Multiple choice

Choose the correct option and fill blank (iii).

Directions: The following passage has some blanks, each of which has been numbered.  

Since independence and from the beginning of our planned development, we have ____(i)____ increased production as ____(ii)____ to improved distribution of income. A high rate of growth of the gross national product by itself does not serve our purpose ____(iii)____ it is more equitably shared, benefiting all sections of the population. To be effective, increased production with better distribution depends largely ____(iv)____ to assess the productivity of the small man, whether he is ____(v)____ in agriculture or industry. In agriculture, the most critical inputs are water and credit ____(vi)____ with cultivable land. Our land reform legislation has aimed ____(vii)____ land to small owners. There are sometimes political obstacles; but it is not known generally how many cases are ____(viii)____ in courts. We must atleast ensure that small owners have access to other essential inputs. In industry, we have ____(ix)____ small scale and cottage industries. Greater availability of power along with assured market and credit arrangements can make ____(x)____ difference to productivity.

  1. if

  2. until

  3. till

  4. unless

  5. either

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The correct answer is D. The sentence states: 'A high rate of growth of the gross national product by itself does not serve our purpose ____ it is more equitably shared.' This requires a negative conditional word - economic growth doesn't serve the purpose UNLESS it's equitably shared. 'If' would change the meaning to require equitable sharing for benefit, but 'unless' correctly indicates that equitable sharing is a necessary condition. 'Until' and 'till' are temporal, not logical connectors.