passage:

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has evolved from being a peripheral philanthropic gesture to an integral strategic imperative in contemporary business ecosystems. Modern corporations are increasingly cognizant of their multifaceted responsibilities—not only to shareholders but also to employees, consumers, communities, and the environment. This paradigm shift reflects a recognition that long-term profitability and sustainability are inextricably linked to ethical conduct and inclusive growth. CSR transcends token charity; it encompasses deliberate initiatives aimed at environmental stewardship, equitable labour practices, transparent governance, and community development. For instance, corporations may engage in afforestation drives, fund educational scholarships, ensure fair wages, or invest in renewable energy solutions. Such undertakings are not merely altruistic—they bolster corporate reputation, foster consumer loyalty, and mitigate regulatory risks. In some jurisdictions, like India, CSR has been legislated, mandating certain profit thresholds to be reinvested into socially beneficial projects, thereby institutionalizing moral capitalism. However, genuine CSR is distinguished from superficial public relations exercises by its intent, consistency, and impact measurement. Tokenistic CSR—where companies engage in isolated acts of giving to polish their public image—can often be counterproductive, exposing ethical hollowness when scrutinized. Conversely, purpose-driven CSR, embedded into core business strategies, can catalyze innovation and expand market reach, especially in underserved regions. Furthermore, stakeholders—particularly the socially conscious millennial and Gen Z demographics—now scrutinize corporate behaviour with unprecedented vigilance. With social media amplifying accountability, any dissonance between a company's stated values and its actions can provoke swift reputational damage. Therefore, CSR today is as much about risk mitigation as it is about value creation. Ultimately, the most impactful CSR initiatives are those that align profit motives with societal advancement. When businesses act not merely as economic entities but as responsible social agents, they contribute meaningfully to holistic progress, bridging the chasm between commerce and conscience.

​Why are millennials and Gen Z considered important in the CSR discourse?

  1. AOption (a)

    They dislike capitalism

  2. BOption (b)

    They support traditional businesses

  3. COption (c)

    They demand ethical transparency

  4. DOption (d)

    They avoid social media

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

They demand ethical transparency

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 3 (They demand ethical transparency).

Millennials and Gen Z are considered important in CSR discourse because they prioritize ethical transparency and expect businesses to align with social and environmental values.

Question 295

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Choose the most suitable option to replace the highlighted part of the sentence:

He walked slowly lest he should fall.

  1. AOption (a)

    in order to not fall

  2. BOption (b)

    so that he may not fall

  3. COption (c)

    lest he fall

  4. DOption (d)

    No improvement

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

No improvement

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'No improvement'.

 

Key Points

  • The word "lest" is used to express a fear or a precaution.
  • It is followed by either should or the subjunctive base form of the verb.
  • The original phrase "lest he should fall" is grammatically correct and standard.
  • Option 3, "lest he fall," is also grammatically correct, but as the original sentence is correct as written, no improvement is required.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 5.

 

Complete Sentence: "He walked slowly lest he should fall."

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "in order to not fall" is incorrect as it doesn't fit the structure of the sentence.
  • Option 2: "so that he may not fall" is wordy and less precise.
  • Option 4: "for fear of falling" changes the grammatical structure.

Question 296

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Choose the most suitable option to replace the highlighted part of the sentence:

He speaks English good.

  1. AOption (a)

    very good

  2. BOption (b)

    nicely

  3. COption (c)

    fluently

  4. DOption (d)

    well

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

well

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'well'.

 

Key Points

  • The adverb "well" is used to describe how someone performs an action, specifically in a skillful or effective manner.
  • In this context, "He speaks English" requires an adverb to modify the verb "speaks" appropriately.
  • Option 1 (very good) is incorrect because "good" is an adjective, and the phrase would still be grammatically incorrect.
  • Option 2 (nicely) is incorrect because it does not convey the intended meaning of proficiency in speaking English.
  • Option 3 (fluently) is incorrect because the sentence does not explicitly refer to fluency but rather to speaking skill in general.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4.

 

Complete Sentence: "He speaks English well."

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "very good" is not suitable as "good" is an adjective and cannot modify the verb "speaks" directly.
  • Option 2: "nicely" is grammatically correct but does not convey the intended meaning of skill or proficiency.
  • Option 3: "fluently" specifically refers to the ability to speak a language smoothly and accurately, which is not the focus of the original sentence.

Question 297

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

A sentence is provided in direct speech. From the four given options, choose the one that most accurately conveys the sentence in its corresponding indirect speech. She said, "My parents will arrive today."

  1. AOption (a)

    She said that her parents will arrive that day.

  2. BOption (b)

    She said her parents would arrive today.

  3. COption (c)

    She said that her parents would arrive that day.

  4. DOption (d)

    She said her parents would be arriving today.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

She said that her parents would arrive that day.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3.

 

Key Points

  • Indirect Speech: She said that her parents would arrive that day.
  • Key Conversions:
  • "today" becomes "that day"
  • The adverb "today" is replaced with "that day" in indirect speech.
  • "will arrive" becomes "would arrive"
  • The future tense "will" is changed to "would" to match the indirect speech format.
  • Reporting verb:
  • Direct: "She said,"
  • Indirect: "She said that" is used to introduce the reported clause.
  • Punctuation and Format:
  • Quotation marks are removed in indirect speech.
  • The sentence is written in a declarative structure.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Correct Sentence: "She said that her parents would arrive that day."

