Q1:

2025: 20 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

The INTERNET is flooded with wisdom on nutrition, be it weight-loss diets, intermittent fasting, veganism, giving up carbohydrates or taking supplements. The truth is, it is difficult to find a balanced meal that works for you from the information swirling around you. That's why the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), under the aegis of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), has released a comprehensive guideline on how Indians should be eating clean with easily accessible resources and, most importantly, what suits their body type.

Complete with an ideal plate, diet charts, recipes and advisories on how you should be cooking and in what cookware, this is an essential handbook that all of us would find convenient to incorporate into our daily lives. Given India's growing burden of non-communicable diseases, these guidelines are significant as they lay down the template of foundational nutrition in children, beginning with pregnant women. The report says that proper nutrition for a mother and child is linked not only to proper growth and development but also to the risk of diabetes, hypertension and heart attack later in life.

Over 56 percent of all non-communicable diseases can be attributed to an unhealthy diet. As the reports show, a healthy diet can prevent 80 percent of type 2 diabetes and significantly reduce the burden of heart disease, high blood pressure and prevent premature deaths. It has even warned against taking supplements for building body mass and recommended restricting salt intake, minimizing sugar and ultra-processed foods and reading information on food labels correctly.

The guidelines on how Indians should eat were released because:

Answer options
Option 2
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 20 May Shift 1 ENG question 1

Q2:

2025: 20 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

The seed of Indian Writing in English was sown during the period of the British rule in India. Now the seed has blossomed into an evergreen tree, with fragrant flowers and ripe fruits. The fruits are being tasted not only by the native people, but they are also being 'chewed and digested' by the foreigners. It happened only after constant care, pruning and feeding.

Indian English Literature is an honest enterprise to demonstrate the ever rare gems of Indian Writing in English. From being a singular and exceptional, rather gradual native flare - up of geniuses, Indian Writing has turned out to be a new form of Indian culture and voice in which India converses regularly. Indian writers poets, novelists, essayists, and dramatists have been making momentous and considerable contributions to world literature since the Pre Independence era. The past few years have witnessed a gigantic prospering and thriving of Indian English Writing in the global market.

Indian English Literature has attained an independent status in the realm of world literature. Wide ranges of themes are dealt with by Indian writing in English. While this literature continues to reflect Indian culture, tradition, social values and even Indian history through the depiction of life in India and Indians living elsewhere, recent Indian English fiction has been trying to give expression to the Indian experience of modern predicaments.

What does the enterprise of Indian English Literature exhibit?

Answer options
Option 4
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 20 May Shift 1 ENG question 2

Q3:

2025: 20 May Shift 1

Passage

Easy

The seed of Indian Writing in English was sown during the period of the British rule in India. Now the seed has blossomed into an evergreen tree, with fragrant flowers and ripe fruits. The fruits are being tasted not only by the native people, but they are also being 'chewed and digested' by the foreigners. It happened only after constant care, pruning and feeding.

Indian English Literature is an honest enterprise to demonstrate the ever rare gems of Indian Writing in English. From being a singular and exceptional, rather gradual native flare - up of geniuses, Indian Writing has turned out to be a new form of Indian culture and voice in which India converses regularly. Indian writers poets, novelists, essayists, and dramatists have been making momentous and considerable contributions to world literature since the Pre Independence era. The past few years have witnessed a gigantic prospering and thriving of Indian English Writing in the global market.

Indian English Literature has attained an independent status in the realm of world literature. Wide ranges of themes are dealt with by Indian writing in English. While this literature continues to reflect Indian culture, tradition, social values and even Indian history through the depiction of life in India and Indians living elsewhere, recent Indian English fiction has been trying to give expression to the Indian experience of modern predicaments.

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word :

Indian writers - poets, novelists, essayists, and dramatists have been making momentous and considerable contributions to world literature.

Answer options
Option 2
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 20 May Shift 1 ENG question 3

Q4:

2025: 20 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

The seed of Indian Writing in English was sown during the period of the British rule in India. Now the seed has blossomed into an evergreen tree, with fragrant flowers and ripe fruits. The fruits are being tasted not only by the native people, but they are also being 'chewed and digested' by the foreigners. It happened only after constant care, pruning and feeding.

Indian English Literature is an honest enterprise to demonstrate the ever rare gems of Indian Writing in English. From being a singular and exceptional, rather gradual native flare - up of geniuses, Indian Writing has turned out to be a new form of Indian culture and voice in which India converses regularly. Indian writers poets, novelists, essayists, and dramatists have been making momentous and considerable contributions to world literature since the Pre Independence era. The past few years have witnessed a gigantic prospering and thriving of Indian English Writing in the global market.

