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 of the following describes the 'Demographic Transition' stage Pakistan is currently in?
Answer:
High birth rate and falling death rate (Early transition)
Pakistan is in the 'Early Transition' stage. While medical advances have significantly reduced the death rate (increasing life expectancy), the birth rate has not fallen at the same pace. This gap between high births and low deaths is the primary cause of the current 'Population Explosion'.
2
The 2023 Census showed that the population of Lahore has reached:
Answer:
13 Million
Lahore's population was recorded at 13 million in the 2023 census, showing massive growth from 11.1 million in 2017. Lahore has expanded horizontally, absorbing many nearby villages into its urban sprawl, making it one of the fastest-growing mega-cities in the world.
3
The 'Total Enumerated Population' of the 2023 Census excludes which of the following groups?
Answer:
Both b and c
The national census counts the resident population (citizens and long-term residents). Foreign diplomats and short-term visitors/tourists are excluded from the count. However, long-term refugees who have been living in Pakistan for years are often included in the broader enumeration for service planning.
4
Which province of Pakistan has the highest 'Literacy Rate' according to census-linked surveys in 2024-2025?
Answer:
Punjab
Punjab consistently records the highest literacy rate among the provinces (around 66%). Literacy is a key indicator analyzed alongside population growth, as there is a direct correlation between higher literacy (especially female education) and lower population growth rates.
5
The 'Missing Women' phenomenon in the Pakistani census refers to:
Answer:
Under-reporting of females in certain conservative or remote areas
In many South Asian countries including Pakistan, census data often shows fewer women than expected. This is attributed to 'under-counting' in conservative regions where male heads of households may not report all female members to strangers (enumerators), a challenge the digital census tried to overcome with female staff.
6
Which of these is the primary reason for 'Internal Migration' in Pakistan?
Answer:
All of the above
Internal migration in Pakistan is multifaceted. While economic pull factors of cities like Lahore and Karachi are dominant, 'Climate Migrants' from the flooded Indus plains and 'Displaced Persons' from conflict zones have also significantly shaped the demographic shifts recorded in recent censuses.
7
The 2023 census results were approved by the CCI during the tenure of which Prime Minister?
Answer:
Shahbaz Sharif
The CCI meeting that officially approved the 2023 Digital Census results was chaired by PM Shahbaz Sharif in August 2023, just before the dissolution of the National Assembly. This approval was a landmark decision that allowed for the subsequent 2024 elections to be held under the new data.
8
What percentage of Pakistan's population is estimated to be under the age of 30 as of 2025?
Answer:
64%
Approximately 64% of Pakistan's population is under the age of 30. This makes Pakistan one of the 'youngest' countries in the world. The socio-economic future of the country depends on how effectively this large youth population is integrated into the productive labour force.
9
Which age group is traditionally considered 'Dependents' in population analysis for Pakistan?
Answer:
Under 15 and over 65
In demography, children under 15 and adults over 65 are considered the 'Dependent' population as they usually rely on the working-age population (15-64). Pakistan's high dependency ratio is a significant economic burden because of the very high number of children.
10
In 2025, Pakistan's 'Life Expectancy' is estimated at approximately:
Answer:
67-68 years
Despite health challenges, life expectancy in Pakistan has gradually improved due to better immunization and medical care, now standing at approximately 67 to 68 years. However, this is still lower than the average in many neighboring countries.