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Question 421

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

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

While financial inclusion is often praised as a driver of equitable growth, its implementation in rural India presents a paradox. On paper, schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), Aadhaar-enabled payment systems, and mobile banking have revolutionized access. Yet, in practice, access does not necessarily translate into utility. A significant number of rural account holders remain dormant users, often constrained by digital illiteracy, infrastructural limitations, and deeply entrenched socio-cultural barriers. In numerous villages, banking correspondents (BCs)—the foot soldiers of India's rural financial architecture—are overburdened, undertrained, and often unsupported by robust technological infrastructure. The notion that a biometric fingerprint or a one-time password could substitute for financial literacy is naïve at best. Many beneficiaries, especially women, face systemic exclusion, not just due to lack of documentation, but because patriarchal norms often discourage or control women’s interactions with banking services. Moreover, while financial inclusion aims to integrate the rural poor into the formal economy, the informal credit system continues to flourish. This coexistence is not accidental but symptomatic of a trust deficit and functional inefficiencies within formal institutions. Local moneylenders, albeit exploitative, offer immediacy and familiarity, elements often absent in bureaucratic banking processes. The digital push, accelerated post-2016 demonetization and COVID-19, has undoubtedly expanded the ecosystem. However, digital penetration without digital comprehension can widen the exclusion gap. Without focused digital education, grievance redressal mechanisms, and gender-sensitive outreach, financial inclusion may remain more rhetorical than real. In essence, true inclusion cannot be measured merely by the number of accounts opened but must reflect active participation, trust, and accessibility across gender, literacy, and regional lines. Until then, the dream of a financially empowered rural India will remain aspirational.

What is implied about women's financial inclusion in rural India?

  1. AOption (a)

    They benefit more from informal lenders

  2. BOption (b)

    Lack of Aadhaar is the main barrier

  3. COption (c)

    Cultural factors hinder their financial agency

  4. DOption (d)

    They lead financial decisions at home

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Cultural factors hinder their financial agency

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Option 3'.

 

Key Points

  • Option 1: They benefit more from informal lenders
  • This cannot be inferred. The passage mentions informal credit systems but does not state that women benefit more from them.
  • Option 2: Lack of Aadhaar is the main barrier
  • This cannot be inferred. While documentation issues are mentioned, the passage emphasizes cultural and patriarchal barriers as more significant obstacles.
  • Option 3: Cultural factors hinder their financial agency
  • This can be inferred. The passage clearly states that patriarchal norms discourage or control women’s interactions with banking services, limiting their financial inclusion.
  • Option 4: They lead financial decisions at home
  • This cannot be inferred. The passage suggests the opposite—that women’s financial agency is restricted by cultural norms.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Incorrect because women’s reliance on informal lenders is not highlighted as a unique benefit.
  • Option 2: Incorrect because documentation is mentioned, but patriarchal norms are emphasized as the deeper issue.
  • Option 3: Correct because cultural and patriarchal factors are explicitly identified as hindering women’s financial inclusion.
  • Option 4: Incorrect because the passage shows women’s financial decisions are often controlled, not led, by them.

Question 422

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

Select the correct option for the Direct Speech conversion of the sentence below.

The composer explained that, were the leitmotif transposed an octave higher, the tension might dissipate prematurely.

  1. AOption (a)

    The composer said, "If the leitmotif was transposed an octave higher, the tension will dissipate prematurely."

  2. BOption (b)

    The composer said, "Were the leitmotif transposed an octave higher, the tension might dissipate prematurely."

  3. COption (c)

    The composer said, "The tension will dissipate prematurely if the leitmotif had been transposed an octave higher."

  4. DOption (d)

    The composer said, "Had the leitmotif been transposed an octave higher, the tension must have dissipated prematurely."

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

The composer said, "Were the leitmotif transposed an octave higher, the tension might dissipate prematurely."

