Search Previous Year Questions

Find real questions from previous competitive exam papers with answers and solutions.

Leave the keyword blank to browse saved questions for your selected exam, newest papers first. Add a keyword, year or topic to narrow the results.

Browse complete papers
Showing 10 question(s)
Clear

Question 401

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

Find the antonym of ‘Impute’. 

  1. AOption (a)

    Support

  2. BOption (b)

    Energetic  

  3. COption (c)

    Cheerful 

  4. DOption (d)

    Lively 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Support

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Support.

Key Points

  • The word "Impute" means to attribute or assign something, especially a fault or wrongdoing, to someone or something. (आरोप लगाना)
  • Example: The manager imputed the delay to the workers' lack of efficiency.
  • "Support" refers to providing assistance, backing, or help to someone or something, which is the opposite of blaming or attributing faults. (समर्थन)
  • Example: She supported her friend during the difficult times, ensuring he never felt alone.
  • Hence, we can infer that the opposite of 'Impute' is 'Support'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Support.

Additional Information

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

  • Energetic (ऊर्जावान): Full of energy, enthusiasm, or vitality.
  • Example: The energetic child kept running around the playground for hours.
  • Cheerful (प्रसन्न): Noticeably happy and optimistic.
  • Example: Her cheerful attitude always brightens up the room.
  • Lively (जीवंत): Full of life and energy; active and outgoing.
  • Example: The lively music at the party kept everyone dancing all night.

Question 402

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Universal immunization campaigns have eradicated or controlled fatal conditions such as smallpox and polio. Mass immunization relies on cold-chain availability: vaccines have to be stored at precise temperatures from manufacturing through inoculation. Solar-powered refrigerators and insulated containers are lifelines for remote locations. Door-to-door interactions by community health workers educate households regarding dosage routines and myths. Vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation is also a major obstacle to herd immunity. Campaigns of public education-capitalizing on radio, social media, and school initiatives-seek to revive public faith in science. Preserving accessibility and communication in an open nature is crucial in order to secure public health.

What does “cold-chain logistics" refer to in the passage? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Transporting vaccines under controlled temperatures

  2. BOption (b)

    Selling vaccines in cold climates 

  3. COption (c)

    Developing new vaccine formulas  

  4. DOption (d)

    Distributing medicines door-to-door 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Transporting vaccines under controlled temperatures

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

 

Key Points

  • The term "cold-chain logistics" refers to the system of storing and transporting vaccines at controlled temperatures to ensure their effectiveness. (नियंत्रित तापमान पर टीकों का परिवहन और भंडारण)
  • Vaccines must remain at precise temperatures from manufacturing to inoculation to prevent them from losing potency.
  • Cold-chain logistics typically involve refrigerators, insulated containers, and monitoring equipment.
  • Example: Solar-powered refrigerators are essential in remote areas to maintain the cold chain for vaccines.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 1.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 2: Selling vaccines in cold climates (ठंडे मौसम में टीके बेचना) – Incorrect; cold-chain logistics refers to controlled temperature transport, not climate-specific selling.
  • Option 3: Developing new vaccine formulas (नई टीका फॉर्मूले विकसित करना) – Incorrect; this is about vaccine creation, not storage or transport.
  • Option 4: Distributing medicines door-to-door (दवाइयों का घर-घर वितरण) – Incorrect; cold-chain logistics specifically involves temperature-controlled transport, not general distribution.

Question 403

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Universal immunization campaigns have eradicated or controlled fatal conditions such as smallpox and polio. Mass immunization relies on cold-chain availability: vaccines have to be stored at precise temperatures from manufacturing through inoculation. Solar-powered refrigerators and insulated containers are lifelines for remote locations. Door-to-door interactions by community health workers educate households regarding dosage routines and myths. Vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation is also a major obstacle to herd immunity. Campaigns of public education-capitalizing on radio, social media, and school initiatives-seek to revive public faith in science. Preserving accessibility and communication in an open nature is crucial in order to secure public health.