Indian English Literature has attained an independent status in the realm of world literature. Wide ranges of themes are dealt with by Indian writing in English. While this literature continues to reflect Indian culture, tradition, social values and even Indian history through the depiction of life in India and Indians living elsewhere, recent Indian English fiction has been trying to give expression to the Indian experience of modern predicaments.

According to the passage, Indian Writing in English dealt with the themes of:

(A) how the seed of Indian writing in English was sown during colonial rule.

(B) Indian culture, tradition and social values

(C) Indian history through the depiction of life in India and Indians living elsewhere

(D) Indian experience of modern predicaments.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Answer options
Option 2
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 20 May Shift 1 ENG question 4

Q5:

2025: 20 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

The seed of Indian Writing in English was sown during the period of the British rule in India. Now the seed has blossomed into an evergreen tree, with fragrant flowers and ripe fruits. The fruits are being tasted not only by the native people, but they are also being 'chewed and digested' by the foreigners. It happened only after constant care, pruning and feeding.

Indian English Literature is an honest enterprise to demonstrate the ever rare gems of Indian Writing in English. From being a singular and exceptional, rather gradual native flare - up of geniuses, Indian Writing has turned out to be a new form of Indian culture and voice in which India converses regularly. Indian writers poets, novelists, essayists, and dramatists have been making momentous and considerable contributions to world literature since the Pre Independence era. The past few years have witnessed a gigantic prospering and thriving of Indian English Writing in the global market.

Indian English Literature has attained an independent status in the realm of world literature. Wide ranges of themes are dealt with by Indian writing in English. While this literature continues to reflect Indian culture, tradition, social values and even Indian history through the depiction of life in India and Indians living elsewhere, recent Indian English fiction has been trying to give expression to the Indian experience of modern predicaments.

Indian writers have been making considerable contributions to world literature since:

Answer options
Option 3
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 20 May Shift 1 ENG question 5

Q6:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

It's a tough time to be a glacier. Scientists expected Venezuela's Humboldt Glacier to last another decade, but in 2024 it melted into an ice field, shrinking to under two hectares. This marks the loss of the country's last glacier and signals a grim future for others. Scientists warn that glaciers in countries like Germany and Mexico will also disappear as fossil fuel consumption accelerates global warming. Communities depending on glaciers for fresh water face challenges, as glaciers in mountain ranges like the Andes provide vital drinking and irrigation water for millions of people.

However, about 80% of global glaciers, excluding polar ice sheets, could survive if countries rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tropical glaciers in regions such as the Andes, East Africa, and Indonesia, however, are unlikely to recover due to higher temperatures. Despite pledges in the 2015 Paris Agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, current projections suggest a rise of 3°C, potentially raising sea levels by nearly 10 feet by 2100, threatening island nations like Fiji and the Maldives with destruction.

A proposal to protect ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland involves a 62-mile-long removable underwater curtain, but experts like James Kirkham from the International Cryosphere Initiative caution that such measures are distractions from the real issue: halting global heating. Without decisive action, glaciers will continue to melt, and more countries will lose their ice. The urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer, and the world's glaciers can't afford any more delays.

There is hope of survival for a significant number of global glaciers in case_______.

Answer options
Option 4
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 19 May Shift 2 ENG question 6

Q7:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

It's a tough time to be a glacier. Scientists expected Venezuela's Humboldt Glacier to last another decade, but in 2024 it melted into an ice field, shrinking to under two hectares. This marks the loss of the country's last glacier and signals a grim future for others. Scientists warn that glaciers in countries like Germany and Mexico will also disappear as fossil fuel consumption accelerates global warming. Communities depending on glaciers for fresh water face challenges, as glaciers in mountain ranges like the Andes provide vital drinking and irrigation water for millions of people.

However, about 80% of global glaciers, excluding polar ice sheets, could survive if countries rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tropical glaciers in regions such as the Andes, East Africa, and Indonesia, however, are unlikely to recover due to higher temperatures. Despite pledges in the 2015 Paris Agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, current projections suggest a rise of 3°C, potentially raising sea levels by nearly 10 feet by 2100, threatening island nations like Fiji and the Maldives with destruction.

A proposal to protect ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland involves a 62-mile-long removable underwater curtain, but experts like James Kirkham from the International Cryosphere Initiative caution that such measures are distractions from the real issue: halting global heating. Without decisive action, glaciers will continue to melt, and more countries will lose their ice. The urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer, and the world's glaciers can't afford any more delays.

Why might the proposal to build a removable underwater curtain be viewed with skepticism by experts like James Kirkham?

