In the following questions, a part of the sentence may require improvement. Choose the most appropriate option to improve the highlighted part of the sentence. If no improvement is required, choose the option accordingly. A large number of exam attempts are only benefiting the coaching industry, wasting the resources of the UPSC and also providing invaluable support on the candidates.

The sentence presents a negative criticism regarding: Excessive exam attempts, Wastage of resources, Harmful impact on candidates. Thus, the highlighted phrase should convey: → causing damage or hardship to candidates. “Providing invaluable support on the candidates” is grammatically and contextually incorrect because: “support on” is wrong usage, The overall sentence tone is negative, not supportive. “Taking a heavy toll” means: → causing serious emotional, physical, or mental strain. This perfectly matches the sentence context. Why others fail: Easing the burden → opposite meaning Imparting valuable knowledge → positive meaning Extending strategic assistance → irrelevant tone Hence, option (d).