Reading Comprehension

SSC CGL Tier II English. Try each one first, then open its answer.

Top 10 SSC CGL Tier II PYQs to practise first

The questions and kinds of question asked most often come first. Each one says how often and in which papers.

Question 1 (case study, 5 parts)
Asked once: 18 Jan 2026 Tier II
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: The Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Act (VB-GRAM G), 2025, has been replaced by the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). The goal of this modification is to improve Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which protects the right to life. MGNREGA has improved socioeconomic conditions by facilitating wage payments, providing unemployment benefits, and promoting equal earnings. There has been sustainable development, and research has confirmed the impact of this program to raise earnings, alleviate poverty, and encourage school enrollment. In the past five years, women have comprised 58% of the workforce, significantly contributing to rural development, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given these factors, it is important to assess both the benefits and current challenges of the system. Despite MGNREGA’s successes, the program has faced implementation challenges, mainly due to inadequate funding, as acknowledged by the Ministry of Finance. Delays in wage payments and fewer work opportunities have resulted from this lack of funds. Recent rules, such as introducing an attendance application that uses photos, have created new problems and made corruption easier. Due to these issues, the VB-GRAM G Act has introduced important changes, including sections 5(1) and 4(5), which give the Union Government greater control over the public works program.
91 $What might be the author’s overall purpose for discussing the development from MGNREGA to the VB-GRAM G Act?$
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92 $The author’s tone regarding new rules (e.g., photo-based attendance) is best described as?$
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93 $What can be reasonably inferred about the relationship between women's participation and rural resilience during the pandemic?$
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94 $What does the author’s discussion of lack of funding primarily indicate?$
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95 $What does “sustainable development” mean most nearly in the context of the passage?$
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Question 2 (case study, 5 parts)
Asked once: 18 Jan 2026 Tier II
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a classic known for its humor and complex characters. The famous first sentence of the book, "It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife," begins to set up all of the major themes of money, status, and marrying well that are prevalent in 19th-century England. The Bennet family, particularly Elizabeth Bennet, a smart and strong-willed heroine, is the subject of Austen’s commentary on the societal imperative for women to marry well and thereby have a stable income. The title itself is quite meaningful, as it first indicates the character flaws that drive much of the conflict in this novel, namely Darcy’s pride and Elizabeth’s prejudice. In fact, Mr. Fitzwilliam Darcy, being a rich and high-ranking person, first of all shows a haughty character, thereby being very superior by virtue of his class. Elizabeth, having been offended by his initial lack of warmth, as well as having been misled by the deceiving Mr. Wickham, very quickly showed prejudice against him. Traces the story of each as they navigate these weaknesses. Darcy needs to lower his pride to appreciate the value of Elizabeth’s inferior standing, though she must see the strength of his superior qualities. Austen employs irony and satire liberally to point out the absurdities of the class structure. Personages like the obsequious Mr. Collins and the imperious Lady Catherine de Bourgh symbolize the hard and silly aspects of class consciousness. The sojourn at Darcy’s grand estate, Pemberley, is an important defining instance in which the splendor of the property and the favorable reports of his servants compel Elizabeth to revise her earlier opinion and realize the truth of Darcy’s goodness. In the final analysis, the novel promotes love marriages, couples like Jane and Bingley, and Elizabeth and Darcy, who have successful marriages because of love, in contrast to couples who marry for convenience (Charlotte Collins and Mr. Collins) or those who are full of passion but irresponsible (Lydia and Wickham).
86 $What are the major themes expressed by the first line of the novel?$
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87 $Which defects in character does the name "Pride and Prejudice" primarily refer to?$
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88 $How is the character of Lady Catherine de Bourgh employed in the novel as a criticism of society?$
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89 $What is the key event that marks a turning point in making Elizabeth change her view of Darcy?$
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90 $What kind of marriage does Jane Austen appear to prize the most, according to the conclusion of the novel?$
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Question 3 (case study, 5 parts)
Asked once: 18 Jan 2026 Tier II
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage: "Bank failures raise serious concerns about supervisory oversight." The case studies of Credit Suisse and Silicon Valley Bank highlight the deficiencies in supervisory supervision. In many instances, supervisors are hesitant to come into conflict with bank management when weaknesses are identified, preferring to do nothing rather than take corrective action at a point in time when key issues are building into a problem. Regulators must adopt an attitude change in which they place more emphasis on the results rather than the details. Overemphasis on trivial matters might lead regulators to overlook more fundamental issues, such as whether financial institutions have adequate capital in case of a shock. Regulating requirements must be simplified. Complex regulation requirements in relation to capital may overlook systemic risk in their approaches when stress tests result in activities gravitating towards less heavily regulated institutions in the non-bank sector. Improved supervisory and bank communications would promote better supervision as a tool for managing risk. Recommendations include being up front about supervisory goals, openness to change within the bank organization, and increased transparency in supervisory contracts as a way of promoting swift problem resolution. These would aid shareholders as well as the overall economy. In conclusion, rather than pursuing a micro-management strategy, a move towards a clearly defined regulation that supports positive incentives is what is needed to ensure that banks behave within frameworks that promote financial stability.
