Reading Comprehension (41-50) | CSAT Preparation - UPSC PDF Download

Directions: Read the following passages and answer the items that follow each passage. Your answers to these items should be based on the passages only.

Passage - 41
Food consumption patterns have changed substantially in India over the past few decades. This has resulted in the disappearance of many nutritious foods such as millets. While food grain production has increased over five times since independence, it has not sufficiently addressed the issue of malnutrition. For long, the agriculture sector focused on increasing food production particularly staples, which led to lower production and consumption of indigenous traditional corps/grains, fruits and other vegetables, impacting food and nutrition security in the process. Further, intensive, monoculture agriculture practices can perpetuate the food and nutrition security problem by degrading the quality of land, water and food derived through them. (UPSC CSAT 2023)

Q1: Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. To implement the Sustainable Development Goals and to achieve zero-hunger goal, monoculture agriculture practices are inevitable even if they do not address malnutrition.
2. Dependence on a few crops has negative consequences for human health and the ecosystem.
3. Government policies regarding food planning need to incorporate nutritional security.
4. For the present monoculture agriculture practices, farmers receive subsidies in various ways and government offers remunerative prices for grains and therefore they do not tend to consider crop diversity.
Which of the above assumptions are valid?
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans: (b)
Sol: Statement 1 is incorrect: The passage neither promotes monoculture nor refers to it as inevitable. In fact, it makes a case against it in the line, “Further, intensive, monoculture agriculture practices can perpetuate the food and nutrition security problem”
Statement 2 is correct: The passage makes many indications that dependence on a few crops has negative consequences for human health and the ecosystem. This is evidenced by the lines,  “disappearance of many nutritious foods such as millets.” and “For long, the agriculture sector focused on increasing food production, particularly staples, which led to lower production and consumption of indigenous traditional crops/grains, fruits and other vegetables, impacting food and nutrition security in the process. Further, intensive, monoculture agriculture practices can perpetuate the food and nutrition security problem by degrading the quality of land, water and food derived through them.”
Statement 3 is correct: The passage mentions, “disappearance of many nutritious foods such as millets”, “food grain production has increased over five times since independence, it has not sufficiently addressed the issue of malnutrition”, “For long, the agriculture sector focused on increasing food production particularly staples….impacting food and nutrition security in the process. Further, intensive, monoculture agriculture practices can perpetuate the food and nutrition security problem…”. This makes a strong case for the government to incorporate nutritional security in its policies regarding food planning.
Statement 4 is incorrect: While this statement might be true in its own right, the passage does not mention anything about subsidies or any particular reason(s) behind monoculture.

Passage - 42
Many people are not eating the right food. For some, it is simply a decision to stick with food they enjoy but which is not too healthy. This is leading to an increase in non-communicable diseases. This in turn leads to major burden on our health-care systems that have the potential to derail the economic progress which is essential for the poor to improve their lives. For others, it is about limited access to nutritious food or a lack of affordability, leading to monotonous diets that do not provide the daily nutrients for them to develop fully. Part of the reason nutrition is under threat worldwide is that our food systems are not properly responding to nutritional needs. Somewhere along that long road from farm to fork, there are serious detours taking place. (UPSC CSAT 2023)

Q1: Which one of the following statements best reflects the crux of the passage?
(a) The scheme of Universal Basic Income should be implemented worldwide as a way of poverty alleviation.
(b) We must place food-based nutrition at the centre of our policy debate.
(c) Nutritional status of food should be improved by creating appropriate genetically modified crops.
(d) Using modern food processing technologies, we must fortify food items with required nutrient elements.
Ans: (b)
Sol: Option (a) is incorrect: This option does not reflect the core of the passage. The passage discusses the problems surrounding food choices and accessibility, as well as their impact on health and economic progress. Universal Basic Income as a solution or even as a concept is not mentioned.
Option (b) is correct: This Option appears to be the most accurate reflection of the crux of the passage. The passage discusses issues with food consumption, accessibility, and their effects on health and economic progress. This suggests that placing food-based nutrition at the centre of policy debates could address these interconnected problems.
Option (c) is incorrect: Although this could be one potential solution to the problems outlined in the passage, the passage itself does not discuss genetically modified crops. Thus, this option is not the most accurate reflection of the passage's main point.
Option (d) is incorrect: This option, like (c), presents a potential solution to the issue at hand. However, the passage does not specifically discuss fortifying foods or using modern food processing technologies, making it a less accurate reflection of the passage's main point.

