Step 1: Concept Optical fibres work on the principle of Total Internal Reflection (TIR).
Step 2: Meaning TIR occurs when light travels from a denser medium to a rarer medium at an angle exceeding the critical angle.
Step 3: Analysis The central part (core) has a higher refractive index, and it is surrounded by a layer (cladding) with a slightly lower refractive index to enable TIR.
Step 4: Conclusion Therefore, the cladding is the immediate layer surrounding the core.
Final Answer: (A)