Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
The inclusion of Durga Puja in the UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage was only possible due to the arduous ________ of all stakeholders.

The correct word to fill in the blank is "efforts".
Explanation:
· The sentence suggests that Durga Puja was included in UNESCO's list because of hard work by all stakeholders.
· "Efforts" (noun) correctly fits the context.
Grammatical rule used:
· "Arduous" (adjective) must be followed by a noun that describes hard work.
· "Efforts" means attempts, hard work, struggle, which fits perfectly.
Example:
· His efforts in the project led to its success.
Meanings of other options:
· Passivity: Lack of action or involvement (opposite of hard work).
· Affects: Verb, not a noun, incorrect.
· Ignorance: Lack of knowledge, incorrect meaning.