January 2026 Edition
Start January Quiz
January 2026 Current Affairs MCQs & Solutions
Top national & international current affairs questions for CSS, PMS, FPSC, PPSC, and NTS screening tests.
#17421
Which of the following factors was primarily responsible for the pressure on Indian bond sentiment during the week ending July 24, 2026?
(a) Surging oil prices
(b) Domestic political instability
(c) A sudden decline in tax revenue
(d) None of these
Explanation: Surging oil prices and higher U.S. Treasury yields were the primary drivers of negative sentiment in the Indian bond market. Domestic political instability and tax revenue are not cited as factors in this context. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431650/india-bonds-end-three-day-losing-streak-but-post-second-straight-weekly-decline, 24 Jul 2026]
#17422
According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) forecast issued on July 24, 2026, which of the following districts is expected to experience heavy rainfall and potential urban flooding?
(a) Shikarpur
(b) Kashmore
(c) Jacobabad
(d) Tharparkar
Explanation: The PMD specifically identified Tharparkar, along with districts like Hyderabad and Badin, as areas at high risk for heavy rainfall and urban flooding. While Kashmore, Jacobabad, and Shikarpur are expected to receive rain, they were categorized under light to moderate intensity in the forecast. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431626/pmd-forecasts-widespread-rain-across-sindh-warns-of-urban-flooding, 24 Jul 2026]
#17423
Consider the following statements regarding Pakistan's diplomatic stance at the SCO meeting on July 24, 2026: 1. Pakistan emphasized that a stable Afghanistan is in the interest of all SCO member states. 2. The DPM highlighted that Afghan nationals have been involved in terrorist attacks within Pakistan. 3. Pakistan advocated for military intervention by the SCO to resolve the Afghan security 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: Statements 1 and 2 are accurate reflections of the DPM's address. Statement 3 is incorrect because Pakistan explicitly stated that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only sustainable paths to resolving conflicts, rather than advocating for military intervention. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431639/dpm-ishaq-dar-urges-sco-to-hold-afghan-taliban-accountable-over-terrorism, 24 Jul 2026]
#17424
Which of the following statements regarding the market conditions as of March 11, 2026, is INCORRECT?
(a) Spot platinum prices fell by 5 percent.
(b) Spot gold prices were recorded at $5,202.10 per ounce.
(c) Oil prices dropped below $90 per barrel.
(d) Gold has risen more than 20 percent so far this year.
Explanation: Spot platinum actually rose by 0.1 percent, making the claim that it fell by 5 percent incorrect. The other statements accurately reflect the market data provided for the specified date. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1980850/gold-edges-higher-on-safe-haven-demand-ahead-of-us-cpi-data, 11 Mar 2026]
#17425
Consider the following statements about the investment plan announced on March 11, 2026: 1. The investment plan aims to stimulate industrial activities and generate employment in Balochistan. 2. The Chinese delegation was accompanied by the former finance minister of Balochistan, Amjad Rasheed. 3. The proposed investment in the mineral sector is larger than the investment in the manufacturing sector. 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 investment aims to boost industry and jobs. Statement 2 is correct as Amjad Rasheed accompanied the delegation. Statement 3 is incorrect because the $2.6 billion manufacturing investment is significantly larger than the $14 million mineral sector investment. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1980763/chinese-firms-plan-to-invest-26bn-in-balochistan, 11 Mar 2026]
#17426
Consider the following statements about the joint statement issued on July 24, 2026: 1. The statement was issued by a group of eight Arab and Islamic nations. 2. The signatories included Pakistan, Türkiye, and Indonesia. 3. The statement explicitly mentions that the actions taken by Israel are in accordance with international humanitarian law. 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 accurately identify the number and composition of the signatory nations. Statement 3 is incorrect because the statement explicitly claims that the actions are a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law, not in accordance with it. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431627/pakistan-seven-other-islamic-states-condemn-israeli-escalation-at-al-aqsa-mosque, 24 Jul 2026]
#17427
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) movement gained significant national traction following the cancellation of which type of examination in May 2026?
