SSC Stenographer 2026 · Exam Replay

English Language & Comprehension — Stenographer Grade C & D 2026

All 11 shifts as they were held: Reasoning and General Awareness as 50-question, 30-minute tests and English as 100 questions in 60 minutes, with +1 / −0.25 marking. Every answer has been checked; where the official key was wrong, or a second option is also right, the question says so.

9 Sep, Shift 1

Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions: Sleep is a vital biological process that restores the body and mind. However, for millions of people worldwide, this natural rhythm is disrupted by sleep disorders. These conditions can range from insomnia, where (4) ____ person struggles to fall or stay asleep, to sleepapnea, a potentially serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Chronic sleep problems (3) ____ have far-reaching consequences. They impair concentration, weaken the immune system, and increase the risk of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and depression. The cumulative effect of poor sleep over time can be as harmful as a poor diet or lack of exercise. Causes of sleep disorders vary (5) ____. Stress, irregular schedules, excessive screen time before bed, and underlying medical conditions are common triggers. Modern lifestyles, with their relentless pace and constant connectivity, have only worsened the problem. Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For some, improving (1)sleep hygiene such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, limiting caffeine, and creating a calm bedtime routine can make a significant difference. In more severe cases, medical intervention or therapy may be necessary. Ultimately, addressing sleep disorders is not just about avoiding fatigue it’s about protecting overall health and ensuring that the body’s (2) restorative processes function as they should.

Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions: Swimming is one of the most popular recreational and competitive activities worldwide, valued for both its fitness benefits and its ability to provide relaxation. Unlike many forms of exercise, swimming is (1) low-impact, making it ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels. The buoyancy of water supports the body, reducing strain on joints while still (3) ____ resistance to build muscle strength and endurance. Beyond its physical advantages, swimming is also a valuable life skill. Knowing how to swim can be (2) “life-saving” in emergencies and helps individuals enjoy other water-based activities such as boating, diving, and surfing. Competitive swimming, on the other hand, demands rigorous training, discipline, and excellent technique. Different strokes freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly engage various muscle groups and require distinct breathing patterns. Regular swimming improves cardiovascular health, increases lung capacity, and promotes overall well-being. It’s also an effective way to reduce stress, as the rhythmic movements and sensation of being in water can have a calming effect on the mind. However, safety is crucial. Swimmers should always be aware of (4) ____ environment, whether in pools, lakes, or the ocean, and follow proper safety guidelines. Learning under supervision (5) ____ using appropriate gear ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

Read the passage and answer the following questions: Popular culture, often called “pop culture,” refers to the trends, ideas, images, and activities that are widely accepted and enjoyed by the general public. It includes music, movies, television shows, fashion, social media trends, and celebrity lifestyles. Pop culture constantly evolves, shaped by changing tastes, technological advances, and global influences. One of the defining features of pop culture is its ability to bring people together. Whether it’s discussing a hit song, binge-watching a new series, or following viral internet challenges, pop culture creates a shared experience among diverse groups. It also plays a key role in shaping opinions, spreading awareness, and influencing behavior, especially among young people. However, pop culture is not without criticism. Some argue that it promotes consumerism, encourages superficial values, and overshadows traditional cultural practices. Despite this, it continues to be a powerful force, reflecting society's hopes, concerns, and identity. Today, social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have made it easier than ever for trends to spread quickly and for individuals to influence pop culture themselves. As a result, pop culture is now more interactive, fast-paced, and global than ever before.

9 Sep, Shift 2

In the given passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage intently and choose the most appropriate option to fill in each blank: Education is usually seen as the pillar of a successful society. It provides people with the necessary information and skills to advance their lives and serve their communities. Apart from studies, education develops critical thinking and (1) ____, making people analyse issues and make sound decisions. One of the difficulties with education today is achieving equal access for everyone. Socioeconomic inequality tends to form obstacles, leaving disadvantaged groups lacking resources. To address this, investment must be made in infrastructure and (2) ____ policies that are focused on inclusivity. Technology has also revolutionized education, and learning has become more accessible with the help of online platforms. This change brings concerns regarding the (3) ____ of typical classroom experiences, which focus on direct interaction and collaboration. Finally, learning is not simply the process of gaining knowledge; it's about the molding of values and instilling a sense of (4) ____. By giving equal weight to academic success and social responsibility, societies can build a future that is both innovative and (5) ____.

