The correct answer is (C) 65 million

A recent UN report reveals that over 65 million people in the Horn of Africa are food insecure. The region is highly affected by food shortages due to its arid climate, frequent droughts, and political instability, which have intensified food insecurity. The Horn of Africa includes countries such as Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia. Broader definitions of the region sometimes include parts or all of Kenya, Sudan, and Uganda. This region’s ongoing humanitarian crises underscore the urgency for international support and assistance.

The correct answer is (A) Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia

The Horn of Africa, in its narrow geographical definition, consists of Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia. This region is located in the horn-shaped part of northeastern Africa and is known for its arid climate and geopolitical importance. Broader definitions of the Horn of Africa sometimes include Kenya, Sudan, and Uganda, given their proximity and shared environmental and socio-economic challenges. Due to its strategic location along the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, the Horn of Africa holds significant geopolitical importance.

The correct answer is (B) The presence of unique flora and fauna adapted to its arid climate

The Horn of Africa is recognized as a UNESCO Biodiversity Hotspot due to its unique flora and fauna adapted to the arid environment. Despite its harsh climate, the region supports diverse ecosystems, including endemic species found nowhere else in the world. The Horn’s biodiversity is threatened by climate change, deforestation, and human activities, which have put its ecosystems under pressure. UNESCO’s designation as a biodiversity hotspot highlights the region’s ecological importance and the need for conservation efforts to protect these unique habitats.

The correct answer is (C) Guardafui Channel

The Horn of Africa is bordered by the Guardafui Channel to the south, which connects it to the Indian Ocean. This geographic location, along with its proximity to the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, gives the Horn of Africa strategic importance in maritime trade routes, particularly those connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. The region’s location is of interest to both regional and global powers, who seek influence over these critical waterways.

The correct answer is (B) Manipur

The Thadou community is one of the oldest and largest non-Naga tribes in Manipur, India. Historically, they have practiced animistic rituals, although Christianity now plays a significant role in their lives. The Thadou language is part of the Tibeto-Burman language family and exhibits dialectal variations. The Thadous celebrate the Hun-Thadou Cultural Festival, showcasing their rich cultural heritage. Recently, the Thadou community extended support to the BJP-led state government’s initiative to implement the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Manipur.

The correct answer is (B) Economic integration and coordination of foreign policy

CARICOM, or the Caribbean Community, was established in 1973 with the signing of the Treaty of Chaguaramas. It aims to promote economic integration, cooperation, and foreign policy coordination among its member states. CARICOM’s 15 member countries and 5 associate members, primarily located in the Caribbean, work together on trade, security, and sustainable development. The organization’s secretariat is in Georgetown, Guyana, underscoring its commitment to unifying the region economically and politically.

The correct answer is (C) Georgetown, Guyana

The CARICOM Secretariat is headquartered in Georgetown, Guyana. Established in 1973, CARICOM is a regional organization focused on promoting economic integration, cooperation, and coordination of foreign policy among Caribbean member states. The Secretariat serves as the administrative body of CARICOM, working to implement the organization’s policies and objectives. The choice of Georgetown reflects CARICOM’s commitment to regional unity and support for the development of member states.

The correct answer is (D) Guatemala

The Caribbean Community and Common Market (CARICOM) is a political and economic union that aims to promote economic integration and cooperation among its members. The organization was established in 1973 by the Treaty of Chaguaramas, signed by Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Associate members

The correct answer is (D) Somalia

Part of the Horn of Africa is referred to as the Somali Peninsula, which mainly includes Somalia and parts of eastern Ethiopia. The peninsula is known for its historical and cultural ties to the Somali people and their unique socio-cultural identity in the region. Located in northeastern Africa, the Somali Peninsula extends into the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, making it an area of significant geopolitical interest. Somalia’s location also contributes to the Horn’s strategic importance in international trade.

The correct answer is (D) Tibeto-Burman

The Thadou language belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family and has multiple dialectal variations. This language family is common among several ethnic groups in northeastern India, including the Thadous, who are one of the largest non-Naga tribes in Manipur. The Thadou community has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional religious practices that have since evolved with the influence of Christianity. This connection to the Tibeto-Burman family reflects the Thadous’ historical ties to other groups in the Himalayan and northeastern Indian regions.

The correct answer is (C) 4th

If India is chosen to host the 2036 Olympics, it would become the 4th Asian country to host the event, following China, South Korea, and Japan. Hosting the Olympics would be a significant milestone for India, showcasing its infrastructure and organizational capabilities on a global stage. India faces competition from countries like Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Chile, Qatar, and Turkey, which are also vying for the opportunity. The decision regarding the host country will be made after the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) elections next year, adding anticipation to India’s historic bid.

