Select the correct option: Even though the phenomenon is uncommon, it may still occur _________ prolonged drought conditions.

The correct option to fill in the blank is (d) under. Reason (idiomatic usage): With the noun "conditions," English most naturally uses "under" to show a prevailing/controlling situation. Hence, the correct phrase is "occur under prolonged drought conditions." (Hindi meaning of "under" here: परिस्थितियों में / के अधीन) Example: Many wildfires spread rapidly under prolonged drought conditions. Why the other options are incorrect: (a) towards = shows direction/tendency, not a situational environment. (Hindi: की ओर) (b) amidst means "in the middle of," typically used with events/circumstances like chaos, conflict, applause; with "conditions," exam usage prefers under. (Hindi: के बीच) (c) between = used for two distinct people/things/points; it cannot fit with the general phrase "drought conditions." (Hindi: के बीच)