In the following question, some of the words in the passage have been left out. Read the passage carefully and choose the correct answer to each question out of the four alternatives and fill in the blanks. Graphic novels have revolutionised modern storytelling by combining the power of words with visual art. Unlike traditional text-only books, they tell a complete story using comic-strip formats, illustrations, and dialogue bubbles. This unique blend makes reading highly engaging and easier to understand, especially for students who find long blocks of text (1) ____. It also helps capture their attention for longer than text-only books do. Graphic novels gained popularity because of their ability to (2) ____ rather than just tell. A single drawing can instantly express deep emotions, set a mysterious mood, or showcase a complex action scene that might otherwise take pages to describe. This dual format activates different parts of the brain simultaneously, improving visual literacy and memory retention. This also helps enhance creative (3) ____ among students reading them and their ability to interpret context very well. Furthermore, graphic novels are not just for children; they tackle serious, mature themes like history, mental health, and social justice. They provide a voice to diverse perspectives, making complex global issues accessible to everyone. By weaving fine art with literature, graphic novels have proven that images can be just as powerful as written words in creating a deep, lasting (4) ____ impact on (5) ____

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: Yann Martel's Life of Pi explores deep ideas concerning survival, faith, and how we construct the realities we tell ourselves. At its core, the story examines how people handle raw, natural struggles for survival, such as when Pi shares a lifeboat with the fearsome Richard Parker after their voyage goes horribly wrong. This experience shows Pi's split self—the sophisticated part of him and his raw survival instincts clashing while he fights to stay alive. Moreover, Martel questions what someone can believe during desperate times. Pi takes comfort by exploring three religions— Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam—to shield himself from hopelessness. In the end, though, Pi plays with the definition of truth. He ends up telling two entirely different versions of his tale and urges the reader to ponder which is more truthful. So, Martel asserts that we shape our truths based on the accounts we latch onto rather than on cold, hard facts. Such stories help us find purpose in our lives and make sense of everything that happens to us.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: Gustave Flaubert, in his novel Madame Bovary, exposes the fate of his female protagonist. Emma-the fictional character of Flaubert was constructed around a feminist centre to expose the author's viewpoint on the role and position of French women in nineteenth-century society. Since childhood, Emma had been reading books; she used to develop her intellectual capacity so that, after her marriage, this dimension would not be altered. Emma learned the world from books because she was very constrained by the patriarchal system. She was an orphan, so when she chose her peace of mind by taking refuge in reading novels, she was safer from the unkind world. Due to her unhappy married life, she dreamt of the life she read about in her books. Instead of the traditional, boring routine she was supposed to follow, she wanted more from life. Emma wanted someone she could talk to, and with whom she could share her intellectual knowledge in some way; she wanted to know more, read more and talk more. She was unable to get used to the idea of staying at the same stage; she wanted to change, to develop, to be a better person.

10 Sep, Shift 1

In the given passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage intently and choose the most appropriate option to fill in each blank: In a time characterized by deep ideological divides and epistemic uncertainty, the role of intellectuals has become increasingly (1) ____. "Not anymore" confined to the ivory towers of academia, public thinkers are now thrust into digital arenas, where their ideas are subjected to the volatile currents of public sentiment and algorithmic amplification. This (2) ____ from cloistered contemplation to performative intellectualism has raised concerns about the erosion of nuanced debate in favor of ideological branding. The commodification of knowledge production, particularly within neoliberal structures, has reoriented scholarship toward metrics of visibility rather than depth. Consequently, the pursuit of truth is often (3) ____ by the need for marketability, leaving complex ideas diluted to conform to audience expectations. Amid this shift, academic institutions themselves have become entangled in bureaucratic inertia, frequently adopting managerial logics that prioritize efficiency over (4) ____. To counter this drift, there must be a recommitment to critical inquiry as a mode of civic responsibility. Intellectual labor must resist assimilation into spectacle and instead cultivate spaces for deliberation that are both inclusive and rigorous. Only by embracing such an ethic of care can the academy preserve its (5) ____ in shaping public reason.