Passage - 43
We often hear about conflicts among different States in India over river waters. Of the 20 major river systems, 14 are already water-stressed;75% of the population lives in water-stressed regions, a third of whom live in water-scare areas. Climate change, the demands of rising population and the need for agriculture to keep pace, and increased rate of urbanization and industralization will exacerbate water stress. According to the Constitution of India, water is a State subject and not that of the Union, except for regulation of inter-State rivers. Key to ensuring balance between competing demands of various stakeholders is a basin-based approach to allocate water amongst constituent regions and States. Allocating fair share of water to them requires assessments based on objective criteria, such as specificities of the river basin, size of dependent population, existing water use and demand, efficiency of use, projected future use, etc. while ensuring the environmental needs of the river and aquifers. (UPSC CSAT 2023)

Q1: Which one of the following statements best reflects the most rational, practical and immediate action required to ensure fair and equitable allocation of water to different stakeholders?
(a) A national, pragmatic, legal and policy framework for water allocation should be made.
(b) All river systems of the country should be linked and huge aquifers created.
(c) Water channels between regions of water surplus and regions of water deficit should be created.
(d) To mitigate water crisis, water demand of sectors such as agriculture and industry should be reduced.
Ans: (a)
Sol: Option (a) is correct: This is a plausible solution as it aligns with the mention of the need for balance and objective criteria for water allocation. A comprehensive framework would presumably take these factors into account, and since water regulation for inter-State rivers is a Union matter, it is reasonable to propose a national policy.
Option (b) is incorrect: The passage does not explicitly mention linking all river systems or creating aquifers. While this might be a long-term solution, it doesn't seem to be the necessary immediate and practical action as the passage suggests.
Option (c) is incorrect: Similar to option (b), this is not mentioned in the passage and may not address the complexities involved in the issue, such as the need for a basin-based approach and specific criteria for water allocation.
Option (d) is incorrect: While reducing water demand could potentially alleviate water stress, the passage doesn't suggest this as a solution. Rather, it highlights the need for a balanced approach considering several factors, including existing water use and demand, use efficiency, and projected future use.

Passage - 44
Democracy, a cornerstone of political systems, thrives when accompanied by political maturity among citizens. A politically mature populace actively engages in informed discourse, values the diversity of opinion, and understands the nuances of governance. However, challenges arise when political maturity falters, leading to conflicts within democratic frameworks. Misinformation, polarization, and intolerance can jeopardize the democratic spirit, fuelling internal strife. Striking a balance between individual rights and collective responsibility becomes paramount for the sustenance of a robust democracy. Political maturity acts as a stabilizing force, fostering constructive dialogue and conflict resolution, ensuring that democratic ideals withstand internal tensions and external pressures, and allowing nations to navigate challenges.

Q1: Which one of the following is best implied by the passage?
(a) Political maturity plays a vital role in deciding the strength of a democratic nation.
(b) A mature democracy consists of a biologically mature population.
(c) Democracy is ‘for the people,’ so, individual rights are more important than collective responsibility.
(d) Democracy is not only about dialogue and diversity, but also about political maturity.
Ans: (a)
Sol: Option (a) is correct: The option captures the main theme of the passage, which is the role of political maturity in strengthening democracy. It is visible in the lines “Democracy, a cornerstone of political systems, thrives when accompanied by political maturity among citizens … Political maturity acts as a stabilizing force, fostering constructive dialogue and conflict resolution, ensuring that democratic ideals withstand internal tensions and external pressures, and allowing nations to navigate challenges.” These lines reflect that political maturity plays an important role in strengthening democracy. Hence, this is the correct and best answer.
Option (b) is incorrect: The option is not correct because it states that a mature democracy consists of a “biologically mature population” instead of saying a “politically mature population”. The central theme of the passage focusses upon the role of political maturity in making democracy stronger. So, this option is not the correct answer.
Option (c) is incorrect: Refer to the lines “Striking a balance between individual rights and collective responsibility becomes paramount for the sustenance of a robust democracy.” The author clearly talks about balancing individual rights and collective responsibility. A democracy might become chaotic if there is no balance between individual rights and collective responsibility.  Hence, this option is not the correct answer.
Option (d) is incorrect: The central theme of the passage is political maturity and its significance for strengthening democracy. However, the option talks about the elements of democracy, which is neither the main idea of the passage, nor is covered in the passage per se. Hence, this answer option is incorrect.

