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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20225 Marks
Q60.

The party was attacked by militants. (petrol / patrol)

How to Approach

This question tests basic English grammar and vocabulary. It's a fill-in-the-blanks type question focusing on the correct usage of commonly confused words – 'petrol' and 'patrol'. The approach should be straightforward: identify the context of the sentence and choose the word that logically fits. The answer should be concise and accurate, demonstrating understanding of the words' meanings. No elaborate explanation is needed, just the correct word.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The question presents a simple sentence with a blank space requiring the correct word to be inserted. Such questions are common in competitive exams to assess a candidate’s grasp of basic language skills. The sentence describes an attack on a party by militants, and the correct word choice will depend on whether the context refers to a fuel or a security measure. Accurate word usage is crucial for clear and effective communication, especially in formal writing like that required in the UPSC examination.

The correct answer is patrol.

Explanation

The sentence, "The party was attacked by militants. (petrol / patrol)" requires a word that describes a security measure. 'Petrol' is a fuel, while 'patrol' refers to the act of regularly walking or riding around an area to maintain security. Given the context of a militant attack, 'patrol' is the logical and grammatically correct choice.

Understanding the Words

  • Petrol: A liquid mixture of hydrocarbons used as fuel in internal combustion engines.
  • Patrol: The act of walking or riding around an area, especially as a guard or police officer.

Therefore, the complete sentence is: "The party was attacked by militants. A patrol was dispatched to secure the area."

Why 'Petrol' is Incorrect

Using 'petrol' in this context would be nonsensical. It would imply the party was attacked *by* fuel, which doesn't align with the meaning of the sentence. The sentence describes a security situation, not a fuel-related incident.

Importance of Context

This question highlights the importance of understanding context in language. Even if one knows the definitions of both words, choosing the correct one requires analyzing the surrounding information and determining the most logical fit. This skill is vital for comprehending complex passages and formulating precise answers in the UPSC Mains examination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct answer is 'patrol' due to its contextual relevance to the sentence describing an attack by militants. The question effectively tests a candidate’s understanding of basic English vocabulary and their ability to apply that knowledge within a given context. Such questions, while seemingly simple, are important for ensuring clarity and precision in written communication.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Militant
A person, group, or organization that advocates or uses violent methods to achieve political or ideological goals.

Key Statistics

According to the Global Terrorism Index 2023, India ranked 13th among countries most impacted by terrorism.

Source: Global Terrorism Index 2023

As of 2023, India has approximately 31 Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and numerous state police forces involved in internal security duties, including patrolling.

Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India (Knowledge cutoff 2024)

Examples

Kashmir Insurgency

The ongoing insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir, involving various militant groups, exemplifies a situation where security patrols are crucial for maintaining order and protecting civilians.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the difference between a militant and a terrorist?

While the terms are often used interchangeably, 'militant' generally refers to someone engaged in armed struggle for a political cause, while 'terrorist' specifically implies the use of violence against civilians to instill fear for political aims. The distinction can be blurry and is often politically charged.

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