Fill numbered blank with the most appropriate word to complete the passage. Digital India Land Records Modernisation Programme (DILRMP): This programme seeks to unify land records across India through digitisation, thereby reducing disputes and improving transparency in land transactions. Integration of registration and mutation processes allows real-time updates. Use of GIS mapping ensures accuracy in boundaries and land use records. States are adopting unique land parcel identification numbers. Linking records with Aadhaar enhances authentication but raises privacy and data security concerns. The system also enables easier access to credit, as clear titles are essential for asset-based lending. Implementing blockchain technology can prevent tampering of (1) ____. Training local officials in IT skills is crucial to manage (2) ____ systems. Interlinking data with agricultural databases will assist in targeted (3) ____ delivery. DILRMP aims to reduce litigation through greater (4) ____. Ultimately, digitised systems will support efficient (5) ____ management in rural and urban areas.

Read the passage and answer the following question: In today’s digital world, social media platforms have become an inseparable part of daily life for millions of people. While these platforms help people stay connected, share information, and express their opinions, they also raise serious concerns about data privacy. Every time a user uploads photos, shares posts, or likes content, they leave behind a digital footprint. Social media companies collect this data to show targeted advertisements and improve user experience. However, this information can also be misused if it falls into the wrong hands or if companies fail to protect it properly. Recent cases of data breaches have made people more aware of how vulnerable their personal information can be online. Experts suggest that users should read privacy policies, use strong passwords, and limit the amount of personal information they share on these platforms. Maintaining data privacy is crucial to ensure that social media remains a safe space for everyone.

Read the passage and answer the following question: India and the United Kingdom have shared a strong economic relationship for decades. In recent years, both countries have been working towards finalising a comprehensive trade agreement to boost economic growth and cooperation. This proposed trade deal aims to reduce tariffs, encourage investments, and create new opportunities for businesses in sectors like technology, education, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Negotiations for the agreement have not always been easy. Issues like market access, labour mobility, and regulatory standards have led to lengthy discussions. However, leaders from both sides believe that a fair and balanced trade agreement will benefit millions by generating employment, increasing exports, and strengthening diplomatic ties. Experts say that if successful, the India-UK trade agreement could become a model for future partnerships with other nations. It could help India expand its global reach and attract more foreign investors, while the UK could gain access to India’s vast market, which is one of the fastest-growing in the world.

10 Sep, Shift 2

In the given passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage intently and choose the most appropriate option to fill in each blank: A plethora of cognitive and affective factors shape the intricate process of human decision-making. Even though we often believe that our choices are rationalized entirely, studies have shown that heuristics—or implicit bias and mental shortcuts—play a significant role. For example, the (1) ____ effect leads people to put great weight on the first bit of information they gather, even if it is irrelevant. This can mislead judgment and result in faulty conclusions. Another usual bias is (2) ____, in which individuals search for information that validates their current assumptions while overlooking opposing evidence. This trend perpetuates stereotypes and might inhibit critical thinking. Emotional states also influence choices; an anxious person might become more cautious, while someone who is euphoric might take (3) ____ risks. In addition, social pressures must not be ignored. The need to follow group norms, referred to as (4) ____, can cause people to make decisions they would not otherwise make. This is particularly clear in high-stress situations such as corporate boardrooms or political campaigns. Knowing these psychological processes is critical to enhancing decision-making. Through increased awareness of our own biases and the ability to challenge our assumptions, we can make more (5) ____ decisions that balance logic with empathy.

Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions: Millets, a group of small-seeded grains, (3) ____ for thousands of years in India and other parts of Asia and Africa. Once considered the “poor man’s food,” they are now gaining recognition for their (1) nutritional value and environmental benefits. Rich in fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals, millets are a powerhouse of health, aiding digestion, improving heart health, and helping regulate blood sugar levels. Unlike rice and wheat, millets require far less water to grow and can thrive in arid and semi-arid regions. This makes them not only a healthy choice but also a (2) sustainable one, particularly important in the face of climate change and depleting water resources. There are (4) ____ varieties of millets, including finger millet (ragi), pearl millet (bajra), and foxtail millet, each with its unique taste and health benefits. These grains can be used in a wide range of dishes from traditional rotis and porridges to modern snacks and desserts. Despite their benefits, millets had fallen out of favour for decades due to changing food preferences and the dominance of rice and wheat in markets. However, with increasing health awareness (5) ____ government campaigns, they are making a comeback on urban menus and in packaged food products.

