Correct Answer: Buddhist monastic codes (Vinaya)  

Solution :  Buddhist monastic codes (Vinaya) are an important source for studying the history of Buddhism, providing insights into the monastic life and regulations of Buddhist communities.

Correct Answer: Agricultural mismanagement

Solution : A major cause of famine in India during the era of planned development was agricultural mismanagement, which led to inadequate food production and distribution.

Correct Answer: Expansion of commercial agriculture

Solution : The impact of industrialisation on Indian agriculture during the colonial period was the expansion of commercial agriculture, with a focus on crops like cotton and indigo for export to support British industries.

Correct Answer: Industrialization

Solution : The correct answer is (b) industrialization.

The First Five-Year Plan, which was implemented from 1951 to 1956, aimed to promote industrialization as a means to achieve overall economic development in India. The plan recognized the importance of developing a robust industrial sector to address the country's economic challenges and reduce dependence on agriculture.

The First Five-Year Plan emphasized the establishment and expansion of key industries such as steel, coal, machinery, and chemicals. The plan aimed to accelerate the growth of these industries through government intervention, public sector investments, and the creation of industrial infrastructure.

Correct Answer: All of the above

Solution : The correct answer is (D) All of the above

Soil erosion is caused by various factors, and all of the options listed contribute to soil erosion. Here's a brief explanation of each factor:

Overgrazing by livestock: When animals graze on vegetation excessively, it can lead to the removal of vegetation cover, leaving the soil exposed to erosion by wind and water.

Deforestation: Clearing forests without implementing proper soil conservation measures can result in soil erosion. The tree roots that once held the soil in place are removed, and without their presence, the soil becomes vulnerable to erosion by wind and water.

Improper agricultural practices: Certain agricultural practices, such as intensive tillage, leaving fields bare between planting seasons, and inadequate erosion control measures, can accelerate soil erosion. These practices disturb the soil structure and reduce its ability to resist erosion.

Soil erosion is a significant environmental issue with detrimental effects on agricultural productivity, water quality, and ecosystem health. Implementing proper land management practices, including terracing, contour plowing, agroforestry, and maintaining vegetation cover, can help mitigate soil erosion and preserve soil resources.

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."