Explanation: The headquarters (Secretariat) of SAARC is located in Kathmandu, Nepal. It was established on January 16, 1987. The Secretariat coordinates and monitors the implementation of SAARC activities. The Secretary-General heads the Secretariat.
2
Which country is known as the 'Land of Cakes'?
✅ Correct Answer:Scotland
Explanation: Scotland is historically known as the 'Land of Cakes'. This refers to its famous oatmeal cakes (bannocks). The name was popularized by the poet Robert Burns. It does not refer to sweet cream cakes, but rather traditional oat-based bread.
3
The 'Dead Sea' is located between:
✅ Correct Answer:Jordan and Israel
Explanation: The Dead Sea is a salt lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel to the west. It is the lowest point on Earth's surface. Its high salt concentration allows people to float effortlessly. No fish or plants can survive in it.
4
Who was the first Governor General of Pakistan?
✅ Correct Answer:Muhammad Ali Jinnah
Explanation: Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was the first Governor-General of Pakistan. He served from independence on August 14, 1947, until his death on September 11, 1948. He is also known as the Baba-i-Qaum (Father of the Nation).
5
Which country has no river?
✅ Correct Answer:Saudi Arabia
Explanation: Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the world without any permanent rivers. The country relies on wadis (valleys that are dry except in the rainy season) and desalination plants for water. Underground aquifers are also a major source.
6
The 'Bermuda Triangle' is located in:
✅ Correct Answer:Atlantic Ocean
Explanation: The Bermuda Triangle is a region in the western part of the North Atlantic Ocean. It is loosely defined by points in Miami, Bermuda, and Puerto Rico. A number of aircraft and ships are said to have disappeared there under mysterious circumstances.
7
What is the capital of Malaysia?
✅ Correct Answer:Kuala Lumpur
Explanation: Kuala Lumpur is the national capital of Malaysia. It is home to the Petronas Twin Towers, which were once the tallest buildings in the world. The city is the cultural, financial, and economic centre of Malaysia. 'Putrajaya' serves as the administrative center.
8
Which country is called the 'Sick Man of Europe'?
✅ Correct Answer:Turkey
Explanation: The 'Sick Man of Europe' was a label given to the Ottoman Empire (modern Turkey) in the 19th century. It referred to the empire's declining economic and military power. The term was first used by Tsar Nicholas I of Russia.
9
The largest producer of tea in the world is:
✅ Correct Answer:China
Explanation: China is the largest producer of tea in the world. Tea originated in China thousands of years ago. It produces various types including green, black, and oolong tea. India is the second-largest producer.
10
What is the name of the border between India and China?
✅ Correct Answer:McMahon Line
Explanation: The McMahon Line is the boundary line between Tibet (China) and North-east India. It was agreed upon in 1914 at the Simla Convention. China disputes this border, claiming the territory south of the line. It remains a source of tension.
11
The 'Reuters' is the news agency of:
✅ Correct Answer:UK
Explanation: Reuters is an international news organization owned by Thomson Reuters. Its headquarters are in London, United Kingdom. It was founded in 1851 by Paul Reuter. It is one of the largest and most trusted news agencies in the world.
12
Which country is called the 'Playground of Europe'?
✅ Correct Answer:Switzerland
Explanation: Switzerland is known as the 'Playground of Europe'. This nickname comes from its beautiful landscapes, mountains (Alps), and winter sports facilities. It is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and tourism. It is also famous for its neutrality.
13
The world's longest railway line is:
✅ Correct Answer:Trans-Siberian Railway
Explanation: The Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world. It connects Moscow with the Russian Far East. It has a length of 9,289 kilometers. It spans eight time zones and takes about a week to travel the full distance.
14
Which organization has the motto 'Unity, Faith, Discipline'?
✅ Correct Answer:Government of Pakistan
Explanation: The motto 'Unity, Faith, Discipline' (Iman, Ittihad, Nazm) is the national motto of Pakistan. It was given by the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. These three words serve as guiding principles for the nation.
15
The 'Khyber Pass' connects Pakistan with:
✅ Correct Answer:Afghanistan
Explanation: The Khyber Pass is a mountain pass connecting Pakistan and Afghanistan. It cuts through the Spin Ghar mountains. It has been an integral part of the ancient Silk Road. It has great historical and strategic importance for trade and military invasions.
16
Who is called the 'Father of History'?
✅ Correct Answer:Herodotus
Explanation: Herodotus, a Greek historian, is known as the 'Father of History'. He lived in the 5th century BC. He wrote 'The Histories', a detailed account of the Greco-Persian Wars. He was the first writer to collect materials systematically and test them.
17
What is the capital of China?
✅ Correct Answer:Beijing
Explanation: Beijing is the capital city of the People's Republic of China. It is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is the political, cultural, and educational center of the country. It has hosted both the Summer (2008) and Winter (2022) Olympics.
18
The 'Black Sea' is located between:
✅ Correct Answer:Europe and Asia
Explanation: The Black Sea is an inland sea located between Southeastern Europe and Western Asia. It is bordered by Ukraine, Russia, Georgia, Turkey, Bulgaria, and Romania. It connects to the Mediterranean Sea via the Bosphorus Strait.
19
Which country was formerly known as 'Ceylon'?
✅ Correct Answer:Sri Lanka
Explanation: Sri Lanka was known as Ceylon under British rule. The name was officially changed to 'Republic of Sri Lanka' in 1972. The name 'Ceylon' is still used in the tea trade (Ceylon Tea). It is an island nation in South Asia.
20
The 'Wall Street' is famous for:
✅ Correct Answer:Stock Exchange
Explanation: Wall Street is an eight-block-long street in New York City. It is the home of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ. It has become a metonym for the financial markets of the United States. It represents global finance and investment.