March 2024 Edition
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March 2024 Current Affairs MCQs & Solutions
Top national & international current affairs questions for CSS, PMS, FPSC, PPSC, and NTS screening tests.
#3401
Consider the following statements about the IMF-Pakistan economic program: 1. The staff-level agreement for the current disbursement was reached on March 27, 2026. 2. The primary surplus target for the FY26 budget is set at 1.6 percent. 3. The IMF program aims to ensure inflation remains within the State Bank of Pakistan's target range. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: All three statements are factually accurate based on the provided information regarding the staff-level agreement date, the fiscal primary surplus target, and the inflation objectives set by the IMF and the State Bank of Pakistan. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1995256/imf-executive-board-to-meet-on-may-8-to-approve-disbursement-of-over-12bn-to-pakistan, 26 Apr 2026]
#3402
Consider the following statements about the Senate vehicle procurement controversy: 1. The vehicle was purchased during the 2024-2025 financial year. 2. The Senate Secretariat claimed the purchase was part of a transparent procurement process. 3. The vehicle was delivered to the Senate Chairperson in May 2025. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct as the purchase occurred in the 2024-2025 financial year. Statement 2 is correct as the Secretariat cited a transparent procurement process. Statement 3 is incorrect because the vehicle was delivered in March 2026, not May 2025 (which was when the payment was made). [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1982703/rebuttal-on-purchase-of-luxury-vehicle-for-yousaf-raza-gilani-from-senate-budget-leaves-questions-unanswered, 16 Mar 2026]
#3403
Consider the following statements about the military actions conducted during Operation Ghazab lil-Haq: 1. Pakistan targeted Afghan military installations in Kabul and Nangarhar on the night of March 16, 2026. 2. The operation targeted drone storage and technical support infrastructure used for attacks against Pakistan. 3. The government claimed that civilian populations were the primary target of the precision engagements. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are correct as they align with the official report of the strikes on March 16. Statement 3 is incorrect because the government explicitly stated that no civilian population or infrastructure was targeted. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1983439/pakistan-announces-temporary-pause-in-operation-ghazab-lil-haq-against-afghan-taliban, 18 Mar 2026]
#3404
According to the analysis by Ryan Burge, what percentage of Catholic voters supported Donald Trump in the 2024 election?
(a) 42 per cent
(b) 56 per cent
(c) 65 per cent
(d) 50 per cent
Explanation: The analysis by Professor Ryan Burge indicates that Catholic voters backed Trump by a 56 per cent to 42 per cent margin in the 2024 election. This represented a significant shift compared to previous election cycles. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1991418/i-thought-it-was-me-as-a-doctor-trump-on-ai-image-of-himself-as-jesus-like-figure, 13 Apr 2026]
#3405
Which of the following statements regarding the March 16, 2026, military strikes is INCORRECT?
(a) The Afghan Taliban claimed the strikes hit a military training academy.
(b) The operation was conducted by the Pakistan Air Force.
(c) The strikes targeted ammunition storage facilities in Kabul.
(d) Secondary detonations were observed, indicating the presence of large ammunition depots.
Explanation: The Afghan Taliban spokesperson claimed that a drug rehabilitation hospital was targeted, not a military training academy. The other statements accurately reflect the details provided by the Pakistani government regarding the operation. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1982625/pakistani-forces-strike-afghan-talibans-military-installations-in-kabul-nangarhar-security-sources, 16 Mar 2026]
#3406
In which two Afghan locations did Pakistani forces conduct precision airstrikes on March 16, 2026?
