CAT 2023 Question Paper | VARC Slot 3

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Question 18 : There is a sentence that is missing in the paragraph below. Look at the paragraph and decide where (option 1, 2, 3, or 4) the following sentence would best fit.

Sentence: Beyond undermining the monopoly of the State on the use of force, armed conflict also creates an environment that can enable organized crime to prosper.

Paragraph: ___(1)___. Linkages between illicit arms, organized crime, and armed conflict can reinforce one another while also escalating and prolonging violence and eroding governance.___(2)___. Financial gains from crime can lengthen or intensify armed conflicts by creating revenue streams for non-State armed groups (NSAGs).___(3)___. In this context, when hostilities cease and parties to a conflict move towards a peaceful resolution, the widespread availability of surplus arms and ammunition can contribute to a situation of 'criminalized peace' that obstructs sustainable peacebuilding efforts.___(4)___.

Explanatory Answer

The given sentence starts with 'beyond undermining the monopoly of the State on the use of force'. So, the sentence before it must relate to this point. We see that the sentence before option 3 talks about non-State armed groups. So, option 3 is the best place to fit in the given sentence.

The answer is 'Option 3'

Choice D is the correct answer.