Answer options
Option 3
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 19 May Shift 2 ENG question 7

Q8:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

It's a tough time to be a glacier. Scientists expected Venezuela's Humboldt Glacier to last another decade, but in 2024 it melted into an ice field, shrinking to under two hectares. This marks the loss of the country's last glacier and signals a grim future for others. Scientists warn that glaciers in countries like Germany and Mexico will also disappear as fossil fuel consumption accelerates global warming. Communities depending on glaciers for fresh water face challenges, as glaciers in mountain ranges like the Andes provide vital drinking and irrigation water for millions of people.

However, about 80% of global glaciers, excluding polar ice sheets, could survive if countries rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tropical glaciers in regions such as the Andes, East Africa, and Indonesia, however, are unlikely to recover due to higher temperatures. Despite pledges in the 2015 Paris Agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, current projections suggest a rise of 3°C, potentially raising sea levels by nearly 10 feet by 2100, threatening island nations like Fiji and the Maldives with destruction.

A proposal to protect ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland involves a 62-mile-long removable underwater curtain, but experts like James Kirkham from the International Cryosphere Initiative caution that such measures are distractions from the real issue: halting global heating. Without decisive action, glaciers will continue to melt, and more countries will lose their ice. The urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer, and the world's glaciers can't afford any more delays.

What does the writer mean by the statement-- 'It's a tough time to be a glacier'?

Answer options
Option 3
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 19 May Shift 2 ENG question 8

Q9:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

It's a tough time to be a glacier. Scientists expected Venezuela's Humboldt Glacier to last another decade, but in 2024 it melted into an ice field, shrinking to under two hectares. This marks the loss of the country's last glacier and signals a grim future for others. Scientists warn that glaciers in countries like Germany and Mexico will also disappear as fossil fuel consumption accelerates global warming. Communities depending on glaciers for fresh water face challenges, as glaciers in mountain ranges like the Andes provide vital drinking and irrigation water for millions of people.

However, about 80% of global glaciers, excluding polar ice sheets, could survive if countries rapidly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Tropical glaciers in regions such as the Andes, East Africa, and Indonesia, however, are unlikely to recover due to higher temperatures. Despite pledges in the 2015 Paris Agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, current projections suggest a rise of 3°C, potentially raising sea levels by nearly 10 feet by 2100, threatening island nations like Fiji and the Maldives with destruction.

A proposal to protect ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland involves a 62-mile-long removable underwater curtain, but experts like James Kirkham from the International Cryosphere Initiative caution that such measures are distractions from the real issue: halting global heating. Without decisive action, glaciers will continue to melt, and more countries will lose their ice. The urgency of addressing climate change has never been clearer, and the world's glaciers can't afford any more delays.

Current projections of global warming at 3°C above pre-industrial levels suggest that the human race _______.

Answer options
Option 1
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 19 May Shift 2 ENG question 9

Q10:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Hard

At length the Parsonage was discernible. The garden sloping to the road, the house in it, the green pales, and the laurel hedge all declared their arrival. Mr. Collins and Charlotte appeared at the door as the carriage stopped at the small gate leading to the house.

In a moment they were all out of the chaise, rejoicing at the sight of each other. Mrs. Collins welcomed her friend with the liveliest pleasure, and Elizabeth was entirely satisfied on being so affectionately received. She saw instantly that her cousin’s manners were not altered by his marriage; his formal civility was just what it had been, and he detained her some minutes at the gate to hear and satisfy his inquiries after all her family. They were then, with no other delay than his pointing out the neatness of the entrance, taken into the house; and as soon as they were in the parlour, he welcomed them, with ostentatious formality, to his humble abode, and punctually repeated all his wife’s offers of refreshment. Elizabeth was prepared to see him in his glory; and she could not help in fancying that in displaying the good proportion of the room, its aspect and its furniture, he addressed himself particularly to her, as if wishing to make her feel what she had lost in refusing him. But though everything seemed neat and comfortable, she was not able to gratify him by any sigh of repentance, and wondered how her friend could have so cheerful an air with such a companion.

Elizabeth wonders about Charlotte's cheerful demeanour despite her marriage to Mr. Collins as she_______.

Answer options

Q11:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Hard

At length the Parsonage was discernible. The garden sloping to the road, the house in it, the green pales, and the laurel hedge all declared their arrival. Mr. Collins and Charlotte appeared at the door as the carriage stopped at the small gate leading to the house.

In a moment they were all out of the chaise, rejoicing at the sight of each other. Mrs. Collins welcomed her friend with the liveliest pleasure, and Elizabeth was entirely satisfied on being so affectionately received. She saw instantly that her cousin’s manners were not altered by his marriage; his formal civility was just what it had been, and he detained her some minutes at the gate to hear and satisfy his inquiries after all her family. They were then, with no other delay than his pointing out the neatness of the entrance, taken into the house; and as soon as they were in the parlour, he welcomed them, with ostentatious formality, to his humble abode, and punctually repeated all his wife’s offers of refreshment. Elizabeth was prepared to see him in his glory; and she could not help in fancying that in displaying the good proportion of the room, its aspect and its furniture, he addressed himself particularly to her, as if wishing to make her feel what she had lost in refusing him. But though everything seemed neat and comfortable, she was not able to gratify him by any sigh of repentance, and wondered how her friend could have so cheerful an air with such a companion.

