21. Based on the above passage, the following assumptions have been made : 1. For effective school education, parents have greater role than the governments. 2. School curriculum that conforms to today’s requirements and is uniform for the entire country may address the issues brought out. Which of the assumptions given above is/are valid?

1. A. 1 only
2. B. 2 only
3. C. Both 1 and 2
4. D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: D

Explanation

The passage describes the academic deficiencies of Class 8 students and the mismatch between their aspirations and actual competencies. Assumption 1 is invalid because the passage mentions parents’ expectations but does not compare their role to that of the government in effective school education. It focuses on the *outcome* of the education system, not the *causes* related to parental or governmental roles. Assumption 2 is also invalid. The passage highlights a gap between academic competencies and curricular expectations but does not discuss the nature of the curriculum (uniformity or relevance) as a cause or solution. Assuming a uniform curriculum would address the issues goes beyond the scope of the passage. Therefore, neither assumption is valid based solely on the information provided. This question tests the ability to stick strictly to the text for assumptions.