Question

Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow.

The journey from Bibha Chowdhuri’s era to today’s women scientists has been long and arduous, but it is also inspiring. The struggles Chowdhuri faced are a stark reminder of how far we’ve come—and how much further we have to go. But with every cosmic achievement—be it landing on the moon or reaching Mars—these women prove that the journey is well worth it. Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on. Her story continues to inspire young women to pursue their passions, break barriers, and leave their mark on the world. As the stars of Indian science shine brighter, Bibha Chowdhuri, the beacon–‘beam of light,’ will always guide the way.

(i) What can be inferred about the challenges faced by women scientists today, as compared to Bibha Chowdhuri’s era?

1. Women scientists no longer face any barriers.
2. The challenges remain, but progress has been made.
3. The struggles have become more difficult over time.
4. The struggles are the same as they were for Chowdhuri.

(ii) The phrase ‘Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on’ suggests that ______.

(iii) Why is Bibha Chowdhuri referred to as a ‘beacon’ and a ‘beam of light’ in the extract?

(iv) State whether the following sentence is a fact or an opinion.

Bibha Chowdhuri was the beacon, the ‘beam of light’ whose story continues to inspire young women.

Answer 1

(i) The challenges remain, but progress has been made.

(ii) The phrase ‘Bibha Chowdhuri’s legacy lives on’ suggests that her achievements and struggles continue to inspire future generations, especially young women in science.

(iii) Bibha Chowdhuri is referred to as a ‘beacon’ and a ‘beam of light’ because she showed the way for other women to enter science, overcome barriers, and follow their ambitions.

(iv) Opinion