Assertion (A): The Western news agencies like Reuters have shifted their focus to specialized areas of news collection. Reason (R): Since the American news agencies are dominant, they are left with very little option. Codes: (A) Both (A) and (R) are true. (B) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). (C) (A) is true, but (R) is false. (D) (A) is false, but (R) is true. Correct Ans: (B) Explanation: Assertion (A) states that Western news agencies, such as Reuters, have started focusing on specialized news areas. This statement is true because many global agencies now emphasize financial, business, and technology news. Instead of covering general events, they concentrate on niche markets like stock exchanges, corporate affairs, and geopolitical analysis to cater to a targeted audience. However, Reason (R) claims that this shift happened due to American news agencies' dominance, leaving Western agencies with limited choices. While it is partially true that American agencies like AP (Associated Press) and Bloomberg dominate the global news market, Reuters and other Western agencies have strategically adapted to changing industry demands rather than being forced into specialization. Thus, both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) does not directly explain (A). The shift towards specialization is a deliberate business strategy rather than a mere reaction to American dominance. Therefore, the correct answer is (B): Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).