Concept: This question tests your knowledge of the protective layers, or meninges, that surround the brain and spinal cord, specifically their correct anatomical sequence.

Why (D) is correct: The meninges are three protective membranes that enclose the brain and spinal cord. Starting from the innermost layer directly adhering to the brain/spinal cord and moving outwards, the sequence is: Pia mater (innermost, delicate, vascular), Arachnoid mater (middle, web-like, avascular), and Dura mater (outermost, tough, fibrous).

Why other options are wrong:

• (A) Dura mater - Arachnoid - Pia mater: This sequence is from outside to inside, not inside to outside.
• (B) Dura mater - Pia mater - Arachnoid: This sequence is incorrect as the Pia mater is innermost and Arachnoid is in the middle.
• (C) Arachnoid - Dura mater - Pia mater: This sequence is completely jumbled and incorrect.

NEET Tip / Mnemonic: To remember the order from outside to inside, think of DAP (Dura, Arachnoid, Pia). Since the question asks for inside to outside, it's the reverse: PAD (Pia, Arachnoid, Dura).

Correct Answer: (D)