Passage - 45
The rapid evolution of technology has enabled the creation and dissemination of misinformation at an unprecedented scale. Technological ethics grapples with the moral implications of advancements in information dissemination, particularly in the context of the pervasive issue of fake news. Ethical considerations in this realm involve questions of responsibility, accountability, and the potential harm caused by the spread of false information. Fake news, often designed to manipulate public opinion, can have profound societal consequences, eroding trust in information sources and contributing to a polarized discourse. Striking a balance between freedom of expression and the prevention of harm is a complex challenge. Technological ethics should guide the development and implementation of tools and policies that promote transparency, factchecking, and responsible information sharing, fostering an ethical digital landscape that prioritizes truth and integrity.

Q1: What is the main idea that we can infer from the passage?
(a) Ethical frameworks have explicitly recognized and categorized the responsibilities of technology platforms, content creators and consumers.
(b) Technological ethics may provide a framework to discern fact from fiction in the growing digital era.
(c) With a robust surveillance system in place, dissemination of false information online becomes difficult.
(d) The spread of fake news erodes trust in reliable information sources.
Ans: (b)
Sol: Option (a) is incorrect: The passage nowhere specifies or mentions about the responsibilities of technology platforms, content creators and consumers separately. Hence, this is not the correct inference.
Option (b) is correct: The given option is based on the lines: “Technological ethics should guide the development and implementation of tools and policies that promote transparency, fact-checking, and responsible information sharing, fostering an ethical digital landscape that prioritizes truth and integrity.” These lines show that technological ethics are critical for handling fake news because ethics promote transparency, truth and integrity. Hence, this option is correct.
Option (c) is incorrect: The passage does not mention anything about a surveillance system. Moreover, this option misses out the main theme of the passage, which is technological ethics. Hence, this is not the correct inference.
Option (d) is incorrect: Though true, this statement misses out the main theme of the passage, which is technological ethics. Fake news is an important aspect covered in the passage, but so is technological ethics.

Passage - 46 
In an era dominated by technology, the pursuit of a simple life is both elusive and challenging. While technology promises convenience, it simultaneously introduces complexities into our daily existence. The relentless influx of information, the rapid pace of innovation, and the demand for constant connectivity contribute to a more intricate and demanding lifestyle. Striking a balance between embracing technological advancements and seeking simplicity requires conscious choices. Simplicity in the digital age involves mindful tech use, fostering genuine human connections, and prioritizing well-being over the constant pursuit of more features. Navigating this delicate equilibrium allows individuals to harness the benefits of technology without succumbing to the overwhelming complexities it can introduce in the quest for a simpler life.

Q1: Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. Because of technology, it is not possible to live a simple life anymore.
2. Overuse of technology can make human life complex.
Which of the above assumptions is/are invalid?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (a)
Sol: Assumption 1 is incorrect: The given statement is not correct because it is an extreme one. The passage does not imply that it is not possible to live a simple life. The line “In an era dominated by technology, the pursuit of a simple life is both elusive and challenging (but not impossible)”. So, this is an incorrect assumption.
Assumption 2 is correct: The given assumption is based on the lines “Simplicity in the digital age involves mindful tech use, fostering genuine human connections, … benefits of technology without succumbing to the overwhelming complexities it can introduce in the quest for a simpler life.” Hence, this assumption is correct. 

Passage - 47
The election moral code of conduct in India is designed to ensure fair, transparent, and ethical conduct during elections, covering various aspects such as campaigning, speeches, and general behaviour. The commitment of political parties and candidates to adhere to ethical standards plays a pivotal role. Instances of violations, including hate speech, misinformation, and divisive rhetoric, challenge the code's efficacy. The sheer scale and complexity of Indian elections further pose challenges to enforcement. The Election Commission, tasked with overseeing elections, plays a crucial role in enforcing the code, but its effectiveness depends on the strength of its regulatory mechanisms, the timely adjudication of complaints, and the impartiality of its actions. Technological advancements and the changing landscape of communication also necessitate regular updates to the code.