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • Indirect Speech: The composer explained that, were the leitmotif transposed an octave higher, the tension might dissipate prematurely.
  • Key Conversions:
  • "were the leitmotif transposed" remains "Were the leitmotif transposed"
  • The subjunctive mood in indirect speech ("were") is retained in direct speech.
  • The sentence structure remains unchanged as it is already in hypothetical form.
  • "the tension might dissipate prematurely" remains unchanged
  • Modal verb "might" remains the same as it reflects a possibility in both speech forms.
  • Reporting verb:
  • Indirect: "explained"
  • Converted to: "said" to simplify and align with direct speech conventions.
  • Punctuation and Format:
  • Direct speech is enclosed in quotation marks.
  • Starts with a capital letter "Were" and ends with a period ".".
  • Reporting clause precedes the quoted speech, ending with a comma.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

 

Correct Sentence: *"*The composer said, "Were the leitmotif transposed an octave higher, the tension might dissipate prematurely.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "If the leitmotif was transposed an octave higher, the tension will dissipate prematurely."
  • Incorrect because "was" instead of "were" changes the subjunctive mood to indicative, altering the intended meaning.
  • Modal verb "will" is incorrect; "might" is more appropriate for the conditional nature of the sentence.
  • Option 3: "The tension will dissipate prematurely if the leitmotif had been transposed an octave higher."
  • Incorrect tense: "had been" is past perfect, which does not match the hypothetical mood of the original sentence.
  • The use of "will" instead of "might" changes the intended meaning.
  • Option 4: "Had the leitmotif been transposed an octave higher, the tension must have dissipated prematurely."
  • Incorrect: "must have" indicates certainty, which is not implied in the original sentence.
  • The hypothetical nature of the original sentence is lost.

Question 423

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.

He said, "I have seen that movie already."

  1. AOption (a)

    He said that he saw that movie already.

  2. BOption (b)

    He said that he had seen that movie already.

  3. COption (c)

    He said that he have seen that movie already.

  4. DOption (d)

    He said that he was seeing that movie already.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

He said that he had seen that movie already.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • Indirect Speech: He said that he had seen that movie already.
  • Key Conversions:
  • "I have seen" becomes "he had seen"
  • The verb "have seen" is converted to "had seen" to match the past perfect tense in indirect speech.
  • The pronoun "I" changes to "he" to match the subject of the reporting clause.
  • "that movie already" remains unchanged
  • The object "that movie" and the adverb "already" remain the same as they do not require modification.
  • Reporting verb:
  • Indirect: "said" is used to report the speech verbatim without alteration.
  • Punctuation and Format:
  • Quotation marks are removed in indirect speech.
  • The sentence structure is adjusted to maintain grammatical consistency.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

 

Correct Sentence: "He said that he had seen that movie already."

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "He said that he saw that movie already."
  • Incorrect tense: "saw" does not match the correct past perfect tense required for indirect speech.
  • Option 3: "He said that he have seen that movie already."
  • Incorrect verb form: "have seen" is grammatically incorrect in indirect speech.
  • Option 4: "He said that he was seeing that movie already."
  • Incorrect tense: "was seeing" alters the meaning to a continuous action, which does not match the original statement.

Question 424

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

Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph:

  1. The most prevalent of these is the peer review process, where a manuscript is evaluated by other experts in the same field.
  2. The integrity of scientific publications is upheld by a series of rigorous checks and balances.
  3. The goal of this process is to validate the methodology, findings, and conclusions of the research before it is made public.
  4. This external scrutiny helps to ensure that only high-quality, credible research is disseminated to the scientific community.
  1. AOption (a)

    2, 1, 3, 4

  2. BOption (b)

    1, 2, 3, 4

  3. COption (c)

    3, 4, 1, 2

  4. DOption (d)

    4, 3, 2, 1

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 discusses the integrity of scientific publications and how it is maintained through a peer review process.
  • Sentence 2 is the first sentence as it introduces the overarching theme of maintaining the integrity of scientific publications:
  • "The integrity of scientific publications is upheld by a series of rigorous checks and balances."
  • Sentence 1 follows as it describes the most common method used to ensure this integrity:
  • "The most prevalent of these is the peer review process, where a manuscript is evaluated by other experts in the same field."
  • Sentence 3 is the third sentence as it explains the goal of the peer review process:
  • "The goal of this process is to validate the methodology, findings, and conclusions of the research before it is made public."
  • Sentence 4 is the last sentence as it highlights the outcome of the peer review process:
  • "This external scrutiny helps to ensure that only high-quality, credible research is disseminated to the scientific community."
  • The correct sequence is 2, 1, 3, 4.

