Read the passage and answer the question:

Mikhail Gorbachev took on the role of General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union in 1985 and embarked on a series of transformative endeavors. His leadership aimed at modernizing the Soviet system and fostering improved relations with Western nations. Gorbachev also championed efforts to infuse democratic principles and reforms into the Soviet Union's framework. Notable among his reforms were the introduction of the economic and political restructuring policies known as 'Perestroika' and 'glasnost'. He worked to de-escalate the arms race with the United States, exemplified by his willingness to engage in agreements controlling nuclear weaponry. Another significant move was the withdrawal of Soviet forces from Afghanistan and Eastern Europe, signaling a shift towards diplomacy and cooperation. Gorbachev's instrumental role in facilitating the reunification of Germany underscored his commitment to diplomatic solutions. However, his legacy is marked by the criticism that attributes the disintegration of the Soviet Union to his leadership.

Which statement is correct regarding Mikhail Gorbachev's leadership?

Gorbachev played a key role in facilitating the reunification of Germany.

The correct answer is Option 4 - Gorbachev played a key role in facilitating the reunification of Germany.

Option 1- Gorbachev's reforms aimed to maintain the traditional Soviet system. (Incorrect). His reforms challenged, not preserved, the traditional Soviet system.
Option 2- He escalated the arms race with the United States. (Incorrect). Gorbachev de-escalated the arms race with USA.
Option 3- 'Perestroika' and 'glasnost' were policies that aimed to maintain the status quo. (Incorrect). 'Perestroika' (restructuring) and 'Glasnost' (openness) aimed to reform, not maintain, the status quo.
Option 4- Gorbachev played a key role in facilitating the reunification of Germany. (CORRECT)

NCERT: Mikhail Gorbachev (Born 1931):  Last leader of the Soviet Union (1985 91); introduced economic and political reform policies of perestroika (restructuring) and glasnost (openness); stopped the arms race with the US; withdrew Soviet troops from Afghanistan and eastern Europe; helped in the unification of Germany; ended the Cold War; blamed for the disintegration of the Soviet Union. "