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "She said that her parents will arrive that day."
  • Incorrect tense: "will" should be changed to "would" in indirect speech.
  • Option 2: "She said her parents would arrive today."
  • Incorrect adverb: "today" should be replaced with "that day" in indirect speech.
  • Option 4: "She said her parents would be arriving today."
  • Incorrect adverb: "today" should be changed to "that day."
  • The use of "would be arriving" is not as accurate as "would arrive" in this context.

Question 298

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

A sentence is provided in indirect speech. From the four given options, choose the one that most accurately conveys the sentence in its corresponding direct speech. He said that he wished to speak with the manager.

  1. AOption (a)

    "I wish to speak with the manager," he said.

  2. BOption (b)

    "I want to speak with the manager," he said.

  3. COption (c)

    "I wished to speak with the manager," he said.

  4. DOption (d)

    "May I speak with the manager?" he said.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

"I wish to speak with the manager," he said.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

 

Key Points

  • Indirect Speech: He said that he wished to speak with the manager.
  • Key Conversions:
  • "he wished to speak" becomes "I wish to speak"
  • Pronoun "he" is converted to "I" to match direct speech.
  • Verb "wished" is changed to "wish" to match the present tense in direct speech.
  • Punctuation and Format:
  • Direct speech is enclosed in quotation marks.
  • Starts with a capital letter "I" and ends with a period ".".
  • Reporting clause follows the quoted speech, starting with a lowercase letter after the comma.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 1.

 

Correct Sentence: "“I wish to speak with the manager,” he said."

 

Additional Information

  • Option 2: "I want to speak with the manager," he said.
  • The word "want" changes the tone and meaning, suggesting a stronger desire rather than a polite wish.
  • Option 3: "I wished to speak with the manager," he said.
  • Tense is incorrect: "wished" implies past, whereas the original sentence indicates a present wish.
  • Option 4: "May I speak with the manager?" he said.
  • Changes the sentence into a question, altering the original statement format.

Question 299

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph:

  1. It is a process that involves the systematic and objective investigation of a subject to discover new facts or to confirm existing ones.

  2. Research is a foundational pillar of academic and scientific progress.

  3. This can be either theoretical, aiming to expand knowledge, or applied, seeking to solve a practical problem.

  4. The findings of this investigation are then documented and peer-reviewed to ensure validity and credibility.

  1. AOption (a)

    2, 1, 3, 4

  2. BOption (b)

    1, 2, 4, 3

  3. COption (c)

    4, 3, 2, 1

  4. DOption (d)

    3, 4, 1, 2

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

2, 1, 3, 4

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

  • The paragraph begins by introducing the role and importance of research in academic and scientific progress.
  • Sentence 2 is the first sentence as it establishes the foundational role of research:
  • "Research is a foundational pillar of academic and scientific progress."
  • Sentence 1 follows as it defines research in a systematic manner:
  • "It is a process that involves the systematic and objective investigation of a subject to discover new facts or to confirm existing ones."
  • Sentence 3 is the third sentence as it elaborates on the two types of research:
  • "This can be either theoretical, aiming to expand knowledge, or applied, seeking to solve a practical problem."
  • Sentence 4 is the final sentence as it concludes by mentioning the documentation and peer-review process:
  • "The findings of this investigation are then documented and peer-reviewed to ensure validity and credibility."
  • The correct sequence is 2, 1, 3, 4.

Coherent paragraph after rearrangement:

"Research is a foundational pillar of academic and scientific progress. It is a process that involves the systematic and objective investigation of a subject to discover new facts or to confirm existing ones. This can be either theoretical, aiming to expand knowledge, or applied, seeking to solve a practical problem. The findings of this investigation are then documented and peer-reviewed to ensure validity and credibility."

Question 300

SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) 2025• English Comprehension• English Comprehension

Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph:

  1. A key strategy is to diversify energy sources, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable alternatives like solar, wind, and geothermal power.

  2. To mitigate the worst effects of climate change, the global community must drastically reduce its reliance on carbon-intensive energy production.

  3. This shift not only decreases greenhouse gas emissions but also improves air quality and creates new economic opportunities.

  4. Additionally, policies that promote energy efficiency in buildings and transportation can further lower overall energy consumption.

  1. AOption (a)

    2, 1, 3, 4

  2. BOption (b)

    1, 2, 3, 4

  3. COption (c)

    4, 1, 2, 3

  4. DOption (d)

    2, 3, 1, 4

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

2, 1, 3, 4

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

  • The paragraph aims to establish strategies for mitigating climate change and reducing reliance on carbon-intensive energy production.
  • Sentence 2 is the first sentence as it introduces the global community's goal:
  • "To mitigate the worst effects of climate change, the global community must drastically reduce its reliance on carbon-intensive energy production."
  • Sentence 1 follows as it elaborates on the key strategy to achieve the goal:
  • "A key strategy is to diversify energy sources, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable alternatives like solar, wind, and geothermal power."
  • Sentence 3 is the third sentence as it explains the benefits of this shift:
  • "This shift not only decreases greenhouse gas emissions but also improves air quality and creates new economic opportunities."
  • Sentence 4 is the fourth sentence as it highlights additional policies to complement the strategy:
  • "Additionally, policies that promote energy efficiency in buildings and transportation can further lower overall energy consumption."
  • The correct sequence is 2, 1, 3, 4.

Coherent paragraph after rearrangement:

"To mitigate the worst effects of climate change, the global community must drastically reduce its reliance on carbon-intensive energy production. A key strategy is to diversify energy sources, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable alternatives like solar, wind, and geothermal power. This shift not only decreases greenhouse gas emissions but also improves air quality and creates new economic opportunities. Additionally, policies that promote energy efficiency in buildings and transportation can further lower overall energy consumption."