96 $Which of the following is most true in regard to stating the structure of logic found in the author’s conclusion?$
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97 $The use of "stress tests" by the author is an example of illustrating which of the following consequences?$
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98 $Why are supervisors often slow to act when banks have problems?$
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99 $What would "positive incentives" do for the banking system?$
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100 $The tone with which the author approaches the current situation of "complex regulation" is best described as:$
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Question 4 (case study, 4 parts)
Asked once: 20 Jan 2025 Tier II
Comprehension: Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow. Reading is an important communication skill that has many benefits and it has great impact on a person's life. We should develop a reading habit as it allows us to learn new information and gives us access to a wide range of opportunities and ideas. So, reading regularly not only broadens our aspect and knowledge but also improves our intelligence, perspective, judgement and understanding of the world. It helps to stimulate creativity and imagination, to relieve the stress and pressure, and to provide a source of entertainment. The major benefit of reading is to develop the analytical and critical skills of a reader. The former involves gathering information and breaking it down into parts for better understanding, while the latter involves evaluating the same information and making judgments based on evidence. Reading a book or any content improves our language and vocabulary, so we can easily comprehend the words and their use in the context. It also helps in cognitive development in young children so at the primary level, children are more involved in reading rather than writing.
98 $Which skill is used by a reader when he evaluates the same information and makes judgments based on evidence?$
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99 $Cognitive development in a child is related to:$
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100 $According to the passage, what is the role of reading?$
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101 $Which skill is used by a reader when he gathers information and breaks it down in a logical pattern to solve a problem?$
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Question 5 (case study, 4 parts)
Asked once: 20 Jan 2025 Tier II
Comprehension: Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow. Engaging in regular physical activity is not only beneficial for physical well-being but also has a profound impact on mental health. Studies have shown that exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Additionally, consistent exercise has been linked to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Contrary to common misconceptions, it doesn't require intense workouts; even moderate activities like walking or yoga can contribute to improved mental well-being. Making exercise a regular part of one's routine not only supports physical fitness but also nurtures a positive and resilient mindset.
102 $Select the most appropriate title for the given passage.$
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103 $Select the option that provides an accurate summary of the main points discussed in the passage.$
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104 $Determine the tone of the passage by choosing the option that reflects the overall emotional quality of the writing.$
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105 $Which of the following is a fact mentioned in the passage?$
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Question 6 (case study, 4 parts)
Asked once: 20 Jan 2025 Tier II
Comprehension: Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow. The extraction of indigo dye involves harvesting the small, green leaves of the Indigofera plant before its flowers bloom. These leaves undergo a process of soaking in water and churning until a navy blue froth is released. The upper portion of the resulting mixture is drained for irrigation, while the leaves are repurposed as fertilizer. After allowing the water and fine sediment to settle for a day, the liquid is separated from the sediment. The obtained deep blue paste is then subjected to filtration to remove dirt and impurities, followed by compression into cakes and drying for several days. Once dried, the indigo is ready for use as a dye. Lime ( $\text{Ca(OH)}_2$ ) can be added to the initial water and leaves mixture, and various natural sugars can be dissolved into the paste to enhance the extraction process.
94 $What is the overall tone of the passage?$
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95 $What is the central theme of the passage describing the extraction process of indigo dye from the Indigofera plant?$
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96 $Select the most appropriate synonym of the word 'impurities' from the options given below.$
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97 $In the extraction process described, what is the purpose of allowing the water and fine sediment at the bottom of the tank to settle for a day?$
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Question 7 (case study, 4 parts)
Asked once: 18 Jan 2025 Tier II
Comprehension: Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow. Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent Indian nationalist leader, was convinced that India could not achieve independence without the use of force, and he believed that a military campaign was necessary to achieve this goal. In 1942, Bose formed the Indian National Army (INA) with the help of the Japanese. Bose travelled to Japan in 1941 to seek their support in the struggle against British rule in India. The Japanese were interested in having Bose’s help in their own efforts to expand their influence in Southeast Asia. Bose’s vision was to create a military force to fight against the British in India with the help of Japanese weapons and training. The INA was formed in Singapore in September 1942 with the slogan ‘Jai Hind’ (Victory to India). The INA consisted of soldiers who were primarily from the Indian community in Southeast Asia. They were trained by Japanese officers and were equipped with Japanese weapons. The INA fought alongside Japanese forces in Burma and other parts of Southeast Asia during World War II. Bose’s leadership of the INA and his military campaigns against the British in India made him a popular figure among many Indians. The consequences of the formation of the INA were significant. The INA’s campaigns against the British in India and the Indian soldiers’ role in the Burma campaign had a psychological impact on the British forces. The British were shocked that Indian soldiers had turned against them, undermining their confidence in maintaining control over India. The INA also had a significant impact on the Indian independence movement. Bose’s vision of a socialist India with equal rights for all citizens inspired many Indians. The INA became a symbol of the struggle against British colonialism, and Bose’s slogan of ‘Jai Hind’ became a rallying cry for the independence movement. However, the INA’s military campaigns were not successful in achieving their goal of freeing India from British rule. The INA suffered significant losses in battles, and their efforts were undermined by the Japanese surrender in 1945.
