Question 1

In the history of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), who served as the first Chairman at the time of the organisation founding summit?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation, commonly known as SAARC, is an organisation created to promote regional cooperation among South Asian countries. Knowing its early leadership is part of general awareness about regional organisations. The first summit and chairmanship are often asked in exams focusing on international organisations and Indian foreign policy, because India is a founding member and South Asia is its immediate neighbourhood. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about the first Chairman of SAARC. Options list leaders from South Asian countries, including Mr. Zia ur Rehman, Lt.Gen H.M.Ershad, King Birendra and Mrs. Indira Gandhi. We assume knowledge that SAARC first summit took place in Dhaka, Bangladesh in the mid nineteen eighties. Concept / Approach: Key facts include the location of the first SAARC summit and the head of state who hosted it. The founding summit was held in Dhaka in 1985, and the leader of Bangladesh at that time was President Hussain Muhammad Ershad, a military officer often referred to as Lieutenant General. Therefore, he served as the first Chairman of SAARC. The approach is to identify which option names this leader correctly and to eliminate other leaders who were important in the region but did not chair the first SAARC meeting. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that SAARC was founded in 1985 with its first summit in Dhaka, capital of Bangladesh.Step 2: Remember that at that time Bangladesh was led by President Hussain Muhammad Ershad, a military ruler with the rank of Lieutenant General.Step 3: Look at the options. Option B, Lt.Gen H.M.Ershad, clearly refers to this leader.Step 4: Option A, Mr. Zia ur Rehman, refers to a former president of Bangladesh who was assassinated before 1985 and therefore could not be the first SAARC Chairman.Step 5: Option C, King Birendra, was the king of Nepal at that time but did not chair the first summit.Step 6: Option D, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, had been prime minister of India earlier but she was assassinated in 1984, before the first SAARC summit.Step 7: Therefore, option B is the only correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Information about SAARC history in reference books and exam guides confirms that the first summit took place in Dhaka in December 1985 and that the first Chairman was President H. M. Ershad of Bangladesh. Lists of SAARC Chairpersons typically begin with his name. Zia ur Rehman is listed as an earlier president of Bangladesh, King Birendra is noted as a monarch of Nepal and Indira Gandhi as an Indian prime minister, but none are marked as the first SAARC Chairman. This cross check reinforces that Lt.Gen H.M.Ershad is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mr. Zia ur Rehman is wrong because he died in 1981 and SAARC was formally launched in 1985, so he could not preside over its first summit. King Birendra is wrong because although Nepal is a member of SAARC, he did not host or chair the founding summit. Mrs. Indira Gandhi is wrong because she passed away in 1984 and also was not the head of the host country for the first meeting. These leaders played other significant roles in South Asian politics but not the specific role of first SAARC Chairman. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes mix up South Asian leaders with similar sounding names or confuse different time periods in regional politics. Another pitfall is to assume that because India is the largest country in SAARC, an Indian leader must have been the first Chairman. In fact, summit chairmanship usually goes to the head of the host country. To avoid errors, remember the simple link: first SAARC summit in Dhaka and first Chairman as President H. M. Ershad of Bangladesh. Final Answer: The first Chairman of SAARC was Lt.Gen H.M.Ershad, the president of Bangladesh at the time of the founding summit in Dhaka in 1985.

Question 2

Who was the first Asian diplomat to become Secretary General of the United Nations Organisation (UNO)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The United Nations Organisation plays a central role in global diplomacy, and its Secretary General is the top administrative official and an important symbol of international cooperation. Knowing who first represented Asia in this position is a frequent question in general knowledge and international relations exams. It highlights the growing role of Asian countries in world affairs during the twentieth century. Given Data / Assumptions: The question asks for the first Asian Secretary General of the UNO. Options include Vijaya Laxmi Pandit, U.Thant, Trygve Lie and Kurt Waldheum. We assume basic knowledge of the sequence of UN Secretaries General. Concept / Approach: The first Secretary General of the United Nations was Trygve Lie from Norway, a European country. He was followed later by U Thant from Burma, now Myanmar, who became the first Asian to hold the post. Kurt Waldheim from Austria served after U Thant. Vijaya Laxmi Pandit was a prominent Indian diplomat and the first woman president of the UN General Assembly, but she was not Secretary General. The approach is to match each name to their correct role and nationality and then pick the one that fits the description of first Asian Secretary General. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that U Thant from Burma became the third Secretary General of the United Nations in the early nineteen sixties.Step 2: Recognise that he was the first person from Asia to hold this top UN post.Step 3: Note that Trygve Lie, another option, was Norwegian and served as the first Secretary General, but he was European, not Asian.Step 4: Note that Kurt Waldheim, another option, was Austrian and served later, also European.Step 5: Understand that Vijaya Laxmi Pandit from India was an important diplomat who served as president of the General Assembly but not as Secretary General.Step 6: Therefore, the first Asian Secretary General must be U.Thant. Verification / Alternative check: Lists of UN Secretaries General show the sequence: Trygve Lie of Norway, Dag Hammarskjold of Sweden, U Thant of Burma, Kurt Waldheim of Austria and so on. Among these, U Thant is clearly the earliest representative from Asia. Biographical details confirm that he was appointed acting Secretary General in 1961 after Dag Hammarskjold death and later confirmed in the position. Vijaya Laxmi Pandit is listed separately under presidents of the General Assembly, not under Secretaries General. This cross check confirms that U.Thant is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Vijaya Laxmi Pandit is wrong in this context because although she was a distinguished Indian diplomat, she did not become Secretary General. Trygve Lie is wrong because he was European and already the first Secretary General overall, not the first Asian. Kurt Waldheim is wrong because he was an Austrian diplomat who came later and also not from Asia. Therefore, none of these options fit the requirement of being the first Asian in that office. Common Pitfalls: Students may confuse different UN posts, mixing up the General Assembly president with the Secretary General. This often leads to incorrectly selecting Vijaya Laxmi Pandit. Another pitfall is memorising the list of Secretaries General without paying attention to their nationalities, which can cause confusion between Trygve Lie, U Thant and Kurt Waldheim. To avoid this, remember a simple association: Trygve Lie and Kurt Waldheim are European, while U Thant is the first Asian Secretary General from Burma. Final Answer: The first Asian to serve as Secretary General of the UNO was U.Thant from Burma, now Myanmar.