Q1: Which of the following is/are the most rational and logical inference/inferences that can be made from the passage?
1. The moral code of conduct should be made legally enforceable to increase its effectiveness.
2. Regular violations of the moral code of conduct reflect the declining trend of the rule of law in political parties.
Select the correct answer from the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (d)
Sol: Inference 1 is incorrect: The passage nowhere mentions that issues or violations of the moral code are happening because of the lack of legal sanctity. The passage is about enforcement and its effectiveness. Also, whether effectiveness will increase by making it legal has not been discussed in the passage. Hence, this inference is not correct.
Inference 2 is incorrect: The passage does not state that moral code is regularly violated, or that this situation is worsening day by day. Moreover, the passage talks about political ethics in the parties and not the rule of law. Rule of law is different from moral code. So, this inference is not correct. 

Passage - 48
Colonial rule in India significantly impacted tribal communities, disrupting their socio-economic structures and traditional ways of life. The imposition of British land policies, revenue systems, and forest regulations marginalized tribals, leading to land alienation and loss of resources. Forced labour, cultural suppression, and economic exploitation further exacerbated their plight. In response to colonial oppression, tribals mounted various forms of resistance. Many engaged in armed uprisings, such as the Santhal Rebellion and the Birsa Munda-led Munda Rebellion, seeking to reclaim their ancestral lands and resist cultural imposition. Additionally, some tribes retreated into remote areas to preserve their distinct identities. The colonial legacy has left a lasting impact on tribal communities, contributing to issues like displacement, poverty, and cultural marginalization, which continue to shape their socioeconomic realities in post-colonial India.

Q1: Which of the following is/are the most rational and logical inference/s that can be made from the passage?
1. It is not possible to overcome the longlasting impacts of colonial legacy on the tribal communities.
2. Not all tribal revolts may have been armed uprisings against the deliberate cultural impositions of the British rule.
Select the correct answer from the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
Sol: Inference 1 is incorrect: The given inference is not correct because of the phrase ‘not possible’. The passage is about how colonial rule impacted tribal societies and how it continues to do so. However, this option states that it is not possible to overcome those impacts. Whether it is possible or not is not discussed in the passage. Hence, this option is not correct because the passage does not state so.
Inference 2 is correct: The given inference is correct because of the line - “Many engaged in armed uprisings, such as the Santhal Rebellion and the Birsa Munda-led Munda Rebellion, seeking to reclaim their ancestral lands and resist cultural imposition.” This line shows that many (probably not all) adopted violent or armed means to resist cultural change. So, this inference is correct. 

Q2: Which of the following is most definitely implied by the above passage?
(a) Despite failure, tribals were the most formidable opposition to British rule in India.
(b) Pre-colonial rule did more damage to the culture of the tribal Indian society than the colonial rule.
(c) British land policies and revenue systems continue to shape the socio-economic realities of Indian society at large.
(d) Despite opposition by tribals, colonial rule devastated the tribal society to a large extent and the hangover is still far from over.
Ans: (d)
Sol: Option (a) is incorrect: The given option is not correct because the passage does not mention tribals to be the ‘most’ formidable opposition. The passage does not compare tribals with any other section in the context of opposing the British. So, this option is not correct.
Option (b) is incorrect: The passage is specific to tribals and mentions the opposition that tribals presented to the British (colonial rule). However, the passage does not cover the aspects of pre-colonial rule. So, this option is beyond the scope of the passage. Option (c) is incorrect: The passage is specific to tribals and not generic to Indian society. However, the option is about Indian society in general. So, this option is not correct.
Option (d) is correct: This option is based on the following line - “In response to colonial oppression, tribals mounted various forms of resistance.” It reflects the opposition aspect. Now, consider the line -“The colonial legacy has left a lasting impact on tribal communities, contributing to issues like displacement, poverty, and cultural marginalization, which continue to shape their socio-economic realities in post-colonial India.” So, the colonial legacy affects the tribals even today with issues like poverty, marginalization etc. Hence, this option is correct.