(a) Civil Services Examination
(b) Engineering entrance exam
(c) Medical school entrance test
(d) University graduation finals
Explanation: The movement expanded to millions of followers after a national medical school entrance test was cancelled due to a question paper leak. This event served as the primary catalyst for the widespread youth mobilization. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2018062/indian-government-seeks-time-on-youth-protesters-minister-resignation-demand, 24 Jul 2026]
#17428
Consider the following statements about the meeting between the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Iran in July 2026: 1. The meeting occurred on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Foreign Ministers. 2. The ministers discussed the importance of de-escalation and sustained diplomatic engagement. 3. The Iranian Foreign Minister criticized Pakistan's role in regional security. 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 venue and the diplomatic tone of the meeting. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Iranian Foreign Minister actually expressed appreciation for Pakistan's constructive role in regional peace. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431646/pakistan-iran-fms-reaffirm-commitment-to-regional-peace-at-sco-meeting, 24 Jul 2026]
#17429
The monsoon currents influencing the weather conditions in Sindh as of July 24, 2026, are originating from which body of water?
(a) Bay of Bengal
(b) Arabian Sea
(c) Persian Gulf
(d) None of these
Explanation: The PMD report explicitly states that strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea, combined with a low-pressure area over Rajasthan, are driving the weather patterns. The Bay of Bengal and Persian Gulf are not the primary sources of these specific monsoon currents. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431626/pmd-forecasts-widespread-rain-across-sindh-warns-of-urban-flooding, 24 Jul 2026]
#17430
Consider the following statements about the 2026 Asian Games cricket tournament: 1. The men's competition features a total of ten teams. 2. The women's tournament begins with a preliminary round before the quarter-finals. 3. India enters the 2026 Asian Games as the defending champion in both men's and women's cricket. 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 there are ten teams in the men's competition. Statement 2 is incorrect because the women's tournament begins directly at the quarter-final stage. Statement 3 is correct as India won both gold medals at the 2022 Asian Games. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2018033/india-pakistan-among-teams-handed-direct-asian-games-mens-cricket-knockout-berths, 24 Jul 2026]
#17431
Consider the following statements about the market timing policies in May 2026: 1. The federal government announced a nationwide 8pm market closure policy on April 6, 2026. 2. The Sindh government's decision to lift curbs was intended to facilitate businesses and citizens. 3. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government requested citizens to continue observing electricity conservation measures despite lifting timing restrictions. 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. The federal government did announce the 8pm policy in April, Sindh cited facilitation as the reason for the change, and KP explicitly requested continued electricity conservation. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2000676/sindh-lifts-curbs-on-market-timings-minister-says-step-taken-to-facilitate-businesses-citizens, 16 May 2026]
#17432
Consider the following statements about the current economic and geopolitical environment as of March 11, 2026: 1. Gold is functioning as a safe-haven asset due to heightened geopolitical uncertainty. 2. The conflict has led to the stranding of oil tankers for more than a week. 3. Investors expect at least three rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in 2026. 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 accurate based on the report. Statement 3 is incorrect because investors expect at least two, not three, rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in 2026. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1980850/gold-edges-higher-on-safe-haven-demand-ahead-of-us-cpi-data, 11 Mar 2026]
#17433
Which of the following is NOT a stated objective of the 2026 visit of the Kuwaiti Foreign Minister to Pakistan?
