Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
In the absence of the Principal, the Vice-Principal ______ for him.

Correct option is C

The correct option to fill in the blank is (c) officiates.
Explanation: “Officiate” means to carry out an official duty or to function in a formal role, especially temporarily. In this context, the Vice-Principal temporarily performs the duties of the Principal.
(Hindi meaning of 'officiate'): कार्यभार संभालना, औपचारिक रूप से कार्य करना
Example: The Vice-President officiated in the absence of the President.
Why other options are incorrect:
· (a) deputes – Means to assign someone else; incorrect subject-object relation. (प्रतिनिधित्व करना)
· (b) exchanges – Means swap or trade; illogical here. (बदलना)
· (d) replaces – Permanent substitution; here it is only temporary. (बदल देना)