Passage - 49
The British colonial administration laid the groundwork, introducing parliamentary structures that continue to influence Indian politics. Post-independence, the Constituent Assembly crafted a democratic framework, establishing key political institutions such as the Parliament, judiciary, and executive. Over the years, India's federal structure has evolved, accommodating regional diversity through the establishment of State Legislative Assemblies. Constitutional amendments and electoral reforms have aimed at enhancing representation and inclusivity. The evolution of political institutions in India is an ongoing narrative, navigating complexities to strengthen democratic foundations and foster inclusive governance in a diverse and dynamic nation.

Q1: Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:
1. Parliamentary structure is the only way through which British colonialism has influenced Indian politics.
2. Indian society, today, reflects the evolution of its political institutions.
Which of the above assumptions is/are valid?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (d)
Sol: Assumption 1 is incorrect: The passage does mention the influence of British colonialism on Indian political institutions as reflected in the lines “The British colonial administration laid the groundwork, introducing parliamentary structures that continue to influence Indian politics.” ‘Parliamentary structures’ is one such example. However, there could be many other channels of influence.  Therefore, it would be incorrect to say that Parliamentary structure is the ‘only’ way through which British colonialism has influenced Indian politics.
Assumption 2 is incorrect: The evolution as mentioned in the passage is because of the changing demands of the society as seen in the line “Over the years, India's federal structure has evolved, accommodating regional diversity through the establishment of State Legislative Assemblies.” Therefore, evolution of political institutions reflects changing societal demands and not vice versa as mentioned in the option. So, this assumption is not correct. 

Q2: Which of the following statements best reflects the crux of the passage?
(a) From the colonial era to the present day, India's political landscape has witnessed a dynamic metamorphosis.
(b) The evolution of political institutions comes with its own set of complexities and limitations.
(c) Political parties in India have transformed to accommodate coalition partners and regional demands.
(d) Since independence, political institutions have evolved, but not Indian politics.
Ans: (a)
Sol: Option (a) is correct: The given option is based on the following lines “The British colonial administration … continue to influence Indian politics. … Over the years, India's federal structure has evolved, accommodating regional diversity through the establishment of State Legislative Assemblies. Constitutional amendments and electoral reforms have aimed at enhancing representation and inclusivity.” These lines depict the essence of the passage - transformation has happened in the political institutions and political landscape of the country from the colonial era to the present day. So, this best reflects the crux of the passage.
Option (b) is incorrect: The given statement is generic and not as per the information provided in the passage. The passage mentions about evolution of political institutions, but the associated complexities and limitations, if any, are not covered in the passage. Also, the main theme of the passage is to showcase the evolution of political institutions. Therefore, this option is not the best crux of the passage.
Option (c) is incorrect: The given passage is not about political parties and coalition partners, but the overall political landscape of the country at large. Therefore, this option is not the best crux.
Option (d) is incorrect: The passage is primarily about the evolution of Indian political institutions. Also, there is nothing related to the evolution of Indian politics except the influence of the British administration over it. We cannot conclusively say that Indian politics has not evolved since independence. So, this is not the best crux of the passage.

Passage - 50
The ethical hacker, or "white hat," employs the same techniques as malicious hackers but with the goal of identifying and fortifying security weaknesses rather than exploiting them. This paradoxical role mirrors the dichotomy within cybersecurity – the battle between intrusion and defence, attack, and protection. As technology advances, the need for ethical hacking becomes increasingly paramount to pre-emptively address vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Organizations enlist ethical hackers to conduct penetration testing and vulnerability assessments, ensuring that systems are robust against evolving threats. This dichotomy is essential in maintaining the delicate balance between innovation and security in an everevolving digital landscape.

Q1: Which of the following is/are the most rational and logical inference/inferences that can be made from the passage?
1. The state must support organizations and ethical hackers to build infrastructure for cybersecurity, especially in this era of cross border cyber-attacks.
2. An ethical hacker has the potential to become a malicious hacker. Select the correct answer from the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
Sol: Inference 1 is incorrect: The context of the state and what it should do for cybersecurity is not covered in the passage. Therefore, this inference is beyond the scope of the passage.
Inference 2 is correct: The given inference is based on the lines “The ethical hacker, or "white hat," employs the same techniques as malicious hackers but with the goal of identifying and fortifying security weaknesses rather than exploiting them.” These lines show that ethical hackers know everything that malicious hackers know, but they use it for noble objectives. So, essentially, they have the potential to become malicious hackers. Hence, this inference is correct.