(a) Signing a formal military alliance treaty
(b) Exchanging views on regional and international developments
(c) Reviewing the full spectrum of bilateral relations
(d) Strengthening the longstanding partnership between the two nations
Explanation: The visit focused on diplomatic dialogue, reviewing bilateral relations, and discussing regional developments. There was no mention of signing a formal military alliance treaty. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40432027/kuwaiti-foreign-minister-to-visit-pakistan-on-tuesday-fo, 27 Jul 2026]
#17434
Consider the following statements about the refinery project announced on March 11, 2026: 1. The project involves a partnership with India's Reliance Industries. 2. The facility is intended to be the first major oil refinery built in the United States in half a century. 3. The project is entirely funded by the US federal government. 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 partnership with Reliance and the historical context of the refinery construction. Statement 3 is incorrect because the project is a private investment initiative, not a federally funded government project. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1980847/trump-touts-us-oil-refinery-deal-with-indias-energy-giant-reliance-industries, 11 Mar 2026]
#17435
Consider the following statements about the automotive sector in 8MFY26: 1. The sharp month-on-month decline in February 2026 sales was partly attributed to a high base effect from January. 2. Lower interest rates and easing inflation were cited as key drivers for year-on-year growth. 3. Tractor sales experienced a significant year-on-year growth of 43 percent during the 8MFY26 period. 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 market analysis provided by industry experts. Statement 3 is incorrect because tractor sales actually plunged by 21 percent year-on-year, not grew by 43 percent. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/1980724/auto-sales-rise-43pc-in-july-february, 11 Mar 2026]
#17436
Who led the delegation from the Istanbul Bar Association No. 2 during its visit to the Karachi Press Club on July 27, 2026?
(a) Amir Latif
(b) Yasin Samli
(c) Nasrullah Chaudhry
(d) Maqsood Yousufi
Explanation: Advocate Yasin Samli is the President of the Istanbul Bar Association No. 2 and led the delegation. The other individuals listed were Pakistani representatives who received the delegation at the Karachi Press Club. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431897/istanbul-bar-number-2-delegation-visits-karachi-press-club, 27 Jul 2026]
#17437
On July 25, 2026, which regulatory body granted the first private electricity distribution and SoLR licenses to DHA Energy Supply Company?
(a) Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority
(b) National Electric Power Regulatory Authority
(c) Public Procurement Regulatory Authority
(d) None of these
Explanation: The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) is the sole regulator responsible for issuing electricity distribution and supply licenses in Pakistan. The other options are regulatory bodies for different sectors. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2018147/karachis-dha-city-becomes-first-private-entity-to-light-up-its-own-housing-project, 25 Jul 2026]
#17438
Arrange the following developments concerning Pakistan's external and domestic policy landscapes in the order they were processed/reported (all on July 28, 2026):
(a) 1-2-3-4
(b) 4-3-2-1
(c) 2-1-4-3
(d) 3-4-1-2
Explanation: The order reflects the thematic progression of the news cycle: starting with public health, moving to foreign cultural cooperation, addressing energy logistics, and concluding with internal political friction. All events occurred on the same date, requiring logical sequencing based on public interest and administrative gravity in the source files. [Source: https://www.dawn.com/news/2018920/ending-hepatitis]
#17439
According to the statement made by Ishaq Dar on July 24, 2026, approximately how many terrorist incidents occurred in Pakistan during the current year?
(a) Over 1,000
(b) Over 1,500
(c) Over 2,000
(d) Over 2,500
Explanation: Ishaq Dar reported that over 2,000 terrorist incidents had occurred in Pakistan during the year 2026, resulting in the deaths of more than 560 citizens. This statistic underscores the urgency of his call for regional accountability. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431639/dpm-ishaq-dar-urges-sco-to-hold-afghan-taliban-accountable-over-terrorism, 24 Jul 2026]
#17440
The joint statement issued on July 24, 2026, warned that the provocative actions at Al-Aqsa Mosque obstruct efforts to advance peace based on which framework?
(a) The one-state solution
(b) The regional confederation model
(c) The two-state solution
(d) The international trusteeship model
Explanation: The ministers warned that the inflammatory acts obstruct efforts to advance a just and lasting peace on the basis of the two-state solution. This framework remains the standard diplomatic position for the signatory nations regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. [Source: https://www.brecorder.com/news/40431627/pakistan-seven-other-islamic-states-condemn-israeli-escalation-at-al-aqsa-mosque, 24 Jul 2026]