1. Apart from efforts towards economic integration across the region, which of the following African organizations has also served as a peacekeeping force sending joint military forces in the times of political unrest?
[A] African Economic Community
[B] Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
[C] Arab Maghreb Union
[D] East African Community
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)]
Notes:
ECOWAS is a 15 member community of western African countries that makes efforts towards not only economic integration but also peace keeping during times of political unrest.
2. Who is the author of the book “Yug Purush, Bharat Ratna, Atal Ji”?
[A] Ramesh Pokhriyal
[B] Praveen Kumar Pandey
[C] Ramesh Datt Dikisht
[D] Nerraj Srivastava
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Ramesh Pokhriyal]
Notes:
The book titled “Yug Purush, Bharat Ratna, Atal Ji” is based on the on the social and political life of former Prime Minister of India Atal Bhihari Vajpayee. It is authored by Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank”, who is the BJP MP and former Uttarakhand chief minister. Recently, Pokhriyal has officially handed over the first copy of the 450-page book to the President of India Pranab Mukherjee. Though, the book will be launched soon in the market for all.
3. Which among the following organization helps world’s poorest countries?
[A] IMF
[B] IBRD
[C] IDA
[D] ADB
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [IDA]
Notes:
The International Development Association (IDA) is the part of the World Bank that helps the world’s poorest countries. It complements the World Bank’s other lending arm — the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) — which serves middle-income countries with capital investment and advisory services.
4. Which among the following was founded in 1974 in response to the Indian nuclear test in Pokharan?
[A] Nuclear Threat Initiative
[B] International Atomic Energy Agency
[C] Nuclear Suppliers Group
[D] Nonproliferation for Global Security Foundation
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [Nuclear Suppliers Group]
Notes:
Nuclear Suppliers Group was formed by seven countries viz. Canada, West Germany, France, Japan, the USSR, the United Kingdom, and the United States in response to the ‘Smiling Buddha’ (Pokharan-I) of India in 1974. It was clear from this adventure of India that certain non-weapons specific nuclear technology could be readily turned to weapons development, since it was alleged that India used the Canada sourced material to make bomb. The objective of the NSG was to reduce nuclear proliferation by controlling the export and re-transfer of materials that may be applicable to nuclear weapon development and by improving safeguards and protection on existing materials.
5. At which of the following places UN Charter was signed?
[A] New York
[B] Geneva
[C] Paris
[D] San Francisco
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [San Francisco]
Notes:
The UN Charter was signed in San Francisco on June 26, 1945, during the United Nations Conference on International Organization. This event marked the establishment of the United Nations, aimed at promoting peace and cooperation among nations after World War II. San Francisco was chosen for its historical significance and its role in the Pacific theater during the war.
6. UN Mission named MONUSCO is located in which country?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Somalia
[C] Chad
[D] Congo
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Congo]
Notes:
UN Mission named MONUSCO is located in Congo. It is acronym based on its French name (French: Mission de l’Organisation des Nations Unies pour la stabilisation en République démocratique du Congo). It is a United Nations peacekeeping force in Congo.
7. Out of the 15 members of the United Nations Security Council, assent of how many is required to make a decision?
[A] 5 Permanent & 5 Non-Permanent Members
[B] 5 Permanent & 8 Non-Permanent Members
[C] 5 Permanent & 4 Non-Permanent Members
[D] 5 Permanent & 2 Non-Permanent Members
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [5 Permanent & 4 Non-Permanent Members]
Notes:
The correct answer is “5 Permanent & 4 Non-Permanent Members.” In the United Nations Security Council, a decision requires the affirmative votes of at least 9 out of 15 members, which includes all 5 permanent members (China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and 4 non-permanent members. This structure ensures that both permanent and non-permanent members have a important role in decision-making. Notably, any of the permanent members can veto a substantive resolution, which is a unique feature of the Security Council.
8. Which among the following navies took part in Varuna naval exercise ?
[A] India and England
[B] India and France
[C] India and Singapore
[D] India and Australia
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [India and France]
Notes:
The Varuna naval exercise is a biennial military exercise between India and France, focusing on enhancing interoperability and maritime security. The first Varuna exercise took place in 2001, and it has since evolved to include various naval operations, showcasing advanced naval capabilities. France is a key strategic partner for India, particularly in defense and maritime cooperation.
9. Which among the following books written by Shams i Siraj Afif?
[A] Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi
[B] Tuzuk-i-Mubarak Shahi
[C] Fautuhat-i-Ferozshahi
[D] All of the above
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi]
Notes:
Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi (or the history of Sultan Firoj Shah Tughlaq) was written by Shams i Siraj Afif .The most accurate and authentic contemporary account of Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq period is solely denoted in it and the book also describes the life and conditions of the people at large.
10. Who authored the Adbutsagar?
[A] Vijay Sena
[B] Lakshman Sena
[C] Vishvarup Sena
[D] Ballal Sena
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Ballal Sena]
Notes:
Ballal Sena, the ruler of the Sena dynasty, was the author of Adbutsagar and Dansagar. These works of literature provide a glimpse into the literary and cultural aspects of the time. They are regarded as significant historical documents that illuminate our understanding of the era.