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
31
The 10th of Muharram is observed with solemnity and mourning to remember the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (R.A) at Karbala. It is called:
Answer:
Ashura
Ashura is a day of deep religious significance, especially for the Shia community in Pakistan. It is marked by mourning processions (Juloos) where 'Alam' (banners) and 'Zuljinah' (symbolic horse) are taken out. Devotees recite elegies (Noha) and engage in 'Matam' to express grief. Public gatherings called 'Majalis' are held to narrate the tragedy of Karbala. The government provides extensive security and medical services to ensure the safety of the mourners across the country.
32
Which night in the Islamic month of Shaban is celebrated as the 'Night of Forgiveness' with special prayers and visiting graveyards?
Answer:
Shab-e-Barat
Shab-e-Barat is observed on the night between the 14th and 15th of Shaban. In Pakistan, it is a night of intense prayer where many stay awake to seek forgiveness and pray for the deceased. Families often visit cemeteries to offer 'Fateha' at the graves of their loved ones. A traditional dish of 'Halwa' is often prepared and distributed among neighbors and the poor on this occasion.
33
The 'Festival of Lights' celebrated by the Hindu community to mark the victory of light over darkness is:
Answer:
Diwali
Diwali is a major Hindu festival observed in Pakistan with the lighting of oil lamps (diyas), fireworks, and the distribution of sweets. Temples across the country, such as the Swami Narayan Mandir in Karachi, are beautifully illuminated. The festival symbolizes the spiritual victory of good over evil. The government often announces a public holiday for the Hindu community and provides special security for their places of worship during the festivities.
34
Which Hindu festival of colors is celebrated with great zeal by the Hindu community, particularly in Sindh?
Answer:
Holi
Holi is the festival of colors celebrated by the Hindu minority in Pakistan, marking the arrival of spring. The largest celebrations take place in districts like Tharparkar, Umerkot, and Mirpurkhas, as well as in Karachi and Lahore. Participants throw colored powder (Gulal) and water at each other, share sweets, and hold religious ceremonies. In recent years, high-ranking government officials have often attended Holi events to express solidarity and promote interfaith harmony.
35
The 'National Horse and Cattle Show', a grand display of animal breeds and equestrian sports, is traditionally held in:
Answer:
Lahore
The National Horse and Cattle Show is a mega event traditionally held at the Fortress Stadium in Lahore. It serves as a showcase for Pakistan's best livestock breeds and features events like tent pegging, camel dancing, dog shows, and military band performances. After several years of suspension, the government revived the show in recent years to promote the agrarian heritage and provide healthy entertainment to the public.
36
Which desert region in Punjab is famous for its annual 'International Jeep Rally' near Derawar Fort?
Answer:
Cholistan Desert
The Cholistan Jeep Rally is a premier motorsports event in Pakistan, held annually in the Cholistan Desert of Bahawalpur. The rally route covers hundreds of kilometers of sandy terrain near the historic Derawar Fort. It has grown into a major cultural and sports festival, featuring local folk music, camel races, and exhibitions of traditional crafts, contributing significantly to the tourism and economic activity of South Punjab.
37
Which day is observed as 'Defence Day' to pay tribute to the martyrs of the 1965 war?
Answer:
September 6
September 6th is observed as Defence Day in Pakistan to commemorate the sacrifices of the soldiers who defended the country against the Indian attack across the international border in 1965. Special ceremonies are held at the monuments of Nishan-e-Haider recipients. The day is characterized by a renewed national resolve to protect the sovereignty of the state, and exhibitions of military equipment are often held for the public at various cantonments.
38
Which national day commemorates the passing of the Lahore Resolution in 1940 and the adoption of the first constitution in 1956?
Answer:
Pakistan Day
Pakistan Day is celebrated on March 23rd every year. It honors the 1940 Lahore Resolution, where the demand for a separate Muslim homeland was formally presented. It also marks the day in 1956 when Pakistan became the world's first Islamic Republic. The highlight of the day is a massive military parade in Islamabad, showcasing the strength of the Pakistan Armed Forces and a flypast by the Pakistan Air Force, attended by civil and military leadership and foreign dignitaries.
39
Independence Day in Pakistan is celebrated on August 14th to remember the country's creation in which year?
Answer:
1947
August 14th is the most significant national day in Pakistan, marking the end of British colonial rule and the birth of a sovereign state in 1947. The day starts with a 31-gun salute in the capital and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. The main ceremony features the hoisting of the national flag at the Presidency and Parliament House. Citizens celebrate by decorating their homes and vehicles with flags and lights, and national songs are played across the country to honor the struggle of the founding fathers.
40
Which festival is celebrated by the Sikh community in Pakistan at Gurdwara Panja Sahib to mark the start of the solar new year?
Answer:
Baisakhi
Baisakhi is a historic religious and harvest festival for Sikhs. In Pakistan, the main celebrations take place at Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hassan Abdal and Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib. Thousands of Sikh pilgrims from India and around the world travel to Pakistan to perform the 'Ashnan' (holy bath) and participate in religious rituals. The government of Pakistan facilitates these yatrees (pilgrims) with special visas and security, highlighting the country's commitment to religious tourism.