According to the passage, which method helps maintain vaccine potency in remote areas? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Air-conditioned cars 

  2. BOption (b)

    Solar-powered refrigerator: 

  3. COption (c)

    Vaccine-heated containers 

  4. DOption (d)

    Underground storage 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Solar-powered refrigerator: 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • Vaccines require precise temperature control from manufacturing to inoculation to maintain potency. (टीका क्षमता)
  • Cold-chain management is crucial, especially in remote locations without regular electricity supply. (ठंडी श्रृंखला प्रबंधन)
  • Solar-powered refrigerators and insulated containers provide continuous cooling for vaccines in such areas. (सौर-शक्ति युक्त रेफ्रिजरेटर)
  • These tools help ensure that vaccines remain effective until administered. (टीकों की प्रभावशीलता बनाए रखना)

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Air-conditioned cars (एयर-कंडीशन्ड कारें) – Not practical for remote areas and cannot provide continuous cooling.
  • Option 3: Vaccine-heated containers (टीका-तापित कंटेनर) – Heating vaccines destroys their potency, making this option incorrect.
  • Option 4: Underground storage (भूमिगत भंडारण) – May provide some insulation but does not guarantee precise temperature control required for vaccines.

Question 404

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Universal immunization campaigns have eradicated or controlled fatal conditions such as smallpox and polio. Mass immunization relies on cold-chain availability: vaccines have to be stored at precise temperatures from manufacturing through inoculation. Solar-powered refrigerators and insulated containers are lifelines for remote locations. Door-to-door interactions by community health workers educate households regarding dosage routines and myths. Vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation is also a major obstacle to herd immunity. Campaigns of public education-capitalizing on radio, social media, and school initiatives-seek to revive public faith in science. Preserving accessibility and communication in an open nature is crucial in order to secure public health.

Vaccine hesitancy is primarily caused by: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Lack of refrigerators 

  2. BOption (b)

    Misinformation

  3. COption (c)

    Cold-chain failures

  4. DOption (d)

    Overproduction 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Misinformation

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • Vaccine hesitancy refers to the reluctance or refusal to vaccinate despite availability of vaccines. (टीका लेने में हिचकिचाहट)
  • According to the passage, a major reason for vaccine hesitancy is misinformation spread among the public. (जनता में फैली गलत जानकारी)
  • Cold-chain failures or lack of refrigerators affect vaccine storage but are not the primary reason for hesitancy. (ठंडे भंडारण की असफलताएँ)
  • Overproduction of vaccines does not influence people's willingness to vaccinate. (टीकों का अधिक उत्पादन)

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Lack of refrigerators (रेफ्रिजरेटर की कमी) – Impacts vaccine storage in remote areas but does not directly cause hesitancy.
  • Option 3: Cold-chain failures (ठंडे भंडारण की असफलताएँ) – A logistical issue affecting vaccine efficacy, not public reluctance.
  • Option 4: Overproduction (अधिक उत्पादन) – Producing more vaccines than needed does not influence people's willingness to get vaccinated.

Question 405

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Universal immunization campaigns have eradicated or controlled fatal conditions such as smallpox and polio. Mass immunization relies on cold-chain availability: vaccines have to be stored at precise temperatures from manufacturing through inoculation. Solar-powered refrigerators and insulated containers are lifelines for remote locations. Door-to-door interactions by community health workers educate households regarding dosage routines and myths. Vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation is also a major obstacle to herd immunity. Campaigns of public education-capitalizing on radio, social media, and school initiatives-seek to revive public faith in science. Preserving accessibility and communication in an open nature is crucial in order to secure public health.

Which strategy is NOT mentioned as part of public-education initiatives? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Radio broadcasts  

  2. BOption (b)

    Social-media influencers 

  3. COption (c)

    School programs 

  4. DOption (d)

    Financial Incentives

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Financial Incentives

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 4.

 

Key Points

  • The passage discusses public-education initiatives aimed at addressing vaccine hesitancy and promoting herd immunity.
  • It mentions radio broadcasts, social media, and school programs as strategies used for public education.
  • There is no mention of providing financial incentives as part of these public-education initiatives.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Radio broadcasts – Mentioned as a medium to disseminate information about vaccination campaigns. (रेडियो प्रसारण)
  • Option 2: Social-media influencers – The passage refers broadly to social media platforms to spread awareness. (सोशल मीडिया)
  • Option 3: School programs – Educational initiatives through schools are cited as a way to reach children and families. (स्कूल कार्यक्रम)

Question 406

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Universal immunization campaigns have eradicated or controlled fatal conditions such as smallpox and polio. Mass immunization relies on cold-chain availability: vaccines have to be stored at precise temperatures from manufacturing through inoculation. Solar-powered refrigerators and insulated containers are lifelines for remote locations. Door-to-door interactions by community health workers educate households regarding dosage routines and myths. Vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation is also a major obstacle to herd immunity. Campaigns of public education-capitalizing on radio, social media, and school initiatives-seek to revive public faith in science. Preserving accessibility and communication in an open nature is crucial in order to secure public health.