Coherent paragraph after rearrangement:

"The integrity of scientific publications is upheld by a series of rigorous checks and balances. The most prevalent of these is the peer review process, where a manuscript is evaluated by other experts in the same field. The goal of this process is to validate the methodology, findings, and conclusions of the research before it is made public. This external scrutiny helps to ensure that only high-quality, credible research is disseminated to the scientific community."

Question 425

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

Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph:

  1. This allows them to navigate and perform tasks with a high degree of precision in various environments, from factory floors to surgical theaters.
  2. Robotics is an interdisciplinary field of engineering and computer science that deals with the design, construction, and operation of robots.
  3. The core of a modern robot is its programming, which utilizes sophisticated algorithms and sensors to process information.
  4. These machines are designed to assist humans by automating tasks that are either repetitive, hazardous, or require a level of accuracy beyond human capability.
  1. AOption (a)

    2, 4, 3, 1

  2. BOption (b)

    4, 3, 1, 2

  3. COption (c)

    3, 1, 2, 4

  4. DOption (d)

    2, 3, 4, 1

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

2, 4, 3, 1

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

  • The paragraph discusses robotics and its applications in a logical order.
  • Sentence 2 is the first sentence as it introduces the field of robotics:
  • "Robotics is an interdisciplinary field of engineering and computer science that deals with the design, construction, and operation of robots."
  • Sentence 4 follows as it explains the purpose of these machines:
  • "These machines are designed to assist humans by automating tasks that are either repetitive, hazardous, or require a level of accuracy beyond human capability."
  • Sentence 3 is the third sentence as it describes the programming and algorithms used in robots:
  • "The core of a modern robot is its programming, which utilizes sophisticated algorithms and sensors to process information."
  • Sentence 1 is the fourth as it concludes by explaining how these features allow robots to perform tasks with precision:
  • "This allows them to navigate and perform tasks with a high degree of precision in various environments, from factory floors to surgical theaters."
  • The correct sequence is 2, 4, 3, 1.

Coherent paragraph after rearrangement:

"Robotics is an interdisciplinary field of engineering and computer science that deals with the design, construction, and operation of robots. These machines are designed to assist humans by automating tasks that are either repetitive, hazardous, or require a level of accuracy beyond human capability. The core of a modern robot is its programming, which utilizes sophisticated algorithms and sensors to process information. This allows them to navigate and perform tasks with a high degree of precision in various environments, from factory floors to surgical theaters."

Question 426

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

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word: REBELLIOUS

  1. AOption (a)

    Submissive

  2. BOption (b)

    Obedient

  3. COption (c)

    Disobedient

  4. DOption (d)

    Agreeable

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Disobedient

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Disobedient.

Key Points

  • The word "Rebellious" refers to a person or behavior that resists authority, control, or convention. It signifies defiance and a refusal to conform. (विद्रोही)
  • Example: The rebellious teenager refused to follow the school rules and often challenged the teachers.
  • "Disobedient" means refusing to obey rules or someone in authority, which aligns closely with the meaning of "rebellious." (आज्ञा न मानने वाला)
  • Example: The disobedient child ignored his parents' instructions and continued playing outside.
  • Hence, we can infer that the synonym of "rebellious" is "disobedient".

Therefore, the correct answer is: Disobedient.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Submissive (आज्ञाकारी): Ready to conform to the authority or will of others; meekly obedient or passive.
  • Example: The submissive employee always followed instructions without questioning.
  • Obedient (आज्ञाकारी): Willing to comply with orders or requests; dutiful.
  • Example: The obedient dog followed every command its owner gave.
  • Agreeable (सहमत): Willing to agree or consent; pleasant and easy to get along with.
  • Example: She is an agreeable person who enjoys making others feel comfortable.

Question 427

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

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word: EULOGY

  1. AOption (a)

    Tribute

  2. BOption (b)

    Criticism

  3. COption (c)

    Insult

  4. DOption (d)

    Condemnation

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Tribute

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Tribute.

