Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
_________ in population is a hindrance to a country’s growth.

Correct option is D

The correct option to fill in the blank is (d) increase.
Explanation:
The sentence: "_______ in population is a hindrance to a country’s growth" implies a negative impact. Increase is the most suitable word because population rise causes strain on resources.

(Hindi: जनसंख्या में वृद्धि विकास में बाधा है।)

Example:
An increase in population is one of the biggest challenges faced by developing countries.

Incorrect options:
· (a) Contract – To shrink or reduce in size (सिकुड़ना); opposite in meaning.
· (b) Decrease – Means reduction (घटाव), which may not always hinder growth.
· (c) Reduce – Verb form; grammatically incorrect in this noun-based construction.

Information Booster:
In noun clauses, the subject should match the verb form and the part of speech expected. Here, “Increase” as a noun fits naturally with “is a hindrance.”