Read the passage carefully and answer the question given below by selecting the correct option:
On September 30, 2001, I (Dr APJ Abdul Kalam) found myself on a journey from Ranchi to Bokaro in Jharkhand. The helicopter carrying me crashed just before landing, its engine failing with a thud upon impact. Miraculously, all on board escaped unharmed. Grateful to God, I proceeded with my scheduled programme in Bokaro, unfazed by the incident. That night, doctors suggested a tranquilliser to ease perceived shock, leading to an early and disturbed sleep, filled with contemplation.
Amidst this intense dream, I stood in a moonlit desert with five revered figures: Mahatma Gandhi, Albert Einstein, Emperor Asoka, Abraham Lincoln, and Caliph Omar. Asoka's reflection on the Kalinga war symbolised a shift from conquest to compassion, inspiring a doctrine of non-violence, Ahimsa Dharma.
In this profound dream-conversation, these figures shared wisdom on humanity's deep divisions caused by violence. They emphasised peace, equality, and the significance of ethical values in human consciousness. Asoka, having witnessed the consequences of his victories, highlighted the futility of causing suffering and the triumph of a peaceful kingdom.
Awakening from this vivid dream, I contemplated the contrasting forces of good and destruction in the world. The challenges faced by humanity, from conflicts to natural disasters and terrorism, prompted deep reflection. Yet, despite these challenges, I held a determined belief in finding an everlasting solution.
Motivated by this dream and a desire to contribute to the greater good, I made a significant decision. Shifting focus from my scientific career, awards, and teams, I aimed to discover India's true essence in its children. This marked a transcendence of personal achievements, emphasising the importance of nurturing enlightened individuals and fostering the inner, higher self in the youth. My commitment was to contribute to the enduring intelligence of India through meaningful interaction with joyous, young minds.
APJ Abdul Kalam 'Ignited Minds'
What event prompted the author's contemplation in the passage?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → The helicopter crash
The chain of events begins with the helicopter crash near Bokaro. Because of the shock of the crash, the doctors suggested a tranquilliser that night, which led to an early and disturbed sleep "filled with contemplation" and the dream. The crash is the event at the root of his thinking.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: Meeting the revered figures — Incorrect. Result, not cause: he met the five figures inside the dream, which itself came after the crash; the meeting was part of the contemplation, not what set it off.
Option 3: The scheduled programme in Bokaro — Incorrect. Wrong cause: he went ahead with the programme "unfazed by the incident"; the programme did not lead to his reflection.
Option 4: Doctors' suggestions for a tranquilliser — Incorrect. Result, not cause: the tranquilliser was given to ease the shock of the crash; it is a result of the crash, not the event that prompted his thinking.