Key Points

  • The word "Eulogy" means a speech or piece of writing that praises someone or something highly, especially someone who has just died. (प्रशंसा / स्तुति)
  • Example: The priest delivered a heartfelt eulogy at the funeral, remembering the deceased's kindness and contributions.
  • "Tribute" refers to an act, statement, or gift that is intended to show gratitude, respect, or admiration. (श्रद्धांजलि / सम्मान)
  • Example: The statue was built as a tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country.
  • Hence, the word "Tribute" is a synonym of "Eulogy", as they both convey admiration and respect for someone or something.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Tribute.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Criticism (आलोचना): The expression of disapproval of someone or something based on perceived faults or mistakes.
  • Example: The movie received harsh criticism from the audience for its weak storyline.
  • Insult (अपमान): A disrespectful or scornful remark or action.
  • Example: His rude comment was taken as an insult by the audience.
  • Condemnation (निंदा): The expression of very strong disapproval or censure.
  • Example: The government faced widespread condemnation for its handling of the crisis.

Question 428

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

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. Turpitude

  1. AOption (a)

    Depravity

  2. BOption (b)

    Vice

  3. COption (c)

    Morality

  4. DOption (d)

    Sin

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Morality

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Morality.

Key Points

  • The word "Turpitude" refers to wickedness, depravity, or immoral behavior. (दुष्टता, नीचता)
  • Example: The court condemned the turpitude displayed by the corrupt officials.
  • "Morality" denotes principles concerning the distinction between right and wrong or good and bad behavior. It reflects virtuous conduct and ethics. (नैतिकता)
  • Example: He is known for his strong morality and ethical decision-making in business.
  • Hence, we can infer that the opposite of 'turpitude' is 'morality'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Morality.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Depravity (दुष्टता): Moral corruption or wickedness.
  • Example: The novel describes the depravity of the aristocratic society during that era.
  • Vice (दोष): Immoral or wicked behavior; a bad habit.
  • Example: Gambling is often considered a vice that can lead to financial ruin.
  • Sin (पाप): An act considered morally wrong or a transgression against divine law.
  • Example: According to religious teachings, stealing is a sin.

Question 429

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

Choose the correct meaning of idiom:

To cry stinking fish

  1. AOption (a)

    Boasting excessively

  2. BOption (b)

    Ridiculing others

  3. COption (c)

    Taking pride silently

  4. DOption (d)

    Undervaluing one's own worth or effort

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Undervaluing one's own worth or effort

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 4.

Key Points

  • The idiom "To cry stinking fish" refers to undervaluing one's own worth or effort. It means presenting oneself negatively or undermining one's own abilities. (अपने स्वयं के मूल्य या प्रयास को कम आंकना)
  • Example: Despite his hard work, he always cries stinking fish and says his efforts are not good enough.
  • This phrase is often used to describe people who fail to recognize their own talents or achievements and focus instead on their perceived flaws or shortcomings. (अपने स्वयं के दोषों पर ध्यान केंद्रित करना और अपने कौशल को कम आंकना)

Therefore, the correct answer is: Option 4.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Option 1: Boasting excessively (अत्यधिक घमंड करना): To brag or show off excessively about one's achievements or qualities.
  • Example: He was boasting excessively about his promotion at the office party.
  • Option 2: Ridiculing others (दूसरों का मजाक उड़ाना): To mock or make fun of someone in a hurtful way.
  • Example: Ridiculing others for their mistakes is not a good quality.
  • Option 3: Taking pride silently (चुपचाप गर्व महसूस करना): To feel proud without expressing it openly.
  • Example: She silently took pride in her son's achievements.

Question 430

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

Which is the correct spelling for 'a statement of beliefs'?

  1. AOption (a)

    Creed

  2. BOption (b)

    Creade

  3. COption (c)

    Crid

  4. DOption (d)

    Credd

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Creed

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 1.

Key Points

The correct word is 'Creed'.

  • 'Creed' refers to a set of beliefs or aims that guide someone's actions. (विश्वास)
  • For Example -
  • He lived by a simple creed: honesty above all.

Therefore, the correct spelling for 'a statement of beliefs' is 'Creed'.

Additional Information

Explanation of other options -

  • Creade - Incorrect spelling, does not refer to anything meaningful.
  • Crid - Incorrect spelling, not associated with 'a statement of beliefs'.
  • Credd - Incorrect spelling, does not carry any meaning.