Which of the following words best fits blank (A)? In the following passage there are blanks, each of which has been denoted by a letter. For each blank, five options are given. Choose the most appropriate word from the options that fits the blank appropriately. The cow has always held a ______(A) place in Indian society, revered© Copyright not onlyAdda247 2026 for its religious significance but also for its immense contribution to rural livelihoods. Farmers across the country have long been ______(B) on cattle for milk, manure, and draught power, making the cow an www.freshersnow.com inseparable part of agricultural life. The dairy industry, which has grown ______(C) over the decades, now stands as one of the largest in the world, providing employment to millions of households. Government schemes have been launched to ______(D) the welfare of cattle and improve the quality of indigenous breeds through scientific intervention. Despite rapid urbanisation, the bond between rural communities and their cattle remains deeply ______(E), reflecting a way of life that has endured for centuries.

Explanation

Let’s analyze blank (A) carefully. Sentence: “The cow has always held a ______ place in Indian society, revered not only for its religious significance…” The word should reflect respect, reverence, and cultural importance. Correct answer: (b) sacred Now meanings, examples, and why each option fits/doesn’t: (a) hollow Meaning (English): Empty, without real value or substance Meaning (Hindi): खोखला, बिना सार का Example: His promise turned out to be hollow. Why incorrect: The sentence talks about reverence and importance, while “hollow” suggests lack of value, which is opposite in meaning. (b) sacred Meaning (English): Holy, worthy of religious respect Meaning (Hindi): पवित्र, धार्मिक रूप से सम्मानित Example: The river is considered sacred by the locals. Why correct: The sentence mentions “religious significance” and reverence, so “sacred” perfectly conveys deep respect and holiness associated with the cow in Indian society. (c) fading Meaning (English): Gradually losing strength, importance, or visibility Meaning (Hindi): धुंधला पड़ता हुआ, कम होता हुआ Example: His memories of childhood are fading. Why incorrect: The sentence describes a long-standing and continuing importance, not something decreasing over time. (d) casual Meaning (English): Relaxed, not serious or formal Meaning (Hindi): अनौपचारिक, साधारण Example: He wore casual clothes to the party. Why incorrect: “Casual” does not fit the tone of reverence and respect required in the sentence. (e) disputed Meaning (English): Argued about, not agreed upon Meaning (Hindi): विवादित Example: The ownership of the land is disputed. Why incorrect: The sentence suggests widespread acceptance and respect, not disagreement or controversy. Final takeaway: The context clearly demands a word indicating religious respect and cultural reverence, making “sacred” the most appropriate choice.