Aeon Based RC- 10 | Verbal Ability (VA) & Reading Comprehension (RC) - CAT PDF Download

In India, street dogs, or as they are sometimes known, free-living dogs, present a stark contrast to the Western concept of pet ownership. These dogs, unbound by human ownership, live lives that are arguably more in tune with their natural instincts. They sleep, socialize, and eat according to their own rhythms, as long as they can find food. This independence challenges the Western notion of dogs as belonging to specific breeds or being under human command.

The history of street dogs in India is deeply intertwined with colonial attitudes. During British rule, street dogs were labeled as 'pariahs', a term with casteist connotations, and were often subjected to violence and culling. This colonial legacy influenced the perception of street dogs as dangerous and unsightly, leading to practices like impoundment and slaughter.

However, the reality of street dogs in India is more nuanced. They are a part of the everyday life of many communities, where they often form symbiotic relationships with humans. Despite challenges like finding food and shelter, and the risk of human-induced harm, these dogs maintain a level of autonomy not seen in their Western counterparts.

In contemporary India, the legal and societal attitudes towards street dogs have evolved. The Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules of 2001 marked a significant shift, making it illegal to kill street dogs and promoting neutering and vaccination instead. This change reflects a growing recognition of the rights of street dogs to coexist in urban spaces.

The existence of street dogs in India raises important questions about our relationship with animals in the Anthropocene. It challenges us to reconsider our attitudes towards wildlife and the concept of cohabitation with other species. Learning to live with street dogs might offer valuable lessons in coexisting with other animals, both in urban environments and in the wider natural world.
Q1: What is the primary contrast drawn between street dogs in India and pets in the West?
(a) Street dogs have a higher survival rate.
(b) Street dogs live more according to their natural instincts.
(c) Pets in the West are more prone to diseases.
(d) Pets in the West have better access to food.

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Q2: How did British colonialism impact the perception of street dogs in India?
(a) It led to the introduction of Western dog breeds.
(b) It resulted in the widespread adoption of street dogs.
(c) It influenced the negative view and mistreatment of street dogs.
(d) It improved the living conditions of street dogs.

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Q3: What legal change in 2001 significantly altered the treatment of street dogs in India?
(a) The introduction of the Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules.
(b) The ban on importing foreign dog breeds.
(c) The establishment of street dog shelters.
(d) The implementation of a nationwide dog vaccination program.

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Q4: According to the passage, what challenge do street dogs in India face?
(a) They are often neglected by local communities.
(b) They struggle with finding food and shelter.
(c) They are frequently stolen for pet trade.
(d) They are forced into dog fights.

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Q5: What does the author imply about the relationship between humans and street dogs in India?
(a) It is primarily antagonistic.
(b) It varies and can be symbiotic.
(c) It is governed by strict laws.
(d) It is non-existent in most areas.

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Q6: What broader lesson does the author suggest can be learned from the coexistence of humans and street dogs in India?
(a) The importance of animal rights activism.
(b) The need for more stringent animal control policies.
(c) Insights into cohabiting with other wildlife species.
(d) The benefits of adopting street dogs.

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