In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank. India remains one of the most ethnically diverse countries in the world. (1)______ from its many religions and sects, India (2)______ home to innumerable castes and tribes, as well (3)______ to more than a dozen major and (4)______ of minor linguistic groups from (5)______ language families unrelated to one another. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4.

Explanation

The correct answer is 'Hundreds'. Key Points The given sentence 'to more than a dozen major and (4)______ of minor linguistic groups from..' needs an appropriates word from the given options : Let's look at the meaning of the given words : Hundreds: a large but unspecified number, amount, or quantity. Loads: plenty, a lot. Sufficient : enough for a particular purpose. Ample : fully sufficient or more than adequate for the purpose or needs From the given meanings, it is clear that the marked option 'hundreds' which is used to denote a large but unspecified number, amount or quantity is the best fit in the blank number four and it is the most appropriate option. Thus, the correct answer is option 1.