Which of the following best describes Mr. Collins' character in these lines?

Answer options

Q12:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Hard

At length the Parsonage was discernible. The garden sloping to the road, the house in it, the green pales, and the laurel hedge all declared their arrival. Mr. Collins and Charlotte appeared at the door as the carriage stopped at the small gate leading to the house.

In a moment they were all out of the chaise, rejoicing at the sight of each other. Mrs. Collins welcomed her friend with the liveliest pleasure, and Elizabeth was entirely satisfied on being so affectionately received. She saw instantly that her cousin’s manners were not altered by his marriage; his formal civility was just what it had been, and he detained her some minutes at the gate to hear and satisfy his inquiries after all her family. They were then, with no other delay than his pointing out the neatness of the entrance, taken into the house; and as soon as they were in the parlour, he welcomed them, with ostentatious formality, to his humble abode, and punctually repeated all his wife’s offers of refreshment. Elizabeth was prepared to see him in his glory; and she could not help in fancying that in displaying the good proportion of the room, its aspect and its furniture, he addressed himself particularly to her, as if wishing to make her feel what she had lost in refusing him. But though everything seemed neat and comfortable, she was not able to gratify him by any sigh of repentance, and wondered how her friend could have so cheerful an air with such a companion.

Elizabeth's lack of repentance suggests that she is _______.

Answer options

Q13:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Hard

At length the Parsonage was discernible. The garden sloping to the road, the house in it, the green pales, and the laurel hedge all declared their arrival. Mr. Collins and Charlotte appeared at the door as the carriage stopped at the small gate leading to the house.

In a moment they were all out of the chaise, rejoicing at the sight of each other. Mrs. Collins welcomed her friend with the liveliest pleasure, and Elizabeth was entirely satisfied on being so affectionately received. She saw instantly that her cousin’s manners were not altered by his marriage; his formal civility was just what it had been, and he detained her some minutes at the gate to hear and satisfy his inquiries after all her family. They were then, with no other delay than his pointing out the neatness of the entrance, taken into the house; and as soon as they were in the parlour, he welcomed them, with ostentatious formality, to his humble abode, and punctually repeated all his wife’s offers of refreshment. Elizabeth was prepared to see him in his glory; and she could not help in fancying that in displaying the good proportion of the room, its aspect and its furniture, he addressed himself particularly to her, as if wishing to make her feel what she had lost in refusing him. But though everything seemed neat and comfortable, she was not able to gratify him by any sigh of repentance, and wondered how her friend could have so cheerful an air with such a companion.

How does Elizabeth perceive Mr. Collins' attempts to display his home?

Answer options

Q14:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

In July 1973, Amitav Ghosh joined St. Stephen’s College in Delhi. Like every other freshman, he was nervous about the first few weeks, when one was ‘ragged’ – shorthand for being verbally harassed, harangued, interrogated, and intimidated – by seniors. Twenty-five years later, by now an established novelist, Amitav Ghosh wrote: the year I joined College, the word among us freshers was that the most terrifying ragger in College lived in Rudra Court, in L5. Terrifying because he wasn’t the usual kind of bullying, bellowing senior. No, he was to them as the panther is to the elephant. He was bearded, and soft-spoken, so stealthy that you never sensed his presence until he had you square in his sights. Young Amitav was able to escape the clutches of this fearful senior for a fortnight. But then he ‘was “nabbed while attempting to abscond” as the Indian Express used to say’. The ‘legend of L5’ caught hold of the fresher, and quizzed him about his interests. ‘I like classical music,‘ answered Ghosh, nervously. ‘You do?’ said the legend and walked him into his room in Rudra North. The legend put a record on the turntable and began to play it. He asked Ghosh to identify the composer and composition. Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto answered the fresher, correctly. Three or four more records were played and all except one accurately identified. At this, ‘The legend stuck out his hand. “I’m Rukun Advani,” he said. “Let’s go down to Maurice Nagar and have a cup of tea.”’

What was the outcome of Amitav Ghosh's interaction with the 'legend of L5'?

