Pakistan Studies/Affairs MCQs
Topic Notes: Pakistan Studies/Affairs
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
11
Which of the following is a major crop grown in the reclaimed areas of the Thal Desert?
Answer:
Gram (Chickpeas)
The sandy soil of the Thal Desert is particularly suited for growing gram (chickpeas) after the winter rains. The Thal region is one of the largest producers of gram in Pakistan.
12
The Deosai Plateau, often called the 'Land of Giants,' is the second-highest plateau in the world and is located in:
Answer:
Gilgit-Baltistan
The Deosai Plateau is located in Gilgit-Baltistan at an average elevation of 4,114 meters. It is a high-altitude alpine plain known for its unique flora and fauna, including the Himalayan Brown Bear.
13
Which mineral is found in the 'Thar' region and is being developed for massive power projects?
Answer:
Lignite Coal
The Thar Desert contains one of the world's largest deposits of lignite coal. This resource is currently being mined and used for large-scale power generation to meet Pakistan's growing energy needs.
14
The 'Karez' system, an ancient method of underground irrigation, is a characteristic of which plateau?
Answer:
Balochistan Plateau
The Karez system is a traditional irrigation method in the Balochistan Plateau where underground channels are dug to bring water from the base of mountains to agricultural lands, preventing evaporation in the arid climate.
15
Which river is the most important drainage system of the Pothohar Plateau?
Answer:
Soan River
The Soan River is the primary river draining the Pothohar Plateau. It creates a rugged landscape of ravines and gullies, and its valley is home to many significant archaeological sites representing the ancient Soanian culture.
16
The Balochistan Plateau is known for 'Hamuns.' What does this term refer to?
Answer:
Seasonal dry lakes or basins
Hamuns are shallow, seasonal lakes or depressions found in the Balochistan Plateau, such as Hamun-i-Mashkel. They collect water during the rare rainy periods but remain dry and salt-encrusted for most of the year.
17
The 'Katpana Desert' is a rare geographical feature located in which region?
Answer:
Gilgit-Baltistan (Skardu)
The Katpana Desert, also known as the 'Cold Desert,' is located near Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan. It is one of the highest deserts in the world, featuring sand dunes that are often covered in snow during the winter months.
18
What is the primary source of water for the inhabitants of the Thar Desert?
Answer:
Underground water and rainfall
Because Thar lacks permanent rivers, the local population relies heavily on seasonal rainfall (monsoons) and deep underground wells. These wells are often shared by several families and are the lifeline for both humans and livestock.
19
Which unique geological feature of the Pothohar Plateau is the second largest in the world?
Answer:
Khewra Salt Mine
The Khewra Salt Mine, located in the Salt Range on the edge of the Pothohar Plateau, is the world's second-largest salt mine. It is a major source of rock salt and a popular tourist destination, dating back to its discovery by Alexander the Great's army.
20
The Kharan Desert, located in Balochistan, is primarily categorized as a:
Answer:
Sandy and mountainous desert
The Kharan Desert is a sandy desert located in the Kharan District of Balochistan. It is known for its extreme temperatures and moving sand dunes. It was notably the site of Pakistan's second nuclear tests, Chagai-II, in 1998.