The passage suggests that to protect public health, it is essential to: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Eliminate door-to-door visits  

  2. BOption (b)

    Halt solar-powered technology  

  3. COption (c)

    Ensure equitable access and clear communication

  4. DOption (d)

    Focus solely on urban areas 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Ensure equitable access and clear communication

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3.

 

Key Points

  • The passage emphasizes that universal immunization campaigns have been successful due to accessibility (cold-chain logistics, solar-powered refrigerators) and clear communication (door-to-door education, public awareness campaigns).
  • Herd immunity is hindered by vaccine hesitancy, which can be overcome by educating the public through media and community initiatives.
  • Hence, protecting public health requires equitable access to vaccines and transparent, open communication to maintain public trust in science.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Eliminate door-to-door visits – Incorrect; the passage highlights door-to-door interactions as crucial for educating households. (गलत)
  • Option 2: Halt solar-powered technology – Incorrect; solar-powered refrigerators are vital for vaccine storage in remote locations. (गलत)
  • Option 4: Focus solely on urban areas – Incorrect; the passage stresses the need for accessibility in remote locations as well, not just urban areas. (गलत)

Question 407

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Microfinance institutions (MFIS) have become crucial agents for advancing financial inclusion in rural areas. Through extending small loans and savings accounts to people who don't have access to conventional banks, MFIs empower entrepreneurs-most often women-to initiate or scale up microenterprises. In most villages, these loans support poultry farming, handloom weaving, or tiny retailing outlets. MFIs go beyond credit by regularly offering financial education training, teaching borrowers to cope with cash flows and interest charges. Critics warn, however, that excessive interest rates and repayment pressure can result in over-indebtedness. To avoid such risks, some MFIs limit interest rates and spread repayment terms. Research indicates that when complemented by market linkages-such as guaranteed buyers for fruits and vegetables-microfinance can trigger sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction.

The primary function of microfinance institutions, according to the passage, is to:

  1. AOption (a)

    Charge high interest rates to rural borrowers  

  2. BOption (b)

    Provide large corporate loans 

  3. COption (c)

    Offer financial services to those excluded from traditional banking system 

  4. DOption (d)

    Regulate national monetary policy 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Offer financial services to those excluded from traditional banking system 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3.

 

Key Points

  • Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) primarily provide financial services to individuals who are excluded from the traditional banking system, especially in rural areas. (परंपरागत बैंकिंग प्रणाली से बाहर रहने वाले व्यक्तियों को वित्तीय सेवाएँ प्रदान करना)
  • They extend small loans and savings accounts to empower entrepreneurs, often women, to start or expand microenterprises.
  • MFIs also offer financial education to help borrowers manage cash flows and interest charges, promoting financial literacy and inclusion.
  • Thus, the core function is not about charging high interest, providing large corporate loans, or regulating national monetary policy.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Charge high interest rates to rural borrowers (ग्रामीण उधारकर्ताओं से उच्च ब्याज दर वसूलना) – This is a criticism sometimes associated with MFIs, not their primary function.
  • Option 2: Provide large corporate loans (बड़ी कॉर्पोरेट ऋण प्रदान करना) – MFIs focus on microloans, not corporate financing.
  • Option 4: Regulate national monetary policy (राष्ट्रीय मौद्रिक नीति का नियमन करना) – This is the role of central banks, not MFIs.

Question 408

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Microfinance institutions (MFIS) have become crucial agents for advancing financial inclusion in rural areas. Through extending small loans and savings accounts to people who don't have access to conventional banks, MFIs empower entrepreneurs-most often women-to initiate or scale up microenterprises. In most villages, these loans support poultry farming, handloom weaving, or tiny retailing outlets. MFIs go beyond credit by regularly offering financial education training, teaching borrowers to cope with cash flows and interest charges. Critics warn, however, that excessive interest rates and repayment pressure can result in over-indebtedness. To avoid such risks, some MFIs limit interest rates and spread repayment terms. Research indicates that when complemented by market linkages-such as guaranteed buyers for fruits and vegetables-microfinance can trigger sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction.