Answer options

Q15:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

In July 1973, Amitav Ghosh joined St. Stephen’s College in Delhi. Like every other freshman, he was nervous about the first few weeks, when one was ‘ragged’ – shorthand for being verbally harassed, harangued, interrogated, and intimidated – by seniors. Twenty-five years later, by now an established novelist, Amitav Ghosh wrote: the year I joined College, the word among us freshers was that the most terrifying ragger in College lived in Rudra Court, in L5. Terrifying because he wasn’t the usual kind of bullying, bellowing senior. No, he was to them as the panther is to the elephant. He was bearded, and soft-spoken, so stealthy that you never sensed his presence until he had you square in his sights. Young Amitav was able to escape the clutches of this fearful senior for a fortnight. But then he ‘was “nabbed while attempting to abscond” as the Indian Express used to say’. The ‘legend of L5’ caught hold of the fresher, and quizzed him about his interests. ‘I like classical music,‘ answered Ghosh, nervously. ‘You do?’ said the legend and walked him into his room in Rudra North. The legend put a record on the turntable and began to play it. He asked Ghosh to identify the composer and composition. Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto answered the fresher, correctly. Three or four more records were played and all except one accurately identified. At this, ‘The legend stuck out his hand. “I’m Rukun Advani,” he said. “Let’s go down to Maurice Nagar and have a cup of tea.”’

What aspect of ragging does the phrase 'nabbed while attempting to abscond' humorously highlight?

Answer options
Option 1,2
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 19 May Shift 2 ENG question 15

Q16:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

In July 1973, Amitav Ghosh joined St. Stephen’s College in Delhi. Like every other freshman, he was nervous about the first few weeks, when one was ‘ragged’ – shorthand for being verbally harassed, harangued, interrogated, and intimidated – by seniors. Twenty-five years later, by now an established novelist, Amitav Ghosh wrote: the year I joined College, the word among us freshers was that the most terrifying ragger in College lived in Rudra Court, in L5. Terrifying because he wasn’t the usual kind of bullying, bellowing senior. No, he was to them as the panther is to the elephant. He was bearded, and soft-spoken, so stealthy that you never sensed his presence until he had you square in his sights. Young Amitav was able to escape the clutches of this fearful senior for a fortnight. But then he ‘was “nabbed while attempting to abscond” as the Indian Express used to say’. The ‘legend of L5’ caught hold of the fresher, and quizzed him about his interests. ‘I like classical music,‘ answered Ghosh, nervously. ‘You do?’ said the legend and walked him into his room in Rudra North. The legend put a record on the turntable and began to play it. He asked Ghosh to identify the composer and composition. Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto answered the fresher, correctly. Three or four more records were played and all except one accurately identified. At this, ‘The legend stuck out his hand. “I’m Rukun Advani,” he said. “Let’s go down to Maurice Nagar and have a cup of tea.”’

What set the 'legend of L5' apart from typical raggers in St. Stephen's College?

Answer options

Q17:

2025: 19 May Shift 2

Passage

Medium

In July 1973, Amitav Ghosh joined St. Stephen’s College in Delhi. Like every other freshman, he was nervous about the first few weeks, when one was ‘ragged’ – shorthand for being verbally harassed, harangued, interrogated, and intimidated – by seniors. Twenty-five years later, by now an established novelist, Amitav Ghosh wrote: the year I joined College, the word among us freshers was that the most terrifying ragger in College lived in Rudra Court, in L5. Terrifying because he wasn’t the usual kind of bullying, bellowing senior. No, he was to them as the panther is to the elephant. He was bearded, and soft-spoken, so stealthy that you never sensed his presence until he had you square in his sights. Young Amitav was able to escape the clutches of this fearful senior for a fortnight. But then he ‘was “nabbed while attempting to abscond” as the Indian Express used to say’. The ‘legend of L5’ caught hold of the fresher, and quizzed him about his interests. ‘I like classical music,‘ answered Ghosh, nervously. ‘You do?’ said the legend and walked him into his room in Rudra North. The legend put a record on the turntable and began to play it. He asked Ghosh to identify the composer and composition. Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto answered the fresher, correctly. Three or four more records were played and all except one accurately identified. At this, ‘The legend stuck out his hand. “I’m Rukun Advani,” he said. “Let’s go down to Maurice Nagar and have a cup of tea.”’

Why does the passage mention Beethoven's Emperor Concerto?

Answer options
Option 2,3
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 19 May Shift 2 ENG question 17

Q18:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Easy

Biodiversity, also referred to as biological diversity, is the variety of different species of flora and fauna living on Earth. The richer the biodiversity, the more balanced and harmonious would the environment be. Different variety of plants and animals contribute their bit to make the planet worth inhabiting. One of the main reasons for the survival of human species on Earth is biodiversity. This is because various species of organisms help in meeting their basic needs of food, shelter, clothing and other resources. There are around 300,000 species of flora that have been known to date and numerous species of fauna that includes not only animals but also birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, insects, molluscs, crustaceans, etc.

