Q.61
Modern warfare has changed from large scale clashes of armies to suppression of civilian populations.
Chemical agents that do their work silently appear to be suited to such warfare;
and regretfully, there exist people in military establishments who think that chemical agents
are useful tools for their cause.
Which of the following statements best sums up the meaning of the above passage:
Options:
(A) Modern warfare has resulted in civil strife.
(B) Chemical agents are useful in modern warfare.
(C) Use of chemical agents in warfare would be undesirable.
(D) People in military establishments like to use chemical agents in war.
Introduction
Questions based on reading comprehension test a candidate’s ability to identify the central idea or theme of a passage rather than focusing on isolated statements. Such questions are frequently asked in SSC, Banking, CAT, UPSC, CSAT, and other competitive exams.
In this passage, the author discusses the changing nature of modern warfare, particularly the role of chemical agents, and hints at ethical and strategic concerns. Let us analyze the passage carefully to determine the option that best summarizes its meaning.
Passage Summary (In Simple Words)
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Modern warfare has shifted from large-scale army clashes to suppression of civilian populations.
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Chemical agents are silent and effective, making them appear suitable for modern warfare.
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Unfortunately, some people in military establishments believe chemical agents are useful tools.
The tone of the passage is critical and cautionary, not supportive.
Correct Answer
✅ Option (C): Use of chemical agents in warfare would be undesirable.
Explanation of All Options
Option (A): Modern warfare has resulted in civil strife. ❌
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The passage mentions suppression of civilians but does not conclude that modern warfare results in civil strife.
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This option captures only a small part of the passage.
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Not the main idea.
Option (B): Chemical agents are useful in modern warfare. ❌
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This reflects the belief of some military people, not the author’s viewpoint.
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The passage uses words like “regretfully”, indicating disapproval.
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Misinterprets the author’s tone.
Option (C): Use of chemical agents in warfare would be undesirable. ✅ (Correct)
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Accurately reflects the author’s concern and critical tone.
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Summarizes the ethical warning implied in the passage.
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Covers the overall message rather than a single detail.
Option (D): People in military establishments like to use chemical agents in war. ❌
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This is a factual statement mentioned in the passage.
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It does not express the central theme or conclusion.
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Too narrow to be the correct summary.
Final Conclusion
The passage highlights the dangerous shift in modern warfare and expresses concern over the acceptance of chemical agents as tools of war. The author clearly suggests that such practices are unethical and undesirable.
Correct Answer: Option (C)\boxed{\text{Correct Answer: Option (C)}}
Understanding the author’s tone and intent is crucial for solving reading comprehension questions accurately in competitive exams.