(a) Kandahar and Herat
(b) Kabul and Nangarhar
(c) Helmand and Ghazni
(d) None of these
Explanation: The Pakistani government confirmed that military installations in Kabul and Nangarhar were the specific targets of the airstrikes. Kandahar and Herat were not mentioned as locations for this specific operation. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1982625/pakistani-forces-strike-afghan-talibans-military-installations-in-kabul-nangarhar-security-sources, 16 Mar 2026]
#3407
Consider the following statements about the security operations conducted on March 16, 2026: 1. The strikes were a response to unprovoked firing from across the border. 2. The operation targeted logistics and technical infrastructure used by terror proxies. 3. The Pakistani government admitted to significant collateral damage in residential areas of Kabul. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are correct as they align with the official government account of the operation's purpose and targets. Statement 3 is incorrect because the government explicitly stated that the operation was precise and carefully undertaken to ensure no collateral damage occurred. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1982625/pakistani-forces-strike-afghan-talibans-military-installations-in-kabul-nangarhar-security-sources, 16 Mar 2026]
#3408
Consider the following statements about the military actions reported on March 15, 2026: 1. The strikes targeted technical support infrastructure used by the Afghan Taliban. 2. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar confirmed the military action and shared footage of the strikes. 3. The operation was limited exclusively to air strikes with no ground-based involvement. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are factually correct. Statement 3 is incorrect because the operation also involved ground-based forces, such as the destruction of the Badini Post using light and heavy weapons. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1982323/overnight-strikes-in-afghanistans-kandahar-target-terrorist-hideouts-and-military-infrastructure-says-state-media, 15 Mar 2026]
#3409
The quadrilateral moot held in Islamabad on March 29, 2026, focused on de-escalation efforts in which region?
(a) South Asia
(b) The Middle East
(c) Central Asia
(d) The Horn of Africa
Explanation: The quadrilateral moot involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Turkiye was specifically convened to address the escalating conflict in the Middle East. The discussions aimed to facilitate a ceasefire between the US and Iran. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1991120/dar-briefs-turkish-saudi-egyptian-fms-on-islamabad-talks-reaffirms-support-for-diplomacy-and-dialogue, 12 Apr 2026]
#3410
Consider the following statements about the diplomatic efforts surrounding the Strait of Hormuz crisis: 1. Pakistan coordinated with China on a five-point initiative to restore maritime security. 2. The resolution demanded that Iran cease attacks on commercial ships and civilian infrastructure. 3. Pakistan hosted foreign ministers from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye in late March 2026 to discuss the crisis. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: All three statements are factually accurate based on the diplomatic activities reported in the context of the crisis. Pakistan has actively engaged in regional diplomacy to contain the conflict and protect critical infrastructure. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1989533/china-russia-veto-un-resolution-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz, 07 Apr 2026]
#3411
Consider the following statements about the 2026 visa fraud case: 1. The defendants were initially charged by criminal complaint in March 2026. 2. The U-visa requires the applicant to have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation of criminal activity. 3. The staged robberies were designed to be captured on store surveillance video to provide evidence for the fraudulent claims. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: All three statements are factually accurate based on the details of the 2026 indictment. The defendants were charged in March 2026, the U-visa requires cooperation with law enforcement, and the staged robberies were indeed recorded to bolster the false claims. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1990558/us-jury-indicts-10-indians-for-visa-fraud-conspiracy-involving-staged-robberies-at-convenience-stores, 10 Apr 2026]
#3412
According to the 2026 DHS data, how many student visa admissions were recorded in the United States during 2024?
(a) More than 1.8 million
(b) More than 1.2 million
(c) More than 2.5 million
(d) More than 3.0 million
Explanation: The DHS reported over 1.8 million student visa admissions in 2024, representing an 11 percent increase over the previous year. This volume was cited as a primary reason for the new oversight measures. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2015982/us-to-tighten-visa-regulations-for-foreign-students-journalists, 16 Jul 2026]
#3413
Which of the following demands was NOT included in the resolution passed by the TTAP on March 11, 2026?
(a) The release of incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan
(b) The immediate cessation of all trade with the United States
(c) The resolution of issues with Afghanistan through diplomatic channels
(d) The treatment of Afghan refugees in accordance with international laws
Explanation: The resolution called for diplomatic measures and restraint but did not demand a cessation of trade with the United States. The other three options were explicit demands or positions taken by the alliance in their resolution. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981002/ttap-calls-on-govt-to-take-opposition-parliament-into-confidence-on-defence-pacts-amid-changing-regional-situation, 11 Mar 2026]
#3414
Who chaired the meeting of the Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP) held at the Parliament House on March 11, 2026?