Our planet Earth was formed close to 4.54 billion years ago and there have been evidences of life since around 3.5 billion years ago. A number of species of both flora and fauna have gone extinct over the past centuries and many more are anticipated to go extinct in the times to come, there by disturbing the level of biodiversity. Human beings have become so driven towards technology over the years that they have forgotten its repercussions. Several new inventions have proven to be hazardous to the environment and are having a negative impact on biodiversity. It is high time humans should start taking the environmental issues seriously and contribute their bit towards improving the atmosphere. A healthy environment is essential for developing rich biodiversity which in turn is essential for the human beings to live in a harmonious state on Earth.

What is essential for developing a rich biodiversity?

Answer options

Q19:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

Biodiversity, also referred to as biological diversity, is the variety of different species of flora and fauna living on Earth. The richer the biodiversity, the more balanced and harmonious would the environment be. Different variety of plants and animals contribute their bit to make the planet worth inhabiting. One of the main reasons for the survival of human species on Earth is biodiversity. This is because various species of organisms help in meeting their basic needs of food, shelter, clothing and other resources. There are around 300,000 species of flora that have been known to date and numerous species of fauna that includes not only animals but also birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, insects, molluscs, crustaceans, etc.

Our planet Earth was formed close to 4.54 billion years ago and there have been evidences of life since around 3.5 billion years ago. A number of species of both flora and fauna have gone extinct over the past centuries and many more are anticipated to go extinct in the times to come, there by disturbing the level of biodiversity. Human beings have become so driven towards technology over the years that they have forgotten its repercussions. Several new inventions have proven to be hazardous to the environment and are having a negative impact on biodiversity. It is high time humans should start taking the environmental issues seriously and contribute their bit towards improving the atmosphere. A healthy environment is essential for developing rich biodiversity which in turn is essential for the human beings to live in a harmonious state on Earth.

The drive towards technological advancement may lead to-----------.

Answer options

Q20:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

Biodiversity, also referred to as biological diversity, is the variety of different species of flora and fauna living on Earth. The richer the biodiversity, the more balanced and harmonious would the environment be. Different variety of plants and animals contribute their bit to make the planet worth inhabiting. One of the main reasons for the survival of human species on Earth is biodiversity. This is because various species of organisms help in meeting their basic needs of food, shelter, clothing and other resources. There are around 300,000 species of flora that have been known to date and numerous species of fauna that includes not only animals but also birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, insects, molluscs, crustaceans, etc.

Our planet Earth was formed close to 4.54 billion years ago and there have been evidences of life since around 3.5 billion years ago. A number of species of both flora and fauna have gone extinct over the past centuries and many more are anticipated to go extinct in the times to come, there by disturbing the level of biodiversity. Human beings have become so driven towards technology over the years that they have forgotten its repercussions. Several new inventions have proven to be hazardous to the environment and are having a negative impact on biodiversity. It is high time humans should start taking the environmental issues seriously and contribute their bit towards improving the atmosphere. A healthy environment is essential for developing rich biodiversity which in turn is essential for the human beings to live in a harmonious state on Earth.

Why is biodiversity important for human survival?

Answer options

Q21:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Easy

Biodiversity, also referred to as biological diversity, is the variety of different species of flora and fauna living on Earth. The richer the biodiversity, the more balanced and harmonious would the environment be. Different variety of plants and animals contribute their bit to make the planet worth inhabiting. One of the main reasons for the survival of human species on Earth is biodiversity. This is because various species of organisms help in meeting their basic needs of food, shelter, clothing and other resources. There are around 300,000 species of flora that have been known to date and numerous species of fauna that includes not only animals but also birds, fish, reptiles, mammals, insects, molluscs, crustaceans, etc.

Our planet Earth was formed close to 4.54 billion years ago and there have been evidences of life since around 3.5 billion years ago. A number of species of both flora and fauna have gone extinct over the past centuries and many more are anticipated to go extinct in the times to come, there by disturbing the level of biodiversity. Human beings have become so driven towards technology over the years that they have forgotten its repercussions. Several new inventions have proven to be hazardous to the environment and are having a negative impact on biodiversity. It is high time humans should start taking the environmental issues seriously and contribute their bit towards improving the atmosphere. A healthy environment is essential for developing rich biodiversity which in turn is essential for the human beings to live in a harmonious state on Earth.

Find a word from the passage which means the same as the word ---- consequence

Answer options

Q22:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

If you are struggling to learn a new language, breathe, you're not alone. Adults famously find language learning more difficult than children, whose super-flexible brains actually grow the connections necessary to learn an additional language.