Question 3

The year 1995 was celebrated as the golden jubilee, or fiftieth anniversary, of which of the following major international organisations?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Golden jubilee celebrations mark the fiftieth anniversary of an event or institution. In 1995, one very important international organisation completed fifty years since its founding at the end of the Second World War. This fact is frequently asked in general knowledge examinations, especially those focused on international relations and world organisations, because it reinforces awareness of global institutions that work for peace and cooperation. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about the year 1995 and a golden jubilee. Options include GATT, NAM, UNO and ASEAN. We need to identify which organisation was founded around 1945 so that 1995 would be its fiftieth anniversary. Concept / Approach: The United Nations Organisation was established in 1945, immediately after World War Two, to replace the League of Nations and promote international peace and security. Counting forward fifty years from 1945 gives 1995, which is when the UN celebrated its golden jubilee. GATT, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, dates from 1947, NAM from the early nineteen sixties and ASEAN from 1967. Their fiftieth anniversaries therefore fall in different years, not 1995. The approach is to match founding dates with the jubilee year. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the UN Charter was signed in 1945 and the organisation began functioning in the same year.Step 2: Add fifty years to 1945. The simple calculation 1945 + 50 gives 1995, which is a golden jubilee year for the UN.Step 3: Consider GATT, which started in 1947. Its fiftieth anniversary would be 1997, not 1995.Step 4: Consider NAM, the Non Aligned Movement, which took shape around 1961. Its fiftieth anniversary would be around 2011.Step 5: Consider ASEAN, founded in 1967. Its golden jubilee would be in 2017.Step 6: Only the UNO founding year matches a golden jubilee in 1995. Verification / Alternative check: News archives and official UN sources confirm that 1995 was celebrated as the fiftieth anniversary of the United Nations. Special events, stamps, conferences and publications marked the occasion. GATT, NAM and ASEAN have their own historical timelines and held major anniversaries in different years. Because the golden jubilee specifically counts fifty years, any organisation not founded around 1945 cannot be the correct answer. This cross check clearly points to the UNO. Why Other Options Are Wrong: GATT is wrong because it began in 1947, giving a golden jubilee year of 1997 rather than 1995. NAM is wrong because it emerged in the early nineteen sixties and therefore would reach fifty years much later. ASEAN is wrong because it was created in 1967, again making its golden jubilee in 2017, not 1995. None of these timelines align with the year given in the question. Common Pitfalls: One error is to choose GATT simply because its founding date is relatively close to 1945, without doing the simple arithmetic. Another pitfall is to answer based on which organisation feels most familiar rather than matching the given year to an actual founding date. To avoid this, quickly add fifty to the founding year of each candidate and check which result matches the year provided. For 1995, the only suitable candidate is the United Nations Organisation. Final Answer: The year 1995 was the golden jubilee year of the UNO, the United Nations Organisation founded in 1945.

Question 4

What is the main aim of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) as stated in its basic objectives and charter?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: SAARC is a regional organisation that brings together countries of South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives and Afghanistan. Understanding its main objective is fundamental to questions on international organisations and regional groupings. While the member countries may follow different foreign policies, the central idea behind SAARC is cooperation within the region for mutual benefit. Given Data / Assumptions: The question asks for the main aim of SAARC. Options include Regional Cooperation, Internal affairs, Non-alignity and Peaceful Coexistence. We assume knowledge that SAARC is a regional association of South Asian states. Concept / Approach: Regional organisations like SAARC, ASEAN and the European Union are formed to encourage cooperation among neighbouring countries in areas such as trade, culture, education and development. SAARC charter specifically mentions promoting the welfare of people of South Asia and accelerating economic growth, social progress and cultural development through joint action. Therefore, the central aim can be summarised as regional cooperation. Other terms like non alignment and peaceful coexistence describe broader foreign policy principles of many states rather than the specific organisational aim of SAARC. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that SAARC stands for South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation.Step 2: Notice that the full form itself contains the words regional cooperation, which directly describes its main aim.Step 3: Look at option A, Regional Cooperation, which exactly matches this idea.Step 4: Option B, Internal affairs, is vague and does not capture cooperation among states.Step 5: Option C, Non-alignity, refers to the Non Aligned Movement principle of not formally aligning with major power blocs, which is separate from SAARC mission.Step 6: Option D, Peaceful Coexistence, is a general principle of international relations but not the specific stated main aim of SAARC.Step 7: Therefore, Regional Cooperation is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Reading the objectives of SAARC in its charter, we find phrases about promoting welfare, accelerating economic growth and strengthening collective self reliance among South Asian countries. These aims are all forms of cooperation within the region. The very name of the organisation emphasises that it is an association for regional cooperation. Non alignment and peaceful coexistence appear in other international documents but are not the core mission statement of SAARC. This confirms that the main aim is accurately summarised as regional cooperation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Internal affairs is wrong because it does not express any positive goal and could even sound like interference in domestic matters, which SAARC does not promote. Non-alignity is wrong because that principle belongs to the Non Aligned Movement and is about relationships with global power blocs, not specifically about cooperation inside South Asia. Peaceful Coexistence is wrong because while SAARC obviously supports peace, the charter focuses on cooperation and development rather than only avoiding conflict. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse SAARC with NAM or other international principles and choose non alignment or peaceful coexistence because they look familiar. Another pitfall is not paying attention to the full form of the organisation name, which already contains a clue. To avoid mistakes, always remember that SAARC is primarily about South Asian countries working together, so the phrase regional cooperation should immediately come to mind. Final Answer: The main aim of SAARC is Regional Cooperation among the countries of South Asia in areas such as economic development, social progress and cultural exchange.

