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
The 'Suri Jagek' is a traditional meteorological and astronomical practice of which community, inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding?
Answer:
Kalash
Suri Jagek (meaning 'observing the sun') is a traditional knowledge system practiced by the Kalash people of Chitral. It involves observing the sun, stars, and shadows against mountains to determine the time for sowing crops and celebrating festivals. It was inscribed by UNESCO in 2018 as a practice requiring urgent protection due to modernization.
12
Which of the following is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Pakistan, known for its ancient forests?
Answer:
Ziarat Juniper Forest
The Ziarat Juniper Forest in Balochistan was declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2013. It is home to one of the largest and oldest juniper forests in the world, with some trees estimated to be over several thousand years old. The reserve is critical for preserving unique biodiversity and the fragile ecosystem of the arid mountains.
13
Which Pakistani city was designated as a UNESCO 'Creative City of Literature' in 2019?
Answer:
Lahore
Lahore was officially added to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in 2019 in the field of Literature. This designation recognizes Lahore's rich literary history, being the home of great poets like Allama Iqbal and Faiz Ahmed Faiz, and its vibrant culture of book publishing and international literary festivals.
14
The 'Chaukhandi Tombs', famous for their unique sandstone carvings, are located near which city?
Answer:
Karachi
Located about 29 km east of Karachi, the Chaukhandi Tombs are an ancient graveyard dating from the 15th to the 18th centuries. The tombs are attributed to the Jokhio and Baloch tribes and are famous for their exquisite slab-stone carvings featuring geometric patterns, jewelry designs (for women), and equestrian figures (for men).
15
Which UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage practice, shared by Pakistan and several other countries, celebrates the arrival of spring?
Answer:
Nawruz
Nawruz marks the Persian New Year and the beginning of spring, celebrated on March 21st. In Pakistan, it is primarily observed by the Parsi community and various Shia communities in Gilgit-Baltistan and urban centers. It was inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.
16
The 'Wazir Khan Mosque', renowned for its intricate 'Kashi-kari' (tile mosaic) work, is located in which part of Lahore?
Answer:
The Walled City (Androon Shehar)
Commissioned by the Governor of Lahore, Wazir Khan, in 1634 during the reign of Shah Jahan, this mosque is considered the most ornately decorated Mughal-era mosque. It is famous for its extensive use of colorful glazed tile mosaics and fresco paintings, representing the pinnacle of Mughal craftsmanship in the Punjab region.
17
Which historic fort in the Hunza Valley was restored with the help of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture and is on the UNESCO tentative list?
Answer:
Baltit Fort
Baltit Fort is an ancient stronghold in the Hunza Valley, dating back over 700 years. Its architecture shows significant Tibetan influence, following the marriage of a local prince to a Balti princess. The fort's successful restoration in the 1990s has turned it into a major cultural landmark and a symbol of heritage preservation in Northern Pakistan.
18
The 'Hiran Minar' complex, featuring a unique water tank and a pavilion, was built by Emperor Jahangir in which city?
Answer:
Sheikhupura
Hiran Minar (The Deer Tower) was constructed in Sheikhupura by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1606 as a monument to his favorite pet antelope, Mansraj. The complex is famous for its unique design, which includes a massive water tank, an octagonal pavilion, and a 100-foot-high minaret used for tracking game during royal hunts.
19
Which fort in the Jamshoro district of Sindh is often referred to as the 'Great Wall of Sindh' due to its massive perimeter?
Answer:
Ranikot Fort
Ranikot Fort is one of the largest forts in the world, with a circumference of approximately 32 kilometers. Located in the Kirthar Range, its origins are debated, though the current structure was largely rebuilt by the Talpur dynasty in the early 19th century. It is currently on Pakistan's tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.
20
Which archaeological site in Balochistan is considered one of the most important Neolithic sites in the world, predating the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:
Mehrgarh
Mehrgarh is a Neolithic site located on the Kacchi Plain of Balochistan, dating back to 7000 BCE. It provides the earliest evidence of farming and herding in South Asia and is seen as a precursor to the Indus Valley Civilization. Archaeological findings here include mud-brick houses, granaries, and early examples of pottery and dentistry.