The correct answer is (B) Kabaddi, kho-kho, and chess

India’s bid for the 2036 Olympics may feature traditional Indian sports like kabaddi, kho-kho, and chess. Including these sports aligns with India’s cultural heritage and aims to promote its unique athletic traditions on the global stage. Yoga is also considered, representing India’s contribution to holistic well-being. If successful, India’s Olympics would offer a diverse sporting lineup, celebrating both international and indigenous sports. This approach could boost India’s soft power and international image, enhancing the cultural experience for athletes and spectators worldwide.

The correct answer is (B) Los Angeles and Brisbane

Los Angeles is set to host the 2028 Olympic Games, while Brisbane has been selected for the 2032 Games. The Olympics are organized every four years, with host cities chosen through a bidding process that considers factors like infrastructure, security, and economic stability. Hosting the Games brings significant global attention and economic opportunities to the cities, while also posing logistical and financial challenges. The selection of Los Angeles and Brisbane reflects the IOC’s confidence in their capabilities to host such a large-scale international event.

The correct answer is (B) They symbolize the unity of continents through sport.

The five interlocking Olympic Rings represent the unity of the world’s continents—Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania—through sport. Designed by Pierre de Coubertin, the founder of the modern Olympics, the rings signify global harmony and solidarity in athletic competition. The rings appear in the official emblem of the Games, representing inclusiveness and peace. Along with the Olympic Flame, which is lit in Olympia and carried to the host city, the rings are an iconic symbol of the Games’ spirit of unity and excellence.

The correct answer is (B) To provide an e-platform for marginalized artisans to market their products

TULIP, launched by India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, aims to empower marginalized artisans, particularly from Scheduled Castes (SC), Other Backward Classes (OBC), sanitation workers, and persons with disabilities. Through an e-platform, TULIP enables these artisans to market their products on a global scale, helping them gain exposure and increase sales. This initiative seeks to provide these communities with economic opportunities, enhancing their livelihoods and promoting India’s rich artisanal heritage. TULIP aligns with government efforts to support marginalized groups through inclusive and sustainable development.

The correct answer is (C) Asian Development Bank (ADB)

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $200 million loan agreement with India for the Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project. This project aims to enhance infrastructure in cities like Haldwani, Champawat, and Kichha by upgrading roads, traffic management, flood controls, and water supply systems. ADB, founded in 1966 and headquartered in Manila, Philippines, focuses on fostering social and economic development across Asia and the Pacific. This partnership highlights ADB’s role in supporting sustainable urban infrastructure development in Indian states, particularly in ecologically sensitive regions like Uttarakhand.

The correct answer is (C) Manila, Philippines

The headquarters of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is at 6 ADB Avenue, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines. Established in 1966, ADB’s mission is to promote social and economic development across Asia and the Pacific through financial assistance, including loans, grants, and technical support. The institution’s largest shareholders are Japan and the United States, each holding a 15.6% stake. ADB has 68 member countries, with India being a founding member. The bank plays a critical role in funding developmental projects in the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing infrastructure, health, and economic resilience.

The correct answer is (B) Japan and the USA

Japan and the USA are the largest shareholders in the Asian Development Bank (ADB), each holding a 15.6% share as of 2023. These countries have significant influence over ADB’s strategic and operational directions. ADB, headquartered in Manila, provides financial assistance to support development in its member countries, particularly in Asia and the Pacific. This partnership emphasizes the vital roles Japan and the USA play in promoting social and economic development across the region through loans, technical assistance, and grants.

The correct answer is (D) Dehradun

The Uttarakhand Livability Improvement Project focuses on enhancing infrastructure in Haldwani, Champawat, Kichha, Kotdwar, and Vikasnagar. Dehradun is not part of this project. Supported by a $200 million loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the project will upgrade roads, traffic management, flood prevention, and water systems in these cities. The initiative aims to improve living conditions and strengthen urban infrastructure, particularly in Uttarakhand’s smaller cities, fostering sustainable urban development in this ecologically sensitive region.

The correct answer is (C) Faster, Higher, Stronger

The Olympic motto, “Citius, Altius, Fortius,” translates from Latin to “Faster, Higher, Stronger.” This phrase encapsulates the spirit of the Olympic Games, urging athletes to push their physical and mental limits in pursuit of excellence. Originating in ancient Greece, the modern Olympics were revived in 1896 in Athens and have since been held every four years, alternating between the Summer and Winter Games. The motto, along with symbols like the Olympic Rings and Flame, represents the values of sportsmanship, unity, and peace on the global stage.