Question 5

The international township built near Pondicherry in India in collaboration with UNESCO is known by which of the following names?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: India hosts several projects supported by international organisations such as UNESCO. One unique project is an experimental international township near Pondicherry intended to promote human unity and sustainable living. This township is often mentioned in questions about world organisations, culture and Indian geography. Recognising its name helps students connect UNESCO collaborations with actual places in India. Given Data / Assumptions: The township is near Pondicherry in India. It was built in collaboration with UNESCO. Options are Broadway, Gayaville, Auroville and Elbaville. We assume some familiarity with South Indian cultural and spiritual centres. Concept / Approach: The township in question is Auroville, conceived by Mirra Alfassa also known as the Mother, associated with Sri Aurobindo philosophy. It is designed as an international community where people from many countries can live together in harmony beyond national and religious boundaries. UNESCO has supported the project and passed resolutions encouraging its development. The other option names are not linked to this concept or location. The approach is to recall the association between Pondicherry, Sri Aurobindo and the name Auroville. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that near Pondicherry there is a planned township called Auroville, whose name comes from Sri Aurobindo.Step 2: Know that Auroville was endorsed by UNESCO as an experiment in human unity and sustainable living.Step 3: Compare the options. Broadway is usually a famous street and theatre district in New York, not a township in India.Step 4: Gayaville and Elbaville do not correspond to any known UNESCO supported townships near Pondicherry.Step 5: Auroville matches both the location and the UNESCO collaboration described in the question. Verification / Alternative check: Official descriptions of Auroville state that it was founded in 1968 near Pondicherry as a universal township where people of all countries can live in peace and progressive harmony. UNESCO has passed several resolutions commending Auroville as a project of importance for the future of humanity. Tourist guides and geography textbooks also list Auroville as an attraction in the region. No similar descriptions exist for Broadway, Gayaville or Elbaville in connection with Pondicherry. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Broadway is wrong because it is most commonly associated with New York theatre and has no link to a UNESCO supported township in India. Gayaville and Elbaville appear as invented names with no recognised connection to Pondicherry or UNESCO projects. They may look plausible because they end with ville, but they do not match any real township in this context. Only Auroville is a genuine international township located near Pondicherry. Common Pitfalls: Students may be confused by the similar sounding endings of the options and choose randomly if they do not remember the correct name. Another pitfall is not linking the root word Auro with Sri Aurobindo and the spiritual community around Pondicherry. To avoid errors, remember the trio Pondicherry, Sri Aurobindo and Auroville as a connected group in your mind, along with the keyword UNESCO. Final Answer: The international township near Pondicherry built in collaboration with UNESCO is called Auroville.

Question 6

India is a member of many international groupings. Which of the following groups is India not a member of?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Countries often belong to multiple international organisations and informal groups, such as regional associations, global economic forums and the United Nations. India in particular participates actively in several of these bodies. However, it is not a member of every grouping. This question checks whether the learner can distinguish between forums where India has membership and ones where it does not, focusing on economic groups like G twenty and G eight, as well as SAARC and the United Nations. Given Data / Assumptions: The options given are G twenty, G eight, SAARC and the UN. India is known to be a large developing economy with regional as well as global roles. We assume familiarity with at least some of these organisations and groupings. Concept / Approach: The G twenty is a group of major economies, including both developed and developing countries, and India is a recognised member. SAARC is a regional association of South Asian countries, and India is a founding member. The UN is a global organisation that almost all countries, including India, belong to. The G eight, in contrast, is a smaller group of highly industrialised nations that does not include India as a full member. The approach is to match India memberships with each option and identify the one where it is absent. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that India is one of the major economies of the world and participates in G twenty summits as a member.Step 2: Recall that India is a founding member of SAARC, which includes South Asian countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.Step 3: Remember that India was one of the original signatories to the UN Charter in 1945 and is a long standing member of the United Nations.Step 4: Consider G eight, which historically comprised countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Japan and Russia at various times.Step 5: Note that India is not included among these G eight countries as a full member.Step 6: Therefore, the only group listed where India is not a member is G eight. Verification / Alternative check: Checking membership lists confirms that India appears in official G twenty documents, SAARC charters and UN membership lists. It frequently hosts or attends G twenty summits, participates in SAARC meetings and takes part in UN General Assembly sessions. In contrast, historical membership rosters of G seven and G eight do not include India. Instead, they focus on a small set of advanced industrial economies from North America, Europe and Japan, and earlier also Russia. This cross check confirms that G eight is the correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: G twenty is wrong because India is clearly a member and plays an active role in its discussions on global economic policy. SAARC is wrong because India is a founding and central member of this South Asian regional grouping. The UN is wrong because India is an early and continuous member state of the United Nations. Only G eight has never included India as a full member, making it the correct choice. Common Pitfalls: A common confusion arises between G seven, G eight and G twenty, where students may not recall exactly which countries belong to each group. Another pitfall is assuming that a large economy like India automatically belongs to every high level economic forum. To avoid mistakes, remember that G twenty is a broader grouping including emerging economies such as India and China, while G eight is a smaller club of traditional industrial powers that does not include India. Final Answer: Among the listed options, India is not a member of G - 8.

Question 7

In United Nations history, 2006 was declared the International Year of which specific theme or focus area?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The United Nations often declares particular years as International Years dedicated to a specific theme in order to focus global attention, mobilise political will, and encourage concrete action. The question here tests factual knowledge of one such observance, namely which theme was selected for the International Year in 2006. Understanding these themes helps candidates connect current affairs, environmental issues, and global governance initiatives, which are common areas in competitive examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: We are asked about the year 2006 in the context of official United Nations International Year declarations. The task is to identify the exact theme recognised by the United Nations for that year. Four options are given, each referring to a potential global concern or social issue. We assume standard General Knowledge references regarding UN observances and resolutions passed by the General Assembly. Concept / Approach: The correct approach is to recall or recognise which global theme was officially declared by the United Nations General Assembly for 2006. The UN frequently uses International Years to highlight pressing issues such as hunger, women, youth, biodiversity, and environmental problems. In this case, 2006 was declared the International Year of Deserts and Desertification, with the goal of raising awareness about expanding deserts, land degradation, and the impact of desertification on livelihoods and ecosystems. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note that the question specifically refers to an official United Nations International Year, not to any other organisation.Step 2: Recall that in 2006 the United Nations focused particular attention on environmental challenges, especially on the problem of desertification.Step 3: Connect 2006 with campaigns related to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, which actively promoted this International Year.Step 4: Match this memory with the option that clearly mentions deserts and desertification.Step 5: Therefore, select the option stating Deserts and Desertification as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: An alternative way to verify the answer is to recall that the International Year of Deserts and Desertification was used to draw attention to the social and economic consequences of land degradation in arid, semi arid, and dry sub humid areas. It was linked to concerns such as food security, poverty, migration, and biodiversity loss. None of the other options is strongly associated with a widely publicised International Year in 2006, which further confirms that Deserts and Desertification is the only accurate match for this question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, World Population Awareness, is a major global concern, but 2006 was not officially designated as an International Year of population by the United Nations.Option C, Global Communication and Media, relates broadly to information society issues, but again 2006 is not remembered as a UN International Year of communication.Option D, Older Persons and Ageing, corresponds to an important demographic topic, but this was not the specific International Year declared in 2006. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to assume that any major sounding global issue must have been chosen as an International Year, which may lead students to guess population or ageing without verifying the exact year. Another error is to confuse UN observances with observances declared by other international bodies, or with general awareness campaigns that do not have the formal status of United Nations International Years. Candidates should cultivate the habit of linking particular years with specific official themes, especially for frequently asked years such as 1975, 1985, 2000, or 2006. Final Answer: Deserts and Desertification

