Correct Answer: denser

Solution : The correct choice is the third option.

The word denser is the comparative form of the adjective dense. 

In this sentence, we're comparing the state of the locust population at one point to a later point, when it has increased. The comparative form is used to show this increase in density.

Therefore, the right word to fill in the blank is denser.

Correct Answer: A shift from payment in cash to payment in kind (grain).

Solution : The correct option is A shift from payment in cash to payment in kind (grain).

A shift from payment in cash to payment in kind, such as grain, can have implications for various sectors, including agriculture and the economy. But it did not impact the Green Revolution.

The Green Revolution refers to a series of research, development, and technology transfer initiatives that took place between the 1940s and the late 1960s, mainly in developing countries. It aimed to increase food production through the adoption of new agricultural technologies, such as high-yielding varieties of crops, fertilisers, and pesticides.

Correct Answer: Skill development among the urban poor

Solution : The correct answer is (c) Skill development among the urban poor

The NULM was launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India, with the goal of reducing poverty and vulnerability of urban poor households. It focuses on providing shelter and basic services to the urban homeless, skill development for self-employment and wage employment, and organizing urban poor into self-help groups to enhance their capacities and enable them to access financial services. The mission also aims to promote improved delivery of basic services such as water supply, sanitation, and healthcare to the urban poor. While the NULM primarily addresses housing and infrastructure issues in urban areas, it also emphasizes skill development to enhance the employability of the urban poor.

Correct Answer: They led to the growth of surrounding commercial areas  

Solution : The presence of cantonments in colonial India often led to the growth of surrounding commercial areas to cater to the needs of the military personnel and their families, influencing urban development.

Correct Answer: become

Solution : The correct choice is the second option.

The sentence describes the locust, stating that it is usually harmless unless certain circumstances occur. The word become indicates the change in the locusts' status – from being not abundant to becoming more abundant. So, the correct choice is "become," as it fits the context of the sentence, indicating a transformation or change in the locusts' abundance.

Therefore, the complete sentence would be: "These insects are essentially harmless unless they become more abundant and change their behaviour."

Correct Answer: Consolidation of landholdings

Solution : One effect of the East India Company's revenue policies on the rural economy was the consolidation of landholdings, as smaller farmers were often unable to meet the revenue demands and had to sell their land to larger landowners.

Correct Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
 

Solution : The correct answer is a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Horticulture does play a vital role in the export of agricultural products, and the reason for this is that it involves the cultivation of high-value crops that have a significant demand in the international market.

Horticultural crops include fruits, vegetables, flowers, spices, and other specialty crops that are valued for their taste, appearance, fragrance, or medicinal properties. These crops often command higher prices in the international market compared to staple crops.

The cultivation of high-value horticultural crops provides opportunities for export as they cater to the demands of international consumers who seek diverse and exotic produce. Horticultural products are often perishable and require careful handling and transportation to maintain their quality and freshness. As a result, horticulture plays a crucial role in the export of agricultural products.

Many countries, particularly those with favorable climates and suitable growing conditions, have developed a strong horticulture sector to tap into the global market for fresh and processed horticultural produce. These exports contribute significantly to the economy by earning foreign exchange and generating income for farmers and rural communities.

Therefore, the assertion that horticulture plays a vital role in the export of agricultural products is true, and the reason that it involves the cultivation of high-value crops that have a significant demand in the international market is the correct explanation for this assertion.

Correct Answer: Operation Flood - Irrigation Development

Solution : The correct option is - Operation Flood - Irrigation Development.

Operation Flood, which was started in 1970,  assisted dairy farmers in taking ownership of the resources they make. Village milk producers' cooperatives, which purchase milk, offered inputs and services, and gave members access to management and technology, this formed the foundation of Operation Flood.The goals of Operation Flood included - Boost production of milk ("a flood of milk"),  to increase rural incomes and affordable costs for customers. 

Correct Answer: Enhancing rural economic development

Solution : The correct answer is (c) Enhancing rural economic development

By providing support to the cooperative society in the rural area, the government aims to enhance rural economic development. This support includes financing and training, which can contribute to the sustainability and prosperity of agricultural activities in the rural community. The goal is to strengthen the economic foundation of rural areas and improve the livelihoods of the residents.

Correct Answer: Agricultural Sector

Solution : The correct answer is the Agriculture sector.

The agriculture sector was the focus of the first five-year plan. This plan was launched in 1951 and was focused on the primary sector. This plan was based on the Harrod-Domar model with a few modifications. The plan promoted the idea of a self-reliant, closed economy. This plan was executed and monitored by the Planning Commission.