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UPSC Prelims 2024CSATReading ComprehensionEducation System Challenges

Q22. 22.

Which one of the following statements best reflects the central idea conveyed by the passage?

A. Total eradication of poverty in the country will resolve the issue of under-performance of our school-children.
B. Monetary incentives to parents and teachers is a strategy to improve the children’s academic performance.
C. Public policy should ensure that competencies and achievements of young people are aligned with their expectations.✓ Correct
D. India is not going to take advantage of the demographic dividend unless some school pass-outs go back to agriculture.

Detailed Solution

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

The central idea of the passage revolves around the significant gap between the academic competencies of Class 8 students and their aspirations for higher education and non-agricultural careers. The passage states that 'abilities in terms of academic competencies are far lower than they should be' and that 'Parents and children expect that such ‘graduates’ from school will go on to high school and college.' This highlights a critical misalignment.

Therefore, the most logical central idea is that public policy needs to address this gap, ensuring that the skills and achievements of young people match their expectations for future life and work. Options A and B introduce solutions (poverty eradication, monetary incentives) not discussed.

Option D misinterprets the passage's point about agriculture; the passage notes the *unwillingness* to return to agriculture, not that it's a necessary solution for demographic dividend. This question requires identifying the main argument or concern presented by the author.

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