Question 8

Which one of the following countries is not a member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), the cartel of nuclear fuel and technology suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The Nuclear Suppliers Group, commonly called the NSG, is an important export control regime that seeks to prevent nuclear proliferation by regulating the export of materials, equipment, and technology that can be used for nuclear weapons. This question checks awareness of which states belong to this group and which do not. For aspirants of competitive examinations, knowledge of such strategic groupings is important because it is frequently linked with discussions on nuclear security, international diplomacy, and India relations with global powers. Given Data / Assumptions: The question mentions the Nuclear Suppliers Group and lists four countries as possible answers. France, Russia, and the United States of America are all major nuclear powers. Iran is a country whose nuclear programme has often been under international scrutiny. The task is to identify which of these is not part of the NSG membership. Concept / Approach: The conceptual step is to understand that NSG membership mainly includes states that are recognised as suppliers of nuclear material and technology and that follow certain guidelines for nuclear export controls. Many leading industrialised nuclear capable states such as France, Russia, and the United States are NSG members. Iran, on the other hand, has been subject to sanctions and international negotiations regarding its nuclear programme and is not a recognised member of this suppliers group. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the NSG originated in the 1970s after the Indian nuclear test and consists largely of developed nuclear supplier countries.Step 2: Confirm that France is a prominent nuclear exporter and has long been an NSG member.Step 3: Recall that Russia, as the successor of the Soviet Union, is also a major nuclear power and a member of the NSG.Step 4: Remember that the United States of America is a leading nuclear technology supplier and founding participant in the NSG.Step 5: Observe that Iran is usually discussed as a non compliant or monitored nuclear state, subject to negotiations, and is not part of the NSG. Therefore, Iran is the correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification method is to cross check general news knowledge. India has sought NSG membership and has negotiated with the United States, Russia, and France for support, which indicates that these countries are already inside the group. Iran is rarely if ever mentioned as a nuclear supplier; instead it appears in reports about enrichment, inspections, or sanctions. This strong contrast in roles confirms that Iran is not an NSG member. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, France, is wrong because France is a long standing NSG member and an exporter of civilian nuclear technology.Option B, Russia, is wrong because it is a major nuclear power and an active member of the Nuclear Suppliers Group.Option C, United States of America, is wrong because the United States is one of the key initiators and pillars of the NSG regime. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse nuclear supplier groups with broader forums like the United Nations or the Non Proliferation Treaty system and may assume that any controversial nuclear country, including North Korea or Iran, is linked formally to such clubs. Another pitfall is to think that only western powers are members, ignoring Russia participation. Careful reading of international news and a short list of NSG members can prevent such confusion in the exam hall. Final Answer: Iran

Question 9

In the United Nations Security Council, which of the following listed countries does not possess veto power?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The United Nations Security Council is one of the most powerful organs of the UN system. It is responsible for maintaining international peace and security and has a unique structure that includes five permanent members with veto power. This question checks whether the candidate knows which countries are permanent members and which are not, by asking which listed state does not enjoy the veto privilege. Such questions are standard in general knowledge and international relations sections of competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: The question refers specifically to veto power in the United Nations Security Council. Four options are given, namely the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Russia, and West Germany. The five permanent members of the Security Council are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. We assume that the reference to West Germany is historical but still clearly indicates Germany rather than a permanent member. Concept / Approach: The approach is to recall the list of permanent members of the Security Council. Only permanent members possess veto power, meaning that any of these five can block a substantive resolution by casting a negative vote. Therefore, any country that is not among these five, irrespective of its economic or political status, does not possess veto power. By matching the options against the known permanent members, we can quickly isolate the non permanent state. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: List the five permanent members of the Security Council from memory, which are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.Step 2: Compare these names with the options given in the question.Step 3: Note that the United Kingdom appears in the list and is a permanent member with veto power.Step 4: Note that the United States of America is also a permanent member with veto power.Step 5: Recognise that Russia, as the successor state to the Soviet Union, is also one of the five permanent members.Step 6: Observe that West Germany is not in the list of permanent members of the Security Council and has never possessed veto power. Therefore, West Germany is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification technique is to recall that permanent membership and veto power were given only to the victorious allied powers after the Second World War plus China. Germany was defeated in the war and was later divided into East and West Germany, so it could not have been granted permanent member status or veto privilege. This historical background confirms that West Germany does not possess veto power, while the other three options do. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, United Kingdom, is wrong because the United Kingdom is one of the original permanent members of the Security Council and enjoys veto power.Option B, United States of America, is wrong because the United States is also a permanent member with veto authority.Option C, Russia, is wrong because Russia occupies the permanent seat formerly held by the Soviet Union and continues to possess veto power. Common Pitfalls: Students may confuse economically powerful states like Germany or Japan with permanent members and assume they must have veto power. Another confusion arises from historical references like West Germany, which no longer exists as a separate state, leading some candidates to think of current unified Germany and its strong role in the European Union. To avoid errors, aspirants should memorise the exact list of permanent members and remember that economic power alone does not guarantee a veto seat. Final Answer: West Germany

