Fill in the blank with the appropriate word.
Caffeine can ____________ a mild form of drug dependence – associated with withdrawal symptoms such as sleepiness, headache, and irritability – when an individual stops using caffeine after repeated daily intake.

Correct option is C

The correct option is (c).

Explanation:

• The sentence explains that caffeine can cause/create a mild dependence that leads to withdrawal symptoms.
• Produce means to cause or bring about, which fits the context correctly.

Correct answer word – Produce:

• Meaning: To cause; to generate. (Hindi meaning: उत्पन्न करना)
• Example: Excess stress can produce headaches and fatigue.

Meanings of other options:

• (a) Destroy – To ruin completely (नष्ट करना); opposite of the required meaning.
• (b) Delay – To postpone (देरी करना); does not fit.
• (d) Reckon – To think/estimate (समझना/आकलन करना); not suitable here.

So the correct answer is (c)