In the question below, a part is omitted which is then replaced by a blank. Choose the word from the given options that will fit into the blank most appropriately.

The researcher’s findings directly challenged the existing scientific __________.

Correct option is C

Sentence given:
The researcher’s findings directly challenged the existing scientific __________.
Step 1: Context clue
· “Directly challenged” suggests going against something established or accepted.
· In science, that is usually the framework, theory, or paradigm.
Step 2: Check options
(a) forums
· Meaning: platforms for discussion (Hindi: मंच).
· “Challenged the existing scientific forums” is awkward.
· Incorrect.
(b) context
· Meaning: circumstances or background (Hindi: संदर्भ).
· “Challenged the existing scientific context” sounds unnatural.
· Incorrect.
(c) framework
· Meaning: a structured system of rules, ideas, or beliefs (Hindi: ढांचा, संरचना).
· Example: The theory provided a framework for further studies.
· Fits perfectly: “challenged the existing scientific framework.”
· Correct.
(d) dispute
· Meaning: conflict, argument (Hindi: विवाद).
· “Existing scientific dispute” is odd — disputes are arguments, not structures.
· Incorrect.
(e) featured
· Meaning: highlighted or shown (Hindi: विशेष रुप से प्रस्तुत).
· Doesn’t fit grammatically or contextually.
· Incorrect.
Step 3: Correct sentence
The researcher’s findings directly challenged the existing scientific framework.
Correct Answer: (c) framework