Question 10

Where is the headquarters of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) located?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Regional organisations play a major role in shaping modern international relations. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations, commonly known as ASEAN, is one of the most important regional groupings in Asia. Knowing the headquarters of ASEAN is a standard general knowledge requirement, especially for questions that connect geography, diplomacy, and regional cooperation. This question therefore checks whether the candidate can correctly identify the city where ASEAN main secretariat is based. Given Data / Assumptions: The organisation mentioned is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, abbreviated as ASEAN. Four options are provided: Jakarta, Beijing, New York, and Da Nang. Beijing and New York are well known global cities associated with other major organisations. The task is to select the correct city that hosts the ASEAN headquarters. Concept / Approach: ASEAN is a political and economic organisation of Southeast Asian states that promotes regional stability and economic integration. Its headquarters are housed in the ASEAN Secretariat. By basic international affairs knowledge, the ASEAN Secretariat is located in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, which is one of the founder members of ASEAN. The other options relate to important global or Asian cities but are associated with other roles. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the list of ASEAN member states, which includes Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and others.Step 2: Remember that the ASEAN Secretariat is located in Indonesia, one of the largest and most central states in the grouping.Step 3: More specifically, note that the Secretariat is placed in Jakarta, the national capital of Indonesia.Step 4: Compare this information with the options given in the question.Step 5: Select Jakarta as the city that serves as the headquarters of ASEAN. Verification / Alternative check: As an additional check, one may recall that Beijing is the capital of China and is associated with many Chinese institutions, not a regional organisation of Southeast Asian countries. New York is known as the headquarters of the United Nations and several other international organisations. Da Nang is a major city in Vietnam but is not the seat of the ASEAN Secretariat. These associations help confirm that Jakarta is the only suitable choice for the ASEAN headquarters. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, Beijing, is wrong because it is the capital of China, which is not an ASEAN member and does not host the ASEAN Secretariat.Option C, New York, is wrong because it is famous as the headquarters of the United Nations, not of ASEAN.Option D, Da Nang, is wrong because it is an important Vietnamese city but does not function as the ASEAN headquarters. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates wrongly assume that large global cities like New York or Beijing must host every major international body. Others confuse ASEAN with organisations like APEC or the United Nations, whose headquarters are located in different cities and countries. To avoid these mistakes, learners should systematically map regional groupings to their headquarters, such as ASEAN in Jakarta, European Union institutions in Brussels and other European cities, and SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu. Final Answer: Jakarta

Question 11

Which of the following international agreements is commonly used by the International Court of Justice in disputes concerning riparian rights over shared rivers?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Riparian rights refer to the rights and obligations of states sharing international rivers and watercourses. With growing competition over freshwater resources, disputes about the use of transboundary rivers often reach international legal forums such as the International Court of Justice. This question checks whether the student knows which set of international rules and principles is commonly referred to when dealing with water sharing disputes, particularly in the context of the International Court of Justice and similar bodies. Given Data / Assumptions: The problem mentions the International Court of Justice and disputes concerning riparian rights. Four agreements are listed as options: Helsinki Agreement, Paris Agreement, Reykjavik Agreement, and Geneva Agreement. We assume that the reference is to widely accepted guidelines on the use of international rivers. The candidate is expected to link the correct agreement with watercourses and riparian principles. Concept / Approach: There are specific principles developed in international law that govern the non navigational uses of international watercourses. The so called Helsinki Rules or Helsinki Agreement on the Uses of the Waters of International Rivers laid down guidelines related to equitable and reasonable utilisation, obligation not to cause appreciable harm, and duties of cooperation. These principles have influenced case law and international practice and are often cited in disputes resolved by the International Court of Justice and arbitral tribunals when riparian rights are in question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the key phrase in the question is riparian rights, which means rights over rivers and shared watercourses.Step 2: Recall that Helsinki Rules or Helsinki Agreement deals specifically with the uses of international rivers and related legal principles.Step 3: Note that the Paris Agreement is widely associated with climate change mitigation commitments rather than river law.Step 4: Recognise that Reykjavik and Geneva are associated more with various diplomatic meetings and conventions but not specifically with riparian rules.Step 5: Conclude that the Helsinki Agreement is the most appropriate and correct choice for disputes concerning riparian rights. Verification / Alternative check: A useful way to verify this answer is to recall what each agreement is famous for. The Paris Agreement is clearly about climate change and emissions, while Geneva related agreements usually refer to humanitarian law or arms control. Reykjavik is best known in modern history for a nuclear disarmament summit between the United States and the Soviet Union, not for river law. Only Helsinki is strongly associated with rules on international rivers, which confirms that the Helsinki Agreement must be the intended answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, Paris Agreement, is wrong because it focuses on global climate change commitments, not directly on riparian rights.Option C, Reykjavik Agreement, is wrong since Reykjavik is more closely linked with Cold War diplomatic talks, not with river law.Option D, Geneva Agreement, is wrong because Geneva is better associated with conventions on war, refugees, and weapons rather than with international rivers and riparian rules. Common Pitfalls: Candidates may be tempted by options that sound familiar, such as Paris Agreement or Geneva Agreement, because these names are frequently mentioned in the news. However, familiarity alone is not enough; one must connect each instrument with the correct subject matter. Another pitfall is to ignore the keyword riparian, which directly points to rivers and watercourses. Careful reading of the stem and association of key terms with correct legal instruments help avoid mistakes in such questions. Final Answer: Helsinki Agreement

Question 12

The headquarters of the World Anti Doping Agency (WADA) are located in which of the following cities?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The World Anti Doping Agency, usually abbreviated as WADA, is a key international body responsible for promoting, coordinating, and monitoring the fight against doping in sports. Questions on its headquarters and role are common in examinations that cover sports, international organisations, and contemporary developments. This item specifically tests whether the learner knows the city where WADA is based. Given Data / Assumptions: The organisation named is the World Anti Doping Agency. The options list four cities: Montreal, Brussels, New York, and Geneva. Only one of these cities is the correct location for WADA headquarters. We assume familiarity with global sports governance and major international bodies. Concept / Approach: WADA was established to bring consistency to anti doping rules across sports and countries. It plays a central role in maintaining the World Anti Doping Code, monitoring compliance, and conducting research. The agency is headquartered in Montreal, Canada. By contrast, Geneva and New York are associated with broader United Nations related institutions, while Brussels is linked with European Union institutions. Recognising this pattern helps in selecting the correct city. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the organisation in the question, which is the World Anti Doping Agency.Step 2: Recall from sports current affairs that WADA headquarters are located in Canada.Step 3: Narrow down the options to the Canadian city listed, which is Montreal.Step 4: Confirm that Brussels is a key European Union centre, New York hosts the United Nations, and Geneva hosts several UN agencies but not WADA.Step 5: Select Montreal as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification approach is to think of major international events and documents mentioning WADA. Media reports on doping in athletics, cycling, and other sports frequently refer to the Montreal based agency. Official WADA documents and press releases also describe Montreal as its base, while other anti doping organisations at regional levels may be located elsewhere. This repetition in news coverage confirms that Montreal is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, Brussels, is wrong because it is known as a centre of the European Union, not the headquarters of WADA.Option C, New York, is wrong since it is mainly associated with the headquarters of the United Nations and various global corporations.Option D, Geneva, is wrong because although it hosts many international organisations, such as the World Health Organization and International Labour Organization offices, it is not the headquarters city of the World Anti Doping Agency. Common Pitfalls: Many aspirants guess Geneva or New York whenever they see a question about an international organisation because these cities are strongly associated with global governance. However, not every body is headquartered in those locations. Students must memorise a short list of important agencies and their specific headquarters, including WADA in Montreal, FIFA in Zurich, IOC in Lausanne, and so on, to avoid such generalised but incorrect guesses. Final Answer: Montreal

