General Knowledge MCQs
Topic Notes: General Knowledge
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
19481
Which of the following describes a key strategic priority for IDA in recent replenishment cycles?
Answer:
Addressing fragility, conflict, and violence (FCV) and the challenge of climate change.
These are two of the most significant and complex challenges facing IDA countries, and they receive dedicated financing windows.
19482
The IDA uses the **Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA)** to determine:
Answer:
How funds will be allocated among IDA-eligible countries based on their policy performance and institutional quality.
The CPIA rating is a critical factor in IDA's performance-based allocation system, rewarding countries with better policies and governance.
19483
What is the maximum term (repayment period) for an IDA credit?
Answer:
38 or 40 years.
IDA credits feature very long maturities (38 or 40 years, including a 10-year grace period), reflecting the challenging economic conditions of recipient countries.
19484
IDA's financing is typically aimed at long-term projects in areas such as:
Answer:
Primary education, basic health services, water supply, and sanitation.
IDA projects focus on poverty reduction and improvements in the fundamental conditions of life in the poorest nations.
19485
What is the key criterion used to determine a country’s eligibility for IDA financing?
Answer:
Lack of access to private capital markets and Gross National Income (GNI) per capita below a set operational threshold.
The GNI per capita threshold (which is adjusted annually) is the main quantitative measure for IDA eligibility.
19486
How often does the IDA replenishment process typically occur?
Answer:
Every three years.
The IDA replenishment is a cyclical process where donors commit funds for IDA's operations over a three-year period.
19487
The primary source of funds for IDA is the periodic replenishment process, which relies mainly on:
Answer:
Voluntary contributions from high and middle-income member countries (donor countries).
IDA relies on generous donations (replenishments) from donor governments, supplemented by transfers from IBRD and IFC, and bond issuances.
19488
Which specific instrument does IDA primarily use to provide financing to eligible countries?
Answer:
Interest-free loans (credits) and grants.
IDA provides 'credits' (loans with zero or very low interest) and grants, making it the concessional lending arm of the World Bank.
19489
Where is the permanent headquarters of the International Development Association (IDA) located?
Answer:
Washington, D.C., USA
IDA is part of the World Bank Group and shares its headquarters with the IBRD in Washington, D.C.
19490
In what year was the IDA established?
Answer:
1960
IDA was established in 1960 to address the needs of developing countries that were too poor to qualify for International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) loans.