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.
Choose the correct auxiliary verb and main verb: (3)
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer: Have been cultivated
Explanation
• Subject-Verb Agreement: The primary subject is the plural noun Millets (the phrase between commas is merely an appositive describing it). Hence, a plural auxiliary verb (have) is required.
• Voice: Millets do not grow or cultivate themselves; people cultivate them. Therefore, the verb must be in the passive voice (auxiliary + been + V3).
• Tense: The time expression "for thousands of years" indicates an activity that began in the past and continues up to the present, which calls for the Present Perfect Passive form (have been cultivated).
Quick Tip: Ignore the intervening descriptive phrase between commas when determining whether the subject is singular or plural.