The theory of evolution, first systematically articulated by Charles Darwin, provides a comprehensive explanation for how species gradually change and diversify over time through the process of natural selection. Organisms possessing traits that are better adapted to their specific environments are more likely to survive, reproduce successfully and pass these advantageous traits on to subsequent generations. Over extended periods, minor variations accumulate, leading to remarkable adaptations and the emergence of entirely new species. Extensive evidence supporting evolutionary theory comes from the fossil record, comparative anatomy and modern genetic studies. Evolutionary principles illuminate the vast diversity of life, the intricate relationships among organisms and the development of complex biological traits. Although initially controversial, the concept of evolution is now widely accepted within the scientific community and serves as a foundational framework in biology, medicine and ecology. Understanding evolution enables humans to fully appreciate the profound interconnectedness of life and the natural mechanisms driving ongoing biological change.

Time management is an essential skill in both academic and professional life. People who manage their time effectively are better able to balance responsibilities, meet deadlines and reduce stress. Instead of reacting to tasks at the last minute, effective planners set priorities and create realistic schedules. This approach allows them to focus on important goals without feeling overwhelmed. Poor time management, on the other hand, often leads to missed deadlines, rushed work and frustration. Technology can either help or hinder time management. Digital calendars and task-management apps can improve organization, but constant notifications may distract users from their priorities. Developing good time-management habits requires self-discipline and regular reflection. When individuals learn to control how they spend their time, they gain greater productivity and a stronger sense of control over their daily lives.

10 Sep, Shift 3

Read the following passage and answer the questions based on it: To reduce Kalamkari to “fabric painting” is to mistake the surface for the story. What appears today as an artisan’s motif was, at one time, a traveling archive of storytelling, myth, faith, and rebellion—etched in dye, not ink. The word “Kalamkari” literally means “pen work,” derived from the Persian kalam (pen) and kari (craftsmanship). Yet its essence lies not in the instrument but in the ritual. Traditionally practiced in Andhra Pradesh and some parts of Tamil Nadu, the art form was once temple-centric, used to narrate episodes from epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana through scrolls, canvas and textiles. These were not merely decorative items but didactic tools in a largely oral culture. Over time, Kalamkari migrated from temple to marketplace, from sacred wall to saree border, shaped by both Islamic and Hindu aesthetic vocabularies. Each region gave it a different grammar—Machilipatnam preferred block-printing, while Srikalahasti developed freehand drawing with a bamboo pen. Ironically, its survival today owes much to global demand and government emporiums, even as many practitioners face economic precarity. Chemical dyes now compete with natural ones; storytelling scrolls give way to mass-produced wall hangings. But within this aesthetic compromise remains a stubborn lineage —lines that still echo the hands of ancestors. Kalamkari is less a static tradition than a palimpsest: erased, rewritten, restored— always negotiating between the sacred and the saleable.

Fill numbered blank with the most appropriate word to complete the passage. Inland Waterways Development: India is promoting inland water transport to decongest roads and railways while reducing transportation costs. The Jal Marg Vikas Project focuses on the National Waterway-1 along the Ganga between Haldia and Varanasi. Modern terminals are being built, and mechanised vessels are encouraged. The project aims to shift a portion of cargo movement from road to river, which is more (1) ____ friendly. Skill development programmes are training local youth as (2) ____ operators. By easing traffic congestion, the project can reduce (3) ____ costs and carbon emissions. The success of this initiative relies on maintaining adequate river (4) ____ for navigation. Ultimately, improving inland waterways can make freight transport more sustainable and (5) ____.

Read the passage and answer the following question: In the modern medical world, robotic surgeries are becoming increasingly common. With the help of advanced technology, surgeons can now perform complex procedures with greater precision and control. Robotic surgical systems allow doctors to make smaller incisions, which often means less pain, minimal blood loss, and faster recovery for patients. Hospitals across the globe are investing in robotic surgery equipment to provide better healthcare services. Although robotic surgeries can be more expensive than traditional methods, many believe the benefits justify the cost. Surgeons also need special training to handle these sophisticated machines effectively. However, there are concerns too. Some critics argue that over-reliance on robotic systems might reduce surgeons’ manual skills over time. Others worry that the high costs may limit access for poorer patients. Despite these challenges, experts agree that robotic surgeries will continue to grow and transform the medical field in the coming years.

