Correct Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Solution : The correct answer is (a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

The assertion that the National Career Service (NCS) portal provides a platform for job seekers and employers to connect is true. The NCS is a government initiative in India that serves as an online platform to facilitate job seekers and employers to connect with each other. It aims to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers by providing a common platform for interaction and recruitment.

The reason provided is also true and serves as the correct explanation for the assertion. The NCS portal offers various services such as job matching, career counseling, and skill assessment. Job seekers can create their profiles, search for relevant job opportunities, and apply for jobs through the portal. Employers, on the other hand, can post job vacancies, search for suitable candidates, and connect with potential employees. Additionally, the NCS portal provides career counseling services to help individuals make informed career decisions, and skill assessment services to evaluate and showcase their skills to employers. These services offered by NCS contribute to facilitating the connection between job seekers and employers, making it a valuable platform for employment-related activities.