Infer the most likely reason that Khetaram was grateful to continue as GDS, even after the age of 60.
Khetaram was most likely grateful to continue as a GDS even after the age of 60 because the job provided him with an assured income, which was essential for his family's survival.
Living in an arid land where famine (Akaal) is a way of life, his single crop of bajra in a good year was insufficient to feed his family of five. He explicitly stated that they would starve without this job.
Therefore, continuing his service allowed him to secure a steady livelihood and prevent his family from facing hunger and extreme poverty in such harsh living conditions.
Explanation
The question asks for an inference regarding Khetaram's gratitude for continuing his job past 60. The text highlights that GDS positions are allowed to continue till 65 specifically to provide an 'assured income'. For Khetaram, this income is a lifeline; his farming yields are inadequate due to frequent famines, and he admits his family would starve without the GDS salary. Thus, the assured income is the primary reason for his gratitude.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify the specific provision allowing GDS to work past 60, which is to provide an 'assured income'.
Step 2: Connect this to Khetaram's personal situation: his land is arid, famine is common, and his crop cannot feed his family.
Step 3: Synthesize the inference: Khetaram is grateful because the job prevents his family from starving, making the assured income his primary reason for gratitude.