In the following question, some of the words in the passage have been left out. Read the passage carefully and choose the correct answer to each question out of the four alternatives and fill in the blanks. Aeroplane mode is a built-in smartphone feature that (1) ____ all cellular, wireless, and Bluetooth signals. When passengers leave their cellular devices active during air travel, these devices continuously scan for network connections at full intensity. This intense scanning emits strong electromagnetic interference that can (2) ____ the aircraft's critical communication and navigation systems. Pilots frequently report hearing a distinct buzzing sound in their headsets. This sound may affect the clarity of communication during (3) ____ flight phases, when pilots rely heavily on instructions from the ground support team. These sounds can mask urgent radio commands from air traffic control. Moreover, cumulative signals from dozens of active devices can compromise the accuracy of flight deck instruments, such as altimeters and radar. While modern aircraft are engineered with advanced (4) ____, the potential for technology to fail under unexpected signal interference remains a reality. Compliance with aeroplane mode is not something to be taken lightly by the passengers. It is a vital safety (5) ____ that ensures pilots maintain a clear, uninterrupted line of communication with ground support, ensuring a safe journey for everyone on board.

11 Sep, Shift 1

In the following question, some of the words in the passage have been left out. Read the passage carefully and choose the correct answer to each question out of the four alternatives and fill in the blanks. Scribes were highly respected, elite intellectuals in ancient Egypt who served as the (1) ____ of the entire civilisation's administration. In a society where the vast majority of people could not read or write, scribes spent years in specialised temple schools mastering hieroglyphs—the complex picture-writing system—and hieratic script, a quicker cursive form used for daily business. It is because of their rare and (2) ____ skills that the scribes held immense social power and were exempt from paying taxes, performing forced labour, or serving in the military. Their daily tasks included recording grain harvests, calculating taxes, writing legal documents, and (3) ____ military victories. They also copied sacred religious spells onto papyrus rolls, which were buried inside tombs to guide the dead. Scribes used wooden (4) ____ holding black and red ink cakes, writing with brushes made from reeds. Ultimately, they were the keepers of history; without their (5) ____ record-keeping, much of our knowledge about ancient Egypt would be entirely lost.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: Jack Finney’s fascinating story, The Third Level, follows Charley, an ordinary thirty-one-year-old clerk who unexpectedly discovers a portal to the past within Grand Central Station. Hurrying home to his wife, Louisa, on a hot summer evening, Charley takes a wrong turn down an unfamiliar, sloping subterranean corridor. Instead of returning to the standard platforms, he emerges onto a mysterious third level. Here, the room is visibly smaller, dim open-flame gaslights flicker, and commuters are dressed in late-nineteenth-century attire. Factual verification occurs when he notices an 1894 edition of The World newspaper that reports on President Cleveland. Seeking a peaceful escape from the intense insecurities, anxieties, and stresses of modern life, Charley attempts to buy two railway tickets to Galesburg, Illinois. However, the ticket clerk rejects his modern currency, warning him that it is not legal tender. Although Charley escapes arrest and later buys vintage bills, he can never locate the entrance to the elusive third level again.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: The Kite Runner is a story of love, faith, loss, betrayal, guilt, and redemption written by the Afghan-American writer Khaled Hosseini and first published in 2003. Though honest, it is a painful story, and that pain stems from a cowardly and cruel act committed in childhood. A hint of the author's own childhood can be studied in his writing. Like Amir, he left Afghanistan as a child and returned only as an adult. The novel is a work of historical fiction and drama; it depicts the political and social landscape of then-contemporary Afghanistan. Themes of betrayal, love, family relations, discrimination, and violence prevail throughout the book. What inspired Hosseini to write this novel is the cruelty of the Taliban inflicted on the people of Afghanistan. Hosseini grew up flying kites in Kabul, but when he heard that the Taliban had banned the activity of flying kites, and that’s how he came up with The Kite Runner. The novel beautifully depicts two different lives that coexist yet are so different from each other. The divide between the high class and the low class, the oppression of the minority community by the majority community. It is a story about “to be good again” and overcoming evil despite adverse circumstances. The idea is to atone for past sins and make the necessary sacrifice to redeem yourself.

