UPSC Prelims 2023 · CSAT

Question 53: Reading Comprehension

Passage beginning “Benefits of good quality school education…” — Passage – 3 · as printed by UPSC

Which one of the following statements best reflects the crux of the passage ?

aTo become a global power, India needs to invest in universal quality education.

bIndia is unable to become a global power because it is not focussing or promoting knowledge economy.

cOur education system should focus more on imparting skills during higher education.

dParents of many school children are illiterate and are unaware of the benefits of quality education.

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).

The passage says school benefits come only when children acquire foundational skills, that the knowledge economy will leave an uneducated workforce unable to match the rest of the world, and that without a strong primary base there can be no gain in higher education or skills. The crux: to compete globally, India must invest in universal quality education. It does not blame India's failure on neglect of the knowledge economy, push skills in higher education, or discuss illiterate parents.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Right: universal quality education is the base for competing in the global economy.
(b) Wrong: the passage does not claim India is failing to promote a knowledge economy.
(c) Wrong: it stresses foundational skills at the primary level, not skills in higher education.
(d) Wrong: parents' illiteracy is not mentioned.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

Practise this paper timedPrevious question Next question

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2023, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.