Question 13

For how long is a non permanent member elected to serve on the United Nations Security Council?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The United Nations Security Council consists of both permanent and non permanent members. While the five permanent members are fixed, non permanent members are elected for limited terms and rotate among the wider UN membership. This question checks knowledge of the length of that term, a detail that frequently appears in general knowledge and international relations examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is about non permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. Four possible term lengths are listed as options: two years, three years, one year, and six months. The Security Council structure as defined in the UN Charter is assumed to be known. We need to recall the exact standard term for these rotating member states. Concept / Approach: According to the United Nations Charter, the Security Council has ten non permanent members elected by the General Assembly. These members are chosen for a term of two years and are not immediately eligible for re election. The idea is to give different regions and states a chance to participate in Council work while maintaining continuity through staggered elections. Therefore, the two year term is a key factual element that candidates must remember. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the Security Council has fifteen members in total, consisting of five permanent and ten non permanent members.Step 2: Remember that non permanent members are elected by the General Assembly.Step 3: Connect this with the fact that each non permanent member serves for a standard period of two years.Step 4: Look at the options and identify Two years as the correct duration.Step 5: Confirm that other options such as one year, three years, or six months do not match the UN Charter provision. Verification / Alternative check: One way to verify is to think of recently elected non permanent members, including India in various terms. News reports usually state that India has been elected to the Security Council for a two year term, which reinforces the memory of the correct duration. Repeated exposure to these news items helps confirm that the two year term is the standard rule for all non permanent seats. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, Three years, is wrong because the Security Council does not use three year terms; that duration is more common in other elected bodies.Option C, One year, is wrong as such a short term would not provide enough continuity for complex Security Council deliberations.Option D, Six months, is clearly incorrect because it is far too short for the level of responsibility involved. Common Pitfalls: Occasionally students confuse the term lengths of different UN organs. For example, members of the Economic and Social Council or certain other bodies may serve for three years, which can mislead candidates in a hurry. Another pitfall is not paying attention to news articles that clearly mention the two year term when a country is elected to the Council. Regular reading of such articles and a mental table of term lengths for major UN bodies can prevent these errors. Final Answer: Two years

Question 14

At the time of its formation in 1945, how many member countries did the United Nations Organisation (UNO) have?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The foundation of the United Nations Organisation in 1945 is one of the most important events in modern world history. Questions relating to the number of founding members, the charter signing, and the main organs of the UN are very common in competitive exams. This particular question tests recall of the exact number of member countries that joined the United Nations at its birth in 1945. Given Data / Assumptions: The year of formation of the United Nations is given as 1945. We are asked about the number of countries that were members at that time. Four options are provided: forty five, fifty one, forty eight, and fifty four. We assume that the candidate is familiar with basic UN history and charter facts. Concept / Approach: When the UN Charter was signed and the organisation formally came into existence, fifty one countries were original members. Over time, membership expanded significantly to include nearly all recognised sovereign states, but the founding figure of fifty one remains an important factual detail. The approach is therefore to remember or deduce this number rather than confuse it with later membership totals. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that the United Nations was created in 1945 after the Second World War to prevent another global conflict.Step 2: Remember that at its formation, there were fifty one founding members.Step 3: Compare this number with the answer options provided in the question.Step 4: Identify Fifty one as the correct option, expressed in words.Step 5: Confirm that other options correspond to incorrect membership counts and do not match the founding figure. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification method is to recall that later milestones such as the admission of new states in the 1950s, decolonisation era, and post Cold War period increased UN membership to more than one hundred and ninety. In contrast, study materials and historical notes repeatedly mention fifty one original members in 1945. This clear distinction between founding membership and present membership helps confirm the correct number. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, Forty five, is wrong because this number is lower than the actually recorded founding membership.Option C, Forty eight, is wrong because it does not match any standard milestone in UN membership history.Option D, Fifty four, is wrong because it is again a random higher figure and not the specific total at formation. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse the fifty one founding members with later membership totals or with numbers related to other organisations, such as the Commonwealth or regional groupings. Another common error is to assume that the present day membership count was also the starting figure, which is not correct. To avoid these mistakes, aspirants should create a simple timeline of UN membership growth with a clear note that the starting point in 1945 was fifty one countries. Final Answer: Fifty one

Question 15

Which of the following pairs of Asian languages are official languages of the United Nations?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The United Nations works in several official languages to ensure that its proceedings and documents are accessible to member states around the globe. Knowledge of these official languages is a favourite area for general knowledge questions, because it links geography, culture, and international organisation structure. This question narrows the focus to pairs of Asian languages and asks which pair correctly represents languages that have official status at the United Nations. Given Data / Assumptions: The question is limited to Asian languages among the official UN languages. Four options list different combinations of Chinese, Japanese, Hindi, and Arabic. The full list of UN official languages is Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Arabic. We assume that the student can match this list with the given options. Concept / Approach: The conceptual step is to recall the complete list of six official United Nations languages and then focus on which of those can be categorised as Asian. Among the six, Chinese and Arabic are clearly Asian languages by geographic and cultural origin. Japanese and Hindi are important Asian languages but do not have official status at the United Nations. Therefore, the only correct pair among the options is Chinese and Arabic. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: List the six official UN languages from memory, which are Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish, and Arabic.Step 2: Identify which of these six are Asian, namely Chinese and Arabic.Step 3: Examine each option to see which pair matches these two languages.Step 4: Note that options involving Japanese or Hindi include at least one language that is not an official UN language.Step 5: Choose Chinese and Arabic as given in option D as the correct pair. Verification / Alternative check: Another verification method is to recall where UN headquarters and major offices are located and which languages are typically used in official signage and documents. Images and news coverage from the United Nations clearly show multilingual nameplates and documents listing Chinese and Arabic, but not Hindi or Japanese, among the official languages. Also, official UN information pages list these six languages explicitly, reinforcing that Chinese and Arabic are both official, while Japanese and Hindi are not. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, Chinese and Japanese, is wrong because Japanese is not an official language of the United Nations.Option B, Chinese and Hindi, is wrong because Hindi, despite being widely spoken, does not have official United Nations language status.Option C, Japanese and Arabic, is wrong because Japanese again is not among the six official UN languages. Common Pitfalls: Many students assume that languages with large numbers of speakers, such as Hindi or Japanese, must be official languages of the UN. However, official status depends on historical and political negotiations rather than solely on number of speakers. Another pitfall is to remember only the English and French components and forget the rest, leading to confusion when faced with partial lists involving Asian languages. Regular revision of the complete list of six official United Nations languages can easily prevent this type of mistake. Final Answer: Chinese and Arabic