But, why is it so hard to learn a foreign language, anyway? Put simply, it's hard because it challenges both your mind and time. But there's more to it than that.

Have you ever wondered why some people sail through Spanish and others can barely mutter 'hola'? Well, there is research which suggests that our own brain's unique wiring can pre-determine language success. In a study conducted at McGill University, participants' brains were scanned before and after undergoing an intensive 12-week French course. Researchers found that stronger connections between brain centers involved in speaking and reading were seen in the better-performing participants. While this could mean that some people are simply cognitively better equipped for language learning, it doesn't mean that everyone shouldn't try.

After-work classes, study abroad, apps, talking with your foreign partner, working overseas, taking an intensive language course—there are so many ways to learn a language. However, it's clear that because adults have to, you know, be adults, we simply can't learn 'implicitly' as young children do, by following around a native speaker all day. Unfortunately, our more sophisticated grown-up brains come in the way of learning.

Identify the statement that is NOT true according to the passage:

Answer options

Q23:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Easy

If you are struggling to learn a new language, breathe, you're not alone. Adults famously find language learning more difficult than children, whose super-flexible brains actually grow the connections necessary to learn an additional language.

But, why is it so hard to learn a foreign language, anyway? Put simply, it's hard because it challenges both your mind and time. But there's more to it than that.

Have you ever wondered why some people sail through Spanish and others can barely mutter 'hola'? Well, there is research which suggests that our own brain's unique wiring can pre-determine language success. In a study conducted at McGill University, participants' brains were scanned before and after undergoing an intensive 12-week French course. Researchers found that stronger connections between brain centers involved in speaking and reading were seen in the better-performing participants. While this could mean that some people are simply cognitively better equipped for language learning, it doesn't mean that everyone shouldn't try.

After-work classes, study abroad, apps, talking with your foreign partner, working overseas, taking an intensive language course—there are so many ways to learn a language. However, it's clear that because adults have to, you know, be adults, we simply can't learn 'implicitly' as young children do, by following around a native speaker all day. Unfortunately, our more sophisticated grown-up brains come in the way of learning.

It is easier for children to learn a new language because:

Answer options

Q24:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

If you are struggling to learn a new language, breathe, you're not alone. Adults famously find language learning more difficult than children, whose super-flexible brains actually grow the connections necessary to learn an additional language.

But, why is it so hard to learn a foreign language, anyway? Put simply, it's hard because it challenges both your mind and time. But there's more to it than that.

Have you ever wondered why some people sail through Spanish and others can barely mutter 'hola'? Well, there is research which suggests that our own brain's unique wiring can pre-determine language success. In a study conducted at McGill University, participants' brains were scanned before and after undergoing an intensive 12-week French course. Researchers found that stronger connections between brain centers involved in speaking and reading were seen in the better-performing participants. While this could mean that some people are simply cognitively better equipped for language learning, it doesn't mean that everyone shouldn't try.

After-work classes, study abroad, apps, talking with your foreign partner, working overseas, taking an intensive language course—there are so many ways to learn a language. However, it's clear that because adults have to, you know, be adults, we simply can't learn 'implicitly' as young children do, by following around a native speaker all day. Unfortunately, our more sophisticated grown-up brains come in the way of learning.

The antonym of 'sophisticated' is:

Answer options

Q25:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

If you are struggling to learn a new language, breathe, you're not alone. Adults famously find language learning more difficult than children, whose super-flexible brains actually grow the connections necessary to learn an additional language.

But, why is it so hard to learn a foreign language, anyway? Put simply, it's hard because it challenges both your mind and time. But there's more to it than that.

Have you ever wondered why some people sail through Spanish and others can barely mutter 'hola'? Well, there is research which suggests that our own brain's unique wiring can pre-determine language success. In a study conducted at McGill University, participants' brains were scanned before and after undergoing an intensive 12-week French course. Researchers found that stronger connections between brain centers involved in speaking and reading were seen in the better-performing participants. While this could mean that some people are simply cognitively better equipped for language learning, it doesn't mean that everyone shouldn't try.

After-work classes, study abroad, apps, talking with your foreign partner, working overseas, taking an intensive language course—there are so many ways to learn a language. However, it's clear that because adults have to, you know, be adults, we simply can't learn 'implicitly' as young children do, by following around a native speaker all day. Unfortunately, our more sophisticated grown-up brains come in the way of learning.

The writer says 'breathe' in line 1 to :

Answer options

Q26:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Easy

As soon as I entered this fascinating world I was looked upon with great expectations. The world was full of racism yet I was held in high esteem. People from the United States of America to Antartica looked at me as I rolled out from the parentage of Europeans. Since economists, raging bulls and bears did not know much about me, I caught the apprehension of my parents, the share market holders, the financial experts, scholars, students and so on. At my birth, I was placed on the lap of my mother, the Federal Bank.

