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
26931
What is the currency of Israel?
Answer:
The Israeli currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS). Forint is Hungary’s currency, Krone is used in Scandinavian countries, and the Euro is the common European currency. Recognizing currency names is essential for GK.
26932
Which country is NOT a member of the European Union?
Answer:
Norway has twice rejected EU membership through referenda, though it participates in the European Economic Area. Malta, Ireland, and Estonia are full EU members. This is a frequent exam trap question.
26933
Where is the permanent Secretariat of SAARC located?
Answer:
The SAARC Secretariat has been located in Kathmandu since 1987. Nepal was chosen as a neutral and central location in South Asia. Other countries are SAARC members but not hosts of the secretariat.
26934
The Suez Canal connects which two seas?
Answer:
The Suez Canal links the Mediterranean at Port Said with the Red Sea at Suez. It provides a direct maritime route between Europe and Asia, avoiding the longer path around Africa. It is one of the world’s busiest waterways.
26935
What is the capital city of Canada?
Answer:
Ottawa, in Ontario province, is Canada’s official capital. It was chosen as a compromise between English-speaking Toronto and French-speaking Montreal. Other listed cities belong to European countries, not Canada.
26936
Which international day is observed on 3 May each year?
Answer:
World Press Freedom Day, recognized by the UN, is observed on May 3. It highlights the importance of free and independent media in a democratic society. Earth Day (22 April) and Environment Day (5 June) are separate observances.
26937
Where is the headquarters of Greenpeace International located?
Answer:
Greenpeace International is headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands. From here, it coordinates campaigns on climate change, deforestation, and environmental protection worldwide. Geneva and Vienna host other major NGOs, but not Greenpeace.
26938
Which is considered the most powerful organ of the United Nations?
Answer:
The Security Council has the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. Unlike the General Assembly, its resolutions are legally binding. Its five permanent members hold veto power, making it the most influential organ.
26939
In which year did the OIC change its name from “Organization of the Islamic Conference” to “Organization of Islamic Cooperation”?
Answer:
The name change was adopted in 2011 to better reflect the organization’s cooperative mission. The OIC is the second-largest intergovernmental organization after the UN. Earlier dates correspond to unrelated OIC milestones.
26940
Which of these countries does NOT hold veto power on the UN Security Council?
Answer:
Veto power is reserved for the five permanent members: the US, UK, France, Russia, and China. Canada is an important UN member but not a permanent member of the Security Council. This distinction is repeatedly tested.