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
1
Which island near the Balochistan coast is being considered for the development of a second marine protected area to support port-related biodiversity?
Answer:
Astola
Astola Island, also known as Jezira Haft Talar, is a small uninhabited island off the coast of Pasni. It was declared Pakistan's first Marine Protected Area (MPA) in 2017. Protecting the biodiversity around such islands is crucial for balancing the industrial growth of ports like Gwadar with environmental sustainability.
2
What is the primary commodity exported through the Karachi Port?
Answer:
Textiles and Cotton products
As the main commercial hub, Karachi Port handles the bulk of Pakistan's value-added exports, primarily textiles, garments, and cotton products. These items are transported via container ships to markets in Europe, America, and Asia. It also handles agricultural exports like rice, fruits, and leather goods.
3
Which coastal town is located at the tri-junction of Pakistan, Iran, and the Arabian Sea?
Answer:
Jiwani
Jiwani is a town and commercial port located at the extreme western end of Pakistan's coast, near the border with Iran. During World War II, it served as an important Allied airbase. Today, it is a key site for monitoring maritime traffic in the Gulf of Oman and is a major center for the turtle conservation program.
4
Which port handles the majority of Pakistan's iron ore and coal imports for the steel and power sectors?
Answer:
Port Qasim
Port Qasim has specialized berths such as the Iron Ore and Coal Berth (IOCB) which were originally built for the Pakistan Steel Mills. With the rise in coal-powered energy projects, Port Qasim has become the primary destination for coal shipments, utilizing advanced mechanical handling systems to offload massive quantities efficiently.
5
The 'Free Zone' development is a major feature of which Pakistani port city?
Answer:
Gwadar
Gwadar is being developed as a special economic zone with a designated 'Free Zone' area. Businesses operating within this zone enjoy tax holidays and customs exemptions for a specific period. This is modeled after successful international ports like Jebel Ali in Dubai to attract foreign direct investment and promote export-oriented industries.
6
Which historical port city in Sindh is often identified with the landing of Muhammad bin Qasim in 711 AD?
Answer:
Debal
Debal was an ancient port city located near modern-day Karachi or Bhanbhore in Sindh. It was the first city captured by the Umayyad general Muhammad bin Qasim in 711 AD. The ruins of the port provide historical evidence of Pakistan's long-standing connection to maritime trade between the Middle East and South Asia.
7
Which port is situated on the Pishukan coast of Balochistan?
Answer:
Pishukan Fish Harbor
Pishukan is a small but significant fish harbor located in the Gwadar district. It has been developed to support the local fishing community and to alleviate congestion at the main Gwadar harbor. It is known for its high-quality fish production and is a growing center for maritime activity on the western coast.
8
In the context of ports, what does PQA stand for in Pakistan?
Answer:
Port Qasim Authority
PQA stands for Port Qasim Authority. It is the governing body responsible for managing Port Muhammad Bin Qasim. PQA functions as a 'landlord port' where it provides the basic infrastructure and land, while private terminal operators handle the cargo operations under long-term concessions.
9
Which port is located near the mouth of the Indus River?
Answer:
Port Qasim
Port Qasim is located in the Phitti Creek of the Indus Delta, approximately 35 kilometers east of Karachi. Its proximity to the Indus River's mouth provides a unique tidal ecosystem. The port was established to serve as a deep-water channel for large industrial shipments, taking advantage of the natural creek system.
10
How many major commercial seaports are currently operational in Pakistan?
Answer:
Three
Pakistan currently has three major operational commercial seaports: Karachi Port, Port Qasim, and Gwadar Port. While there are several other smaller harbors and fish harbors like Pasni, Ormara, and Jiwani, these three handle the vast majority of the country's international maritime trade and commercial cargo.