In the context of the above passage, “microenterprises” most nearly means: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Multinational corporations

  2. BOption (b)

    Small-scale businesses

  3. COption (c)

    Government agencies 

  4. DOption (d)

    Family-owned farms  

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Small-scale businesses

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • The word "microenterprises" refers to very small-scale businesses or entrepreneurial ventures, often initiated with the help of microloans. (सूक्ष्म/लघु व्यवसाय)
  • Example: The microfinance loan helped her start a small tailoring microenterprise in her village.
  • In the passage, microenterprises are described as ventures like poultry farming, handloom weaving, or tiny retailing outlets that are often run by women in rural areas.
  • Hence, the word "microenterprises" most nearly means "Small-scale businesses".

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Multinational corporations (बहुराष्ट्रीय निगम) – Large international companies; does not fit the context of small rural businesses.
  • Option 3: Government agencies (सरकारी एजेंसियां) – Organizations run by the government; unrelated to small entrepreneurial ventures.
  • Option 4: Family-owned farms (पारिवारिक कृषि फार्म) – Specific type of business; too narrow compared to the broader term “microenterprises”.

Question 409

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Microfinance institutions (MFIS) have become crucial agents for advancing financial inclusion in rural areas. Through extending small loans and savings accounts to people who don't have access to conventional banks, MFIs empower entrepreneurs-most often women-to initiate or scale up microenterprises. In most villages, these loans support poultry farming, handloom weaving, or tiny retailing outlets. MFIs go beyond credit by regularly offering financial education training, teaching borrowers to cope with cash flows and interest charges. Critics warn, however, that excessive interest rates and repayment pressure can result in over-indebtedness. To avoid such risks, some MFIs limit interest rates and spread repayment terms. Research indicates that when complemented by market linkages-such as guaranteed buyers for fruits and vegetables-microfinance can trigger sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction.

Which benefit of MFls is mentioned besides lending money? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Granting land titles 

  2. BOption (b)

    Financial literacy training 

  3. COption (c)

    Tax exemptions  

  4. DOption (d)

    Import-export facilitation 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Financial literacy training 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) do more than just provide loans; they also empower borrowers by enhancing their financial knowledge. (वित्तीय साक्षरता प्रशिक्षण)
  • They regularly offer training to borrowers on managing cash flows, understanding interest charges, and handling repayment schedules effectively.
  • Such financial literacy ensures that borrowers make informed decisions and reduce the risk of over-indebtedness.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: Granting land titles (भूमि शीर्षक प्रदान करना) – Not mentioned in the passage as a benefit of MFIs.
  • Option 3: Tax exemptions (कर में छूट) – Not discussed in the context of MFIs in the passage.
  • Option 4: Import-export facilitation (आयात-निर्यात सुविधा) – No reference made to MFIs providing this service.

Question 410

SSC Stenographer 2025• English Language and Comprehension

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

Microfinance institutions (MFIS) have become crucial agents for advancing financial inclusion in rural areas. Through extending small loans and savings accounts to people who don't have access to conventional banks, MFIs empower entrepreneurs-most often women-to initiate or scale up microenterprises. In most villages, these loans support poultry farming, handloom weaving, or tiny retailing outlets. MFIs go beyond credit by regularly offering financial education training, teaching borrowers to cope with cash flows and interest charges. Critics warn, however, that excessive interest rates and repayment pressure can result in over-indebtedness. To avoid such risks, some MFIs limit interest rates and spread repayment terms. Research indicates that when complemented by market linkages-such as guaranteed buyers for fruits and vegetables-microfinance can trigger sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction.

What is a key criticism of microfinance highlighted in the passage?  

  1. AOption (a)

    It fails to reach women borrowers.  

  2. BOption (b)

    It offers only savings accounts.

  3. COption (c)

    high interest and repayment pressure can cause debt.  

  4. DOption (d)

    It mandates market linkages. 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

high interest and repayment pressure can cause debt.  

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3.

 

Key Points

  • Microfinance institutions (MFIs) provide small loans and financial services to people without access to traditional banks.
  • MFIs empower borrowers, especially women, to start or expand microenterprises.
  • Critics highlight a key issue: high interest rates and repayment pressure can lead to over-indebtedness.
  • Some MFIs try to mitigate this by limiting interest rates and extending repayment terms.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "It fails to reach women borrowers" – Incorrect, passage mentions women are often the primary beneficiaries.
  • Option 2: "It offers only savings accounts" – Incorrect, passage states MFIs offer both loans and savings accounts.
  • Option 4: "It mandates market linkages" – Incorrect, market linkages are suggested as beneficial, not mandated.