Practice Test: Reading Comprehension - 3 | English Language for JAMB PDF Download

Directions: Read the following passage and answer questions that follow.

India's position on the global stage was shaped by its historical context rather than by the grandeur of war. As a distinct entity within the British Empire, India became a founding member of the League of Nations, similar to Australia and Canada. This bestowed upon India a somewhat unique international status well before its independence. When India's interests were at stake during the League's existence, such as trade matters or the situation of Indians abroad, the Indian delegation assertively expressed its independent stance. Some Indian delegates gained recognition for their impartiality and skill in mediating contentious and controversial meetings. These initial experiences paved the way for India's later entry into the United Nations in 1945, once again as a founding member prior to independence. The responsibility of drafting Chapters IX and X of the UN Charter, which address international social and economic cooperation, was entrusted to a group presided over by an Indian. It is important to note, however, that the independent Indian government did not participate in the drafting of the UN Charter, although it accepted the obligations outlined within it. The United Nations was primarily the product of three major powers: the USA, UK, and Russia. Due to India's size, population, resources, and potential, it held the weight of a medium power in the functioning of the United Nations. Additionally, India's early liberation from imperialist domination through non-violent means bestowed upon it a moral obligation to advocate for the independence of nations still under colonial rule, both within and outside the UN. India served on the Security Council for 10 years or 5 terms, on the Trusteeship Council for 12 years or 4 terms, and on the Economic and Social Council for 21 years or 7 terms.