Reading Comprehension - 2 | English for CLAT PDF Download

Read the passage given below and answer the questions:

Indian literature, encompassing a vibrant tapestry of regional languages and English, is undergoing a global renaissance, reflecting the nation’s cultural diversity and intellectual depth. In 2025, the industry generated ₹15,000 crore, with 500,000 books published annually, 60% in regional languages such as Tamil, Bengali, Marathi, and Malayalam. Renowned authors like Arundhati Roy, alongside regional voices like Perumal Murugan and Bama, have reached 100 million readers worldwide, with their works translated into 50 languages, fostering cross-cultural dialogue. The 2024 Jaipur Literature Festival, a global literary beacon, attracted 500,000 attendees, boosting Rajasthan’s tourism revenue by ₹1,000 crore and showcasing 200 authors from 30 countries. Digital platforms like Amazon Kindle and Audible hosted 200,000 Indian titles, contributing ₹3,000 crore in sales, with 40% from international markets, driven by audiobooks and e-books.

Government initiatives, including ₹500 crore in grants under the Sahitya Akademi, supported 10,000 writers, though 40% faced bureaucratic delays, hindering timely disbursements. Emerging writers, particularly from marginalized communities, gained visibility through 50 literary awards, distributing ₹100 crore annually. However, challenges persist: low royalties, averaging ₹10,000 per book, discourage new talent, and piracy, costing ₹2,000 crore yearly, erodes profits. Critics argue that commercialization, fueled by multinational publishers, prioritizes bestsellers, marginalizing 70% of regional authors who focus on local narratives. Supporters counter that global recognition, with three Indians shortlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize and two winning Commonwealth Literary Awards, elevates India’s literary stature. Rural libraries, serving 50% of India’s 600 million readers, face a shortage of 200,000 books annually, limiting access in remote areas. Environmental concerns also loom, with 30% of publishing paper sourced unsustainably, contributing to 10% of the industry’s carbon footprint. Efforts to adopt recycled paper, adopted by 20% of publishers, remain nascent.

In 2025, Delhi’s designation as a UNESCO City of Literature underscored India’s global appeal, attracting 1 million literary tourists and generating ₹500 crore. Regional literary festivals, like those in Chennai and Kolkata, drew 300,000 attendees, promoting languages like Telugu and Assamese. Yet, urban-centric initiatives often overshadow rural literary traditions, with 80% of funding allocated to metropolitan centers. Grassroots movements, supported by 5,000 community libraries, aim to bridge this gap, distributing 1 million free books in 2024. Public campaigns, reaching 400 million via social media, advocate for reading, but digital divides exclude 60% of rural readers. India’s literary revival reflects its pluralistic ethos, but equitable support for regional voices, sustainable practices, and inclusive access are critical to sustaining this cultural resurgence.

View Answer  

Ans: B

The passage specifies that three Indians were shortlisted for the 2024 Booker Prize, marking a significant recognition for Indian literature.

Why not A? No National Book Award is mentioned in the passage.

Why not C? The passage mentions a UNESCO literary city designation, not Cultural Heritage status.

Why not D? There is no reference to a Global Digital Publishing Award.

View Answer  

Ans: B

The passage identifies low royalties, averaging ₹10,000 per book, as a key challenge for Indian authors.

Why not A? Royalties are described as low, not excessive.

Why not C? Digital platforms like Kindle host 200,000 titles, indicating their availability.

Why not D? Grants face delays, not overfunding, per the passage.

View Answer  

Ans: B

“Renaissance” means a revival or flourishing, as in the literary boom. “Decline” is the opposite, suggesting a decrease or deterioration.

Why not A? “Revival” is a synonym for renaissance.

Why not C? “Renewal” is similar to renaissance, implying rejuvenation.

Why not D? “Growth” aligns with renaissance, not opposing it.

View Answer  

Ans: C

 The passage notes supporters highlight global awards, like the Booker Prize shortlist, as evidence of Indian literature’s global success.

Why not A? Marginalizing regional authors is a criticism, not a supportive point.

Why not B? The Jaipur Literature Festival boosted tourism by ₹1,000 crore.

Why not D? Piracy is a challenge, not a reason for advocacy.

View Answer  

Ans: C

The passage describes Indian literature as reflecting cultural diversity, with works in regional languages and English reaching global audiences.

Why not A? The passage emphasizes cultural diversity, not its reduction.

Why not B? It reaches 100 million global readers, not limits them.

Why not D? The industry generated ₹15,000 crore, indicating strong sales.