11 Sep, Shift 2

Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions: The life of a writer is often romanticized as a journey (3) ____ inspiration, creativity, and quiet reflection. While moments of artistic brilliance do exist, the reality is far more (1) arduous than it appears. Writers spend countless hours drafting, revising, and battling self-doubt. The blank page can be both an open canvas and an intimidating void, demanding discipline as much as imagination. A writer's routine (4) ____ greatly. Some work in the early hours of the morning, when the world is still, while others find their rhythm late at night. Many rely on rituals such as a specific desk, a cup of tea, or a walk in the park to spark their creativity. However, inspiration alone is rarely enough; persistence is the real driving force behind completed works. The profession also comes with emotional highs and lows. The joy of finishing a manuscript or receiving praise from readers is often tempered by the sting of rejection letters or critical reviews. Still, writers persevere, fuelled by the belief that (5) ____ words can inform, entertain, or even change lives. For many, writing is not merely a career but (2) a calling a lifelong pursuit that shapes the way they see and interact with the world. It is a path that demands patience, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the craft.

Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions: Journalism is often called the fourth pillar of democracy, alongside the legislature, executive, and judiciary. Its primary role is to inform the public, (1) scrutinize those in power, and ensure that citizens can make informed decisions. A free and responsible press serves as a watchdog, exposing corruption, amplifying marginalized voices, and holding institutions accountable. However, this role is neither simple nor without challenges. Journalists frequently operate under intense pressure, balancing the need for (2) objectivity with the realities of deadlines, editorial bias, and, in some cases, censorship. In countries with restricted press freedom, the pursuit of truth can even put reporters’ lives at risk. The rise of digital media has transformed (3) ____, making information more accessible but also creating new problems like misinformation and “fake news.” In such an environment, the credibility of journalists depends heavily on rigorous fact-checking and ethical reporting standards. A vibrant and independent press (4) ____ essential to the health of any democracy. Without it, power can go unchecked, public debate may wither, and citizens risk being left in the dark. Journalism is not merely a profession; it is a civic responsibility that (5) ____ the very foundation of democratic life.

The study of literature offers profound insights into the richness of human experience, diverse cultures and complex societies. Through immersive engagement with novels, evocative poetry, compelling drama and thought-provoking essays, readers explore a wide range of emotions, intricate ethical dilemmas, social norms and historical contexts. Literature cultivates empathy by enabling individuals to comprehend varied perspectives and lived experiences beyond their own. It nurtures critical thinking, imaginative creativity and reflective analysis, empowering readers to examine human behaviour and the structures of society more deeply. Moreover, studying literature preserves invaluable cultural heritage and enduring traditions, creating meaningful connections between past and present. In educational contexts, literary study enhances advanced communication skills, sophisticated analytical abilities and nuanced moral reasoning. Engaging with carefully crafted literary texts fosters a richer understanding of humanity and its inherent complexities, shaping both individual growth and collective consciousness. By exploring the profound layers of meaning in literature, readers develop intellectual, emotional and ethical awareness that endures across a lifetime.

12 Sep, Shift 1

Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions: South India, known for its tropical climate, (3) ____ heavy rainfall during both the southwest and northeast monsoons. While rain is essential for agriculture and replenishing water sources, excessive downpours can cause widespread disruption. Cities like Chennai, Kochi, and Bengaluru often face flooding, traffic standstills, and an interruption to daily life during intense monsoon spells. One major consequence of heavy rainfall is waterlogging, which damages roads, slows transportation, and increases the risk of accidents. (1) Prolonged wet conditions can also lead to the spread of waterborne diseases. Rural areas face (4) ____ own challenges, with farmlands getting inundated, affecting crops and the livelihoods of farmers. The (2) infrastructure in many urban centres is not adequately prepared to handle sudden and intense showers. Poor drainage systems, encroachment on waterways, and unplanned construction exacerbate the problem. Authorities often resort to emergency measures such as pumping out water, diverting traffic, and issuing weather advisories. While heavy rainfall is a natural part of South India’s climate, climate change is making weather patterns more unpredictable. This has led to both unusually intense rains and prolonged dry spells in some years. Effective urban planning, investment in drainage infrastructure, and community awareness are (5) ____ to mitigating the impact of these events.