(a) Imran Khan
(b) Mehmood Khan Achakzai
(c) Omar Ayub Khan
(d) None of these
Explanation: Mehmood Khan Achakzai is the Chairman of the TTAP and presided over the parliamentary meeting. Imran Khan is currently incarcerated, and Omar Ayub is a prominent opposition leader but did not chair this specific session. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981002/ttap-calls-on-govt-to-take-opposition-parliament-into-confidence-on-defence-pacts-amid-changing-regional-situation, 11 Mar 2026]
#3415
Consider the following statements about the TTAP meeting held on March 11, 2026: 1. The meeting demanded that the government take the opposition into confidence regarding defence pacts. 2. The participants condemned the joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran. 3. The resolution explicitly supported the use of Pakistani territory for regional military operations against neighbouring states. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are correct as they reflect the core demands and condemnations of the resolution. Statement 3 is incorrect because the resolution specifically urged Muslim countries NOT to allow the use of their territories or resources against any other country. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981002/ttap-calls-on-govt-to-take-opposition-parliament-into-confidence-on-defence-pacts-amid-changing-regional-situation, 11 Mar 2026]
#3416
Who received Field Marshal Asim Munir upon his arrival in the region on March 21, 2026?
(a) Rawalpindi Corps Commander
(b) Peshawar Corps Commander
(c) Quetta Corps Commander
(d) Lahore Corps Commander
Explanation: The Peshawar Corps Commander is responsible for the security of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region and officially received the Army Chief upon his arrival. Other corps commanders oversee different geographical jurisdictions. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984256/terrorists-operating-from-afghanistan-wont-be-allowed-to-undermine-pakistans-security-cdf-munir, 21 Mar 2026]
#3417
Consider the following statements about the security situation as of March 21, 2026: 1. The military leadership has expressed that sanctuaries across the border in Afghanistan pose a threat to Pakistan's security. 2. The Army Chief attributed operational successes to the sacrifices of the nation's martyrs. 3. The government has officially declared that all border security operations have been permanently concluded. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) All three
Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are factually correct based on the ISPR statement. Statement 3 is incorrect because the military continues to maintain a posture of vigilance and active defense against cross-border threats, rather than concluding operations. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984256/terrorists-operating-from-afghanistan-wont-be-allowed-to-undermine-pakistans-security-cdf-munir, 21 Mar 2026]
#3418
Which of the following statements regarding the visit of Field Marshal Asim Munir on March 21, 2026, is INCORRECT?
(a) He announced a permanent withdrawal of all troops from the border regions.
(b) He emphasized that terrorists operating from Afghanistan would not be allowed to undermine Pakistan's security.
(c) He offered Eidul Fitr prayers with the troops.
(d) He lauded the achievements of the soldiers during Operation Ghazab lil-Haq.
Explanation: The military leadership has reaffirmed its commitment to defending sovereignty and maintaining a presence in border regions, making the claim of a permanent withdrawal false. The other statements accurately reflect the events of the visit. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1984256/terrorists-operating-from-afghanistan-wont-be-allowed-to-undermine-pakistans-security-cdf-munir, 21 Mar 2026]
#3419
Which official held a meeting with Saudi Defence Minister Khalid bin Salman Al Saud on March 7, 2026, to discuss regional security?
(a) Asim Munir
(b) Ahmad Farooq
(c) Tahir Andrabi
(d) Syed Mustafa Rabani
Explanation: Field Marshal Asim Munir visited Saudi Arabia on March 7, 2026, to meet with the Saudi Defence Minister regarding the security situation. The other individuals listed are diplomats or spokespersons. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981279/as-war-in-middle-east-escalates-pm-shehbaz-departs-on-brief-visit-to-saudi-arabia, 12 Mar 2026]
#3420
Who accompanied Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during his official visit to Saudi Arabia on March 12, 2026?
(a) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
(b) Ishaq Dar
(c) Khawaja Asif
(d) None of these
Explanation: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar accompanied the Prime Minister to Saudi Arabia. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Khawaja Asif were not mentioned as part of this specific delegation. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1981279/as-war-in-middle-east-escalates-pm-shehbaz-departs-on-brief-visit-to-saudi-arabia, 12 Mar 2026]