Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions:
Millets, a group of small-seeded grains, _____(3) for thousands of years in India and other parts of Asia and Africa. Once considered the “poor man’s food,” they are now gaining recognition for their (1) nutritional value and environmental benefits. Rich in fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals, millets are a powerhouse of health, aiding digestion, improving heart health, and helping regulate blood sugar levels.
Unlike rice and wheat, millets require far less water to grow and can thrive in arid and semi-arid regions. This makes them not only a healthy choice but also a (2) sustainable one, particularly important in the face of climate change and depleting water resources.
There are _____(4) varieties of millets, including finger millet (ragi), pearl millet (bajra), and foxtail millet, each with its unique taste and health benefits. These grains can be used in a wide range of dishes from traditional rotis and porridges to modern snacks and desserts.
Despite their benefits, millets had fallen out of favour for decades due to changing food preferences and the dominance of rice and wheat in markets. However, with increasing health awareness _____(5) government campaigns, they are making a comeback on urban menus and in packaged food products.
The word “sustainable” in the passage is closest in meaning to:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer: Able to be maintained over time without harm
Explanation
• In the context of the passage, sustainable refers to practices or resources that can be maintained at a certain level without depleting natural resources or causing severe ecological damage.
• The text highlights that millets require minimal water and adapt well to arid climates amid depleting water resources, which demonstrates environmental sustainability.
• Example: Solar energy is a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels because it does not deplete finite natural resources.