Explanation

• The Government of India Act 1935 served as Pakistan’s interim constitutional framework after independence in 1947, with necessary adaptations.
• Pakistan operated under this framework until the Constitution of 1956 came into force on 23 March 1956.
• The Act originally provided for a federal structure and provincial autonomy in British India.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to experience the fastest population growth among the major world regions.
• Its population growth is driven by relatively high fertility rates and a young population.

Additional information:

• In contrast, population growth in East Asia has slowed considerably, and some countries are experiencing population decline.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• Russia expanded westward to create strategic depth, increasing the distance between its core territories and potential invading armies.
• The open plains of Eastern Europe offered few natural barriers, making buffer territories important for defence.
• Historical invasions by Napoleon in 1812 and Nazi Germany in 1941 reinforced Russian concerns about western approaches.
• Strategic depth provides more space to mobilize forces, organize defence, and delay an advancing enemy.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• Iran lies along the northern coast of the Persian Gulf and borders the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil-transit chokepoint.
• The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
• Iran’s location gives it strategic importance for international energy supplies, maritime trade, and regional security.
• A significant share of the world’s seaborne oil trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• Pakistan supports an independent and sovereign Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif (East Jerusalem) as its capital.
• This position is consistent with the internationally discussed two-state solution.
• The territorial reference is the pre-June 1967 lines, before Israel occupied the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip during the Six-Day War.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• On 1 August 2026, Pakistan welcomed positive developments under the Board of Peace for implementing the Gaza Peace Plan.
• Pakistan appreciated the mediation efforts of the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye.
• Pakistan emphasized Palestinian self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• Afghanistan became SAARC’s 8th member in 2007 at the 14th SAARC Summit in New Delhi, India.

Additional information:

• SAARC was established on 8 December 1985 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
• Its founding members were Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
• SAARC’s Secretariat is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• Semiconductors are vital for computers, smartphones, vehicles, weapons, and AI.
• The US and China compete over chip technology, manufacturing, and exports.
• Advanced chips are crucial for national security and economic competitiveness.
• Taiwan is a major hub for advanced chip manufacturing.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• NDCs are national climate action plans submitted by countries under the Paris Agreement.
• Countries outline their targets and measures for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
• Under the Paris Agreement, countries must communicate updated NDCs every five years, reflecting progression and their highest possible ambition.
• The Paris Agreement aims to keep global warming well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• The Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 and entered into force on 16 February 2005 under the UNFCCC.
• It followed Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR), requiring developed countries to lead emission reductions due to their historical emissions and greater resources.
• It set legally binding greenhouse-gas reduction targets for developed countries and economies in transition, not the same targets for all developing countries.
• First commitment period: 2008–2012.
• Second commitment period: 2013–2020, under the Doha Amendment.

Last verified on 21-10-2026