102 $What ultimately undermined the INA’s efforts to free India from British rule?$
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103 $How did Subhas Chandra Bose view India’s fight for independence?$
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104 $What was the primary reason for the Japanese to support Subhas Chandra Bose and the formation of the INA?$
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105 $What was the significance of Bose’s slogan ‘Jai Hind’?$
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Question 8 (case study, 4 parts)
Asked once: 18 Jan 2025 Tier II
Comprehension: Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow. Algae are photosynthetic creatures that have pigments that aid in photosynthesis, such as chlorophyll. They do not, however, have the actual stems, roots or leaves found in vascular plants. While some of them have many cells, others are unicellular. They might establish colonies as well. The majority of algae are aquatic. Some are terrestrial, and they can be found on rocks, trees and moist soil. Certain algae species coexist well with other living things. For instance, lichens are a symbiotic relationship between green (and often blue-green) algae and fungi. Algae are members of a multiphyletic group. This indicates that there is no common ancestor and that the species in this category are not necessarily closely related. They do not have other morphoanatomical characteristics typical of vascular plants, but they do have one thing in common: they are eukaryotes with the principal pigment being chlorophyll, which allows them to perform photosynthesis. Phycology is the scientific name for the study of algae. The blue-green algae is one example of a reference. But some sources do not classify them as algae because they are prokaryotes.
98 $According to the passage, which is the main pigment in algae for photosynthesis?$
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99 $What is the central theme of the passage?$
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100 $Which statement accurately describes vascular plants based on the information in the passage?$
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101 $What does the term 'multiphyletic group' mean in the context of algae?$
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Question 9 (case study, 4 parts)
Asked once: 26 Oct 2023 Tier II
Comprehension: Read the given passage and answer the question that follows. On woody plants known as vines, luscious, smooth-skinned berries called grapes grow in dense clusters. In particular, grapes are grown in France, Italy, Spain, Australia, Chile, Romania, Georgia, South Africa and California, all of which have warm summers and moderate winters. Table grapes are larger and sweeter grapes that are intended for fresh consumption. To create wine, 80% of the grapes are crushed. The fermentation process turns grapes into wine. To make raisins, grapes must also be dried. Grapes ripen in the area of California in August. They are cut from the vines and left on trays to dry for two to three weeks. So, to transform them into raisins, they are further cooked and steeped in particular treatments. According to studies, one acre of grapes can make roughly 15,000 glasses of wine on average. Grapes of the Thompson, Flame, Ruby, Perlette and Tokay varieties are popular.
102 $What does the fermentation process do?$
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103 $Based on your reading of the passage, select the most appropriate word which best describes ‘luscious’.$
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104 $In which region do grapes ripen in August?$
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105 $Select the most appropriate title for the passage.$
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Question 10 (case study, 4 parts)
Asked once: 26 Oct 2023 Tier II
Comprehension: Read the given passage carefully and answer the question that follows. The discovery of a new bird species has sparked excitement among ornithologists and bird enthusiasts worldwide. The bird, named the Sapphire-winged Warbler, discovered in a remote tropical island's rainforests, is a unique bird with vibrant blue feathers and a distinctive melodic song. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts have been flocking to the island in hopes of catching a glimpse of this elusive and captivating creature. The discovery of the Sapphire-winged Warbler highlights the importance of preserving and protecting habitats. Amidst the excitement surrounding the discovery of the Sapphire-winged Warbler, researchers have embarked on a mission to uncover the bird's migratory patterns. Equipped with satellite tracking devices, they aim to trace the remarkable journey of this species across vast distances. By unravelling its migratory routes and stopover locations, scientists hope to gain insight into the challenges the Sapphire-winged Warbler faces during its arduous travels. The local community on the tropical island has embraced the newfound avian resident with great enthusiasm. Efforts are underway to raise awareness about the importance of conservation and to create protected areas that ensure the continued existence of this exquisite species.
98 $Select the most appropriate title for the given passage.$
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99 $Which statement best reflects a fact mentioned in the given passage?$
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100 $Identify the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word ‘stare’ from the passage.$
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101 $Based on the given passage, which of the following inferences can be made?$
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Reading Comprehension

Top 10 SSC CGL Tier II PYQs to practise first

Question 1 (case study, 5 parts)

Question 2 (case study, 5 parts)

Question 3 (case study, 5 parts)

Question 4 (case study, 4 parts)

Question 5 (case study, 4 parts)

Question 6 (case study, 4 parts)

Question 7 (case study, 4 parts)

Question 8 (case study, 4 parts)

Question 9 (case study, 4 parts)

Question 10 (case study, 4 parts)