Question 16

Which of the following Indian medical professionals was appointed as a Deputy Director General at the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2017?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The World Health Organization is the principal United Nations agency responsible for international public health. Senior appointments at WHO, especially of Indian experts, often make news and are therefore important for current affairs based general knowledge. This question specifically asks about the Indian medical professional who was appointed as a Deputy Director General at WHO in 2017, a milestone that reflects India growing role in global health leadership. Given Data / Assumptions: The post mentioned is Deputy Director General at the World Health Organization. The year of appointment referenced is 2017. The options list four names, of which one is a widely known Indian paediatrician and clinical scientist. We assume that the candidate keeps track of major international appointments of prominent Indian figures. Concept / Approach: In 2017, Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, a noted Indian paediatrician and clinical scientist with extensive research experience in tuberculosis and HIV, was appointed as a Deputy Director General at WHO. Her appointment was widely reported in Indian and international media, highlighting her previous role as Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research. Therefore, recognizing her name among the options is the key to solving this question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall significant news about Indian scientists and doctors taking up senior positions in international organisations in 2017.Step 2: Remember that Dr. Soumya Swaminathan was appointed as a Deputy Director General at WHO in that year.Step 3: Scan the options to locate her name exactly as it appears.Step 4: Note that the other names listed do not correspond to widely known senior WHO appointments.Step 5: Select Dr. Soumya Swaminathan as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: A candidate can verify this answer by recalling follow up news that later described her role as Chief Scientist at WHO, a position she took after serving as Deputy Director General. Biographical notes about her emphasise this progression. The repeated mention of her work in tuberculosis research and her leadership within the Indian Council of Medical Research also reinforce her prominence, making it unlikely that any of the other options is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, Rajat Nandan, is wrong because this name is not associated with a Deputy Director General position at WHO in 2017.Option C, Prof. Dr. Vikash Jha, is wrong since he is not known for holding this specific WHO post in the year mentioned.Option D, Sunil Narayan, is wrong for the same reason; there is no widely reported appointment of this person as WHO Deputy Director General in 2017. Common Pitfalls: Students may sometimes be confused by multiple choice options that look formal or include academic titles such as Professor or Doctor, and may guess based on how impressive a name appears. Another pitfall is weak follow up of current affairs, especially in the health and science sectors, leading to uncertainty about such appointments. To avoid this, aspirants should maintain notes on major appointments of Indians to international posts across sectors like health, economic policy, and diplomacy. Final Answer: Dr. Soumya Swaminathan

Question 17

In 1953, India held the presidency of the United Nations General Assembly. Which Indian leader occupied this office on behalf of the country?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The office of President of the United Nations General Assembly is one of the most prestigious positions in international diplomacy. India has had the honour of occupying this office, and questions about who represented India in this role are frequent in competitive exams. The question specifically targets the year 1953, when an Indian leader became the first woman to preside over the General Assembly. Given Data / Assumptions: The year of interest is 1953. India held the presidency of the United Nations General Assembly in that year. Four distinguished Indian personalities are listed as options. The candidate is expected to recall which of them became President of the General Assembly. Concept / Approach: In 1953, Vijayalakshmi Pandit, a distinguished Indian diplomat and sister of Jawaharlal Nehru, became President of the United Nations General Assembly. She was the first woman ever to hold this office. Her appointment is a landmark event in both Indian diplomatic history and the history of the United Nations, often highlighted in textbooks and general knowledge compendiums. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the question asks for the Indian leader who served as President of the UN General Assembly in 1953.Step 2: Recall that Vijayalakshmi Pandit was a prominent Indian diplomat and became the first woman to preside over the General Assembly.Step 3: Look for her name among the options provided.Step 4: Note that while S. Radhakrishnan, Gopalswamy Iyyengar, and V. K. Krishna Menon were important Indian leaders, none of them served as President of the General Assembly in 1953.Step 5: Select Vijayalakshmi Pandit as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Verification can be done by recalling that Vijayalakshmi Pandit is frequently mentioned in exam oriented material as both the first woman President of the General Assembly and a symbol of India active role in early United Nations diplomacy. Biographical notes on her life and on the history of the UN emphasise this achievement. The other names in the options are associated with different roles, such as philosophy, politics, or defence, which helps confirm that only Vijayalakshmi Pandit matches the specific description. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, S. Radhakrishnan, later became President of India but did not serve as President of the UN General Assembly in 1953.Option B, Gopalswamy Iyyengar, was an important statesman but is not recorded as occupying this UN office.Option C, V. K. Krishna Menon, was a famous diplomat and Defence Minister but known more for his long speeches in the UN than for holding the General Assembly presidency. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may mix up different high offices and assume that any prominent international figure from India might have held the post of President of the General Assembly. Another pitfall is to focus only on male personalities and overlook the role of Vijayalakshmi Pandit. To avoid errors, learners should connect the unique distinction of being the first woman President of the General Assembly with her name and remember the year 1953 as a key milestone. Final Answer: Vijayalakshmi Pandit

