In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
The Indian Army, also known as the Bhartiya Thal Sena, is the armed forces' (1)____________ component. It grew from the East India Company's military forces, eventually (2)__________ the British Indian Army and, after independence, the Indian Army. It is regarded as the world's second-largest active army. The Indian Army's purpose is to ensure national (3)__________ and preserve India's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and harmony against external (4)____________ and intimidation. It also entails offering humanitarian assistance and support to the (5)_________ public during natural catastrophes and unforeseen times.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.