UPSC NDA II 2011 General Ability Paper

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Directions (For the 07 items which follow) : In this section, you have two short passages. After each passage, you will find several questions based on the passage. First, read a passage and then answer the questions based on it. You are required to select your answers based on the contents of the passage and opinion of the auther only.
Examples 'I' and ' J ' have been solved for you.
PASSAGE (EXAMPLE)
In our approach to life, be it pragmatic or otherwise, a basic fact that confronts us squarely and unmistakably is the desire for peace, security and happiness. Different forms of life at different levels of existence make up the teeming denizens of this earth of ours. And, no matter whether they belong to the higher groups such as human beings or to the lower groups such as animals, all beings primarily seek peace, comfort and security. Life is as dear to a mute creature as it is to a man. Even the lowliest insect strives for protection against dangers that threaten its life. Just as each one of us wants to live and not to die, so do all other creatures.
I. The author's main point is that
A. different forms of life are found on the earth
B. different levels of existence are possible in nature
C. peace and security are the chief goals of all living beings
D. even the weakest creature struggles to preserve its life
J. Which one of the following assumptions or steps is essential in developing the author's position?
A. All forms of life have a single overriding goal
B. The will to survive of a creature is identified with a desire for peace
C. All beings are divided into higher and lower groups
D. A parallel is drawn between happiness and life, and pain and death
Explanation:
I. The idea which represents the author's main point is "peace and security are the chief goals of all living beings", which is response (C). So (C) is the correct answer.
J. The best assumption underlying the passage is "The will to survive of a creature is identified with a desire for peace", which is response (B). So (B) is the correct answer.
Passage I
Elephants spray water over their ears to stay cool. The rhythm of an elephant's day is set largely by its watering routine. An adult needs about thirty gallons of water a day. When water is abundant there is no problem. But during droughts, elephants resort to an intriguing technique: digging wells. In a dried-up river bed they scoop out holes with their forefeet until they reach water. After waiting patiently for the sand to settle, they drink in order of seniority, calves last.
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