Question 18

Through which treaty was the East African Development Bank originally established to promote regional economic development?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Regional development banks are crucial instruments for financing infrastructure, industry, and social projects in specific geographic areas. The East African Development Bank is one such institution that serves countries in East Africa. This question asks about the treaty through which the bank was originally established, a detail that connects banking, regional integration, and treaty based cooperation in Africa. Given Data / Assumptions: The organisation referenced is the East African Development Bank. Several similar sounding treaties are given as options, each linked to cooperation or unity in Africa. We must identify the exact treaty that created the bank in its original form. The year 1967, associated with East African regional cooperation, is particularly relevant. Concept / Approach: The East African Development Bank was established under the Treaty for East African Co operation of 1967, which aimed to promote economic integration among East African states. This treaty provided a legal framework for shared institutions, including the development bank. Other treaties listed in the options are either generic or do not correspond to the bank creation. Therefore, a careful reading and recall of the full treaty title and year is essential. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the question is about the origin of the East African Development Bank.Step 2: Recall that the bank was created as part of institutional arrangements under the Treaty for East African Co operation signed in 1967.Step 3: Compare the answer options and note which one exactly matches this treaty name and year.Step 4: Recognise that Option A explicitly states Treaty for East African Co operation, 1967.Step 5: Select Option A as the correct answer and reject other treaties that either have different names or years. Verification / Alternative check: One can verify the answer by recalling that the East African Community and related institutions have roots in agreements from the mid to late 1960s focused on cooperation among Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Historical references to the East African Development Bank almost always mention the Treaty for East African Co operation of 1967 as its founding instrument. The other listed treaties do not appear in standard descriptions of the bank history. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, Treaty for African Co operation, 1965, is wrong because it is a generic phrase and not the specific legal instrument that created the bank.Option C, Treaty for African Unity, 1968, is wrong because it does not correspond to the name or year associated with the East African Development Bank formation.Option D, None of these, is wrong because Option A already provides the correct treaty. Common Pitfalls: Students may be confused by similar sounding treaty names and by the temptation to choose None of these when they are unsure. Another pitfall is to mix up the East African Development Bank with the African Development Bank, which has a different founding treaty and membership. To avoid confusion, learners should note that the East African Development Bank is more regional and is linked specifically to the Treaty for East African Co operation, 1967. Final Answer: Treaty for East African Co operation, 1967

Question 19

Which world organisation is commonly known by the abbreviation UNCTAD instead of using its full name?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Many United Nations bodies and conferences are known by abbreviations, and it is important for exam candidates to recognise the full forms behind these short names. UNCTAD is one such abbreviation that appears frequently in economic news and discussions about international trade. This question checks whether the learner can correctly expand UNCTAD into its full official name. Given Data / Assumptions: The abbreviation given is UNCTAD. Four expanded forms are provided as options, all starting with United Nations. Only one of these options correctly represents the full name of UNCTAD. The candidate is expected to have basic awareness of United Nations economic bodies. Concept / Approach: UNCTAD stands for United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. It deals with trade, investment, and development issues, especially for developing countries. The trick in this question lies in differentiating the correct word Development from incorrect distractors such as Deposits or Downpayments, which sound financial but are not part of the actual title. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Break down the abbreviation UNCTAD into possible words, with C likely standing for Conference, T for Trade, and D for Development.Step 2: Examine the answer options for a phrase that fits this breakdown and is widely known.Step 3: Recognise that United Nations Conference on Trade and Development exactly matches the standard expansion.Step 4: Dismiss options that include unlikely words such as Deposits or Downpayments, which do not reflect UNCTAD development focus.Step 5: Select United Nations Conference on Trade and Development as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Verification can be done by recalling that UNCTAD reports on world investment, trade, and development indicators. Its flagship publications such as the Trade and Development Report or World Investment Report are well known. These names clearly confirm that the D in UNCTAD stands for Development. None of the organisation official documents use the words Deposits or Downpayments in their names, which further validates the chosen expansion. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B, UN Conference on Trading and Deposits, is wrong because Deposits does not feature in the official name and does not capture the broader development mandate.Option C, UN Chambers on Trading and Development, is wrong because the body is a Conference, not a Chambers.Option D, UN Conference on Trade and Downpayments, is wrong because Downpayments is not part of the standard terminology of this organisation. Common Pitfalls: One common mistake is to focus only on the trade related part of the name and ignore the development aspect, leading to confusion with other trade bodies. Another pitfall is to be misled by similar sounding financial terms such as Deposits and Downpayments which exam setters use as distractors. To avoid these errors, students should memorise the exact expansions of important UN abbreviations like UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNICEF, and UNDP. Final Answer: UN Conference on Trade and Development

Question 20

Within the United Nations system, which council is made up of five permanent members along with non permanent members?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The United Nations is composed of several principal organs, each with its own structure and functions. One of the most powerful among them is the council that includes a unique group of five permanent members who hold veto power. This question asks the candidate to identify which council has this structure. Understanding this arrangement is essential for grasping how global security decisions are made. Given Data / Assumptions: The phrase five permanent members clearly refers to a specific UN organ. The options list Trusteeship Council, Security Council, General Assembly, and Economic and Social Council. Only one of these bodies has five permanent members and additional non permanent members. We assume that the student has basic awareness of UN organisational structure. Concept / Approach: The Security Council is the only UN organ that includes five permanent members, namely China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with ten non permanent members elected for limited terms. The permanent members have special privileges such as veto power on substantive resolutions. No other council or organ within the UN has this particular arrangement of permanent and non permanent members with veto rights. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the names of the principal organs of the United Nations, which include the General Assembly, Security Council, Economic and Social Council, Trusteeship Council, International Court of Justice, and Secretariat.Step 2: Identify which of these has a structure based on permanent and non permanent members.Step 3: Recognise that the Security Council fits this description, with five permanent and ten non permanent members.Step 4: Note that the General Assembly includes all member states without permanent seats and that the Economic and Social Council and Trusteeship Council do not have five permanent members.Step 5: Select Security Council as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: As a cross check, consider how international news reports refer to the P5, which stands for the five permanent members of the Security Council. Whenever global crises or military interventions are discussed, the Security Council is mentioned because of its power to authorise actions and impose sanctions. There is no similar reference to permanent members in relation to the General Assembly or the Economic and Social Council, which confirms that the Security Council is the only correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, Trusteeship Council, is wrong because it was created to supervise trust territories and does not have five permanent members with veto powers.Option C, General Assembly, is wrong because it includes all UN member states with equal voting rights and no permanent member category.Option D, Economic and Social Council, is wrong because it consists of elected member states but not a special group of permanent veto holding members. Common Pitfalls: Students may become confused by the number of UN organs and may incorrectly assume that the General Assembly, being large and representative, has some permanent members. Others may overlook the precise wording of the question and forget the distinctive feature of the Security Council. A simple mnemonic is to associate Security Council with security and veto powers, while the General Assembly is a broader deliberative body with equal votes for all members. Final Answer: Security Council

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