Frankly, my brother Lira, my sister Sterling and my extended family members like the Deutsch Mark and the Yen were quite jealous of me. I knew my worth. I reveal this secret of mine. I am a form of money held or traded outside the country, in whose currency its value is stated. In future I will be globally accepted by the members of all the nations.

I now take pride of place in Euromarket, a financial market which deals with European currencies. I do not want to roll over, but I'd love to be accepted by the developing as well as underdeveloped nations.

Why are the other currencies jealous of the Euro?

Answer options

Q27:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

As soon as I entered this fascinating world I was looked upon with great expectations. The world was full of racism yet I was held in high esteem. People from the United States of America to Antartica looked at me as I rolled out from the parentage of Europeans. Since economists, raging bulls and bears did not know much about me, I caught the apprehension of my parents, the share market holders, the financial experts, scholars, students and so on. At my birth, I was placed on the lap of my mother, the Federal Bank.

Frankly, my brother Lira, my sister Sterling and my extended family members like the Deutsch Mark and the Yen were quite jealous of me. I knew my worth. I reveal this secret of mine. I am a form of money held or traded outside the country, in whose currency its value is stated. In future I will be globally accepted by the members of all the nations.

I now take pride of place in Euromarket, a financial market which deals with European currencies. I do not want to roll over, but I'd love to be accepted by the developing as well as underdeveloped nations.

Identify the statement that is not true according to the passage:

Answer options

Q28:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Easy

As soon as I entered this fascinating world I was looked upon with great expectations. The world was full of racism yet I was held in high esteem. People from the United States of America to Antartica looked at me as I rolled out from the parentage of Europeans. Since economists, raging bulls and bears did not know much about me, I caught the apprehension of my parents, the share market holders, the financial experts, scholars, students and so on. At my birth, I was placed on the lap of my mother, the Federal Bank.

Frankly, my brother Lira, my sister Sterling and my extended family members like the Deutsch Mark and the Yen were quite jealous of me. I knew my worth. I reveal this secret of mine. I am a form of money held or traded outside the country, in whose currency its value is stated. In future I will be globally accepted by the members of all the nations.

I now take pride of place in Euromarket, a financial market which deals with European currencies. I do not want to roll over, but I'd love to be accepted by the developing as well as underdeveloped nations.

The phrase 'bulls & bears' refer to:

Answer options

Q29:

2025: 19 May Shift 1

Passage

Easy

As soon as I entered this fascinating world I was looked upon with great expectations. The world was full of racism yet I was held in high esteem. People from the United States of America to Antartica looked at me as I rolled out from the parentage of Europeans. Since economists, raging bulls and bears did not know much about me, I caught the apprehension of my parents, the share market holders, the financial experts, scholars, students and so on. At my birth, I was placed on the lap of my mother, the Federal Bank.

Frankly, my brother Lira, my sister Sterling and my extended family members like the Deutsch Mark and the Yen were quite jealous of me. I knew my worth. I reveal this secret of mine. I am a form of money held or traded outside the country, in whose currency its value is stated. In future I will be globally accepted by the members of all the nations.

I now take pride of place in Euromarket, a financial market which deals with European currencies. I do not want to roll over, but I'd love to be accepted by the developing as well as underdeveloped nations.

'Euro' has originated from-

Answer options

Q30:

2025: 16 May Shift 1

Passage

Medium

The postmaster’s office was located in the village of Ulapur. It was a quaint village, there was an indigo plantation nearby, and so the manager—an Englishman goaded by the need for communication—had arranged for the setting up of a post office.

The postmaster was a young man from Calcutta. Stationed here, away from the known limits of civilization, he often felt like a fish out of water. The plantation workers seemed to have their own community. Social miscegenation between two different classes of people seemed all but impossible.

In truth, the boy from the city wasn’t good at mixing with people. Uprooted and exiled to a foreign land, his feelings oscillated between arrogance and shame. He rarely met any of the villagers. He wrote poems: poems of endless waiting, poems in which the marrow of life seemed to resonate with the faint tremble of young leaves, where the memory of existence was rejuvenated by the sight of rain clouds. He longed for the security of metal roads, of tall houses which blocked the sight of clouds in the open sky. The city was spreading its tentacles, calling him back.

The postmaster’s salary was meager. Evenings would arrive with plumes of smoke rising from the cowshed. The evening would be as still as the cadence of lost poetry, the silence all around would shake the fault lines of the heart; and as all of this would take place, the postmaster would light his lamp.

Which idiom best describes the postmaster's feelings towards the city?

Answer options
Option 2,4
Correct Answer
Explanation for 2025: 16 May Shift 1 ENG question 30