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SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 90

SSC MTS - 23/10/2024 - (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) • English • Q90

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In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each number.

How environmental problems ____1_____ different groups is a function of social inequality. Social status and power determine the _______2____ to which people can insulate themselves from environmental crises or overcome them. In some cases, their ‘solutions’ may actually worsen environmental disparities. In Kutch, Gujarat, where water is scarce, richer farmers have ____3____ in deep bore tubewells to tap groundwater to irrigate their fields and grow cash crops. When the rains fail, the earthen wells of the poorer villagers run dry and they do not even have water to drink. At such times, the moist green fields of the rich farmers seem to mock them. Certain environmental concerns sometimes appear to be universal concerns, not particular to ____4_____ social groups. For instance, ______5_______ air pollution or protecting biodiversity seems to be in the public interest. A sociological analysis shows, however, that how public priorities are set and how they are pursued may not be universally beneficial.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. Reducing.

Context: The sentence is: “For instance, (5) ______ air pollution or protecting biodiversity seems to be in the public interest.”
Here, the blank should indicate an action taken to improve the situation, not the problem itself. Since protecting biodiversity and air quality are positive interventions, the word must reflect reducing harm or pollution.

Meaning of the words:

  • Manipulating – controlling or influencing, irrelevant in this context.

  • Increasing – implies making the problem worse, which contradicts the context of public interest.

  • Abdicating – giving up responsibility, clearly inappropriate.

  • Reducing – means decreasing the level of pollution or threat, which aligns perfectly with promoting public interest.

Correct word: Reducing

Final Sentence: For instance, reducing air pollution or protecting biodiversity seems to be in the public interest.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.