Question

Directions: Replace the number with the word(s) that best fit(s) the meaning of the passage as a whole.
Indian institutions prefer students to be _______ (46) listeners. Our education system, barring a few exceptions, encourages a hierarchical relationship between teacher and student. The former controls knowledge and the latter is expected to submissively accept what is handed down. The argumentative Indian thrives despite the system. This may look like an / a _______ (47) because a competitive political democracy like India should have facilitated an educational system that is cool about arguments and dissent. Or, is the _______ (48) in the education system a reflection of a flaw in our democratic culture? We have regular elections and our political space teems with parties subscribing to a _______ (49) of ideologies. But is this space sufficiently democratic so that people get the leaders they deserve? A range of identities such as family, clan, caste, religion influences our choice of leaders more than their understanding of public policy. Beneath _______ (50) of democracy, the old social order, where caste was privileged over merit, has survived, though in a weaker form.
Or, is the _______ (48) in the education system a reflection of a flaw in our democratic culture?

• A. Vacuum
• B. Twist
• C. Lacuna
• D. Effect
• E. Triviality

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The correct answer is option (C):

Lacuna

The correct answer is "Lacuna."

The passage discusses a perceived deficiency or gap in the Indian education system, particularly its encouragement of passive learning. The question asks whether this deficiency reflects a flaw in democratic culture.

"Lacuna" means a gap, missing part, or deficiency. It fits the context perfectly, as the passage is questioning a shortcoming in the education system. The use of "lacuna" implies a missing or incomplete aspect, aligning with the idea that the education system is not fully fostering critical thinking and debate. The other options do not logically fit the sentence. Vacuum suggests a lack of something. Twist suggests a sudden change. Effect is too broad. Triviality suggests a lack of importance.