Read the cloze passage and answer the following questions: Meditation is an ancient practice that (3) ____ mental clarity, emotional stability, and overall well-being. Rooted in spiritual traditions, it has evolved into a widely recognized method for reducing stress and improving focus. By sitting quietly and focusing on the breath, a mantra, or simply observing thoughts without judgment, individuals can achieve (1) a state of deep tranquillity. Modern science supports the benefits of meditation, linking it to reduced anxiety, lower blood pressure, and enhanced (2) cognitive function. It helps train the mind to stay present, countering the constant distractions of modern life. Many people incorporate it into their daily routines as a way to restore mental energy and improve decision-making. However, developing a consistent meditation habit (4) ____ be challenging. Beginners often struggle with restlessness or impatience, expecting instant results. Like any skill, meditation requires practice, patience, and persistence to experience its full benefits. From Buddhist monasteries to corporate wellness programs, meditation is now practiced in diverse settings. It bridges ancient wisdom with modern lifestyle needs, (5) ____ it a timeless tool for inner peace in a fast-paced world.

Climate change has emerged as one of the most urgent and far-reaching global challenges of the twenty-first century. Rising global temperatures, rapidly melting glaciers and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns profoundly affect delicate ecosystems, agricultural productivity and human societies worldwide. Greenhouse gas emissions, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels, widespread deforestation and intensive industrial activities, are the main drivers of accelerating global warming. These changes contribute to extreme and destructive weather events, including hurricanes, prolonged droughts and catastrophic floods, threatening food security, freshwater availability and the livelihoods of millions. Effectively addressing climate change requires robust international cooperation, widespread adoption of renewable energy, large-scale reforestation and the promotion of sustainable and environmentally responsible lifestyle practices. Public awareness, education and proactive government policies play a critical role in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing societal resilience against environmental hazards. A clear understanding of the science behind climate change, combined with decisive, coordinated action, is essential to protect the planet and secure a sustainable future for coming generations.

12 Sep, Shift 2

In the following question, some of the words in the passage have been left out. Read the passage carefully and choose the correct answer to each question out of the four alternatives and fill in the blanks. The REM (Rapid Eye Movement) cycle is a sleep stage (1) ____ by rapid eye movements, low muscle tone throughout the body, and vivid dreaming. It is a deeply fascinating stage of our sleep that plays a (2) ____ role in brain development and mental health. During a normal night, our body cycles through different sleep stages every ninety minutes. REM sleep is the final stage of this cycle, occurring mostly in the early morning hours. It gets its name because our eyes rapidly dart back and forth behind our closed eyelids, signalling (3) ____ brain activity. To protect us from physically acting out these wild dreams and hurting ourselves, our brain temporarily (4) ____ our major muscles. This temporary lockdown is called muscle atonia. Neurologists view the REM cycle as the brain's ultimate overnight cleanup crew; it (5) ____ our daily emotions, sharpens our memory, and stores everything we learned during the day.

Sowa-Rigpa, literally means the "Knowledge of Healing". It is one of the world's oldest and best-documented traditional medical systems, (1) ____ practised in Tibet and the Himalayan regions of India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Mongolia. Its practitioners are traditionally known as Amchis. Similar to Ayurveda, Sowa-Rigpa is built on the (2) ____ that everything in the universe, including the human body, is made of five basic elements: Earth, Water, Fire, Wind, and Space. In the body, these elements form three primary internal energies that (3) ____ respiration, metabolism, and fluid balance. When these energies are perfectly balanced, a person enjoys good health; an (4) ____ caused by a bad diet, stress, or seasonal changes leads to illness. To diagnose diseases, Amchis use highly (5) ____, non-invasive methods such as checking a patient's pulse and analysing urine.

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: The recent surge in power demand across North India, driven by record-breaking heatwaves, has brought the fragility of our energy infrastructure into sharp focus. As temperatures soar, the grid faces unprecedented pressure, leading to frequent outages that disrupt essential services. While the government has ramped up coal supply and increased solar energy integration, the underlying issue remains a lack of long-term storage solutions. Reliance on traditional grids, which were designed for more temperate climates, is no longer sufficient to handle the modern reality of extreme weather events. True energy security in this era of climate volatility requires more than just generation capacity; it demands a radical overhaul of distribution networks and the adoption of smart-grid technology. Relying solely on short-term fixes—like diverting power from industrial sectors to domestic users—is a precarious strategy that hampers economic growth. Authorities must prioritise investment in large-scale battery storage and decentralised power systems to buffer against inevitable supply shocks. If the grid does not evolve to accommodate these shifts, the "cool comfort" of modern life will become an increasingly fragile luxury for millions, turning summer peaks into seasonal crises of public health and economic stability. (Source: Editorial, "The heat and the grid: Powering through the crisis ", published in The Indian Express on June 01, 2026.)