PPSC Past Paper 2024

Satpara Lake is a renowned natural lake in Pakistan, famous for its stunning turquoise waters and the surrounding mountainous landscape. It is a significant geographical feature, not only for its beauty but also for its role in local water resources and power generation through the Satpara Dam.

The famous Satpara Lake is located in the Skardu Valley of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. Situated at an altitude of about 2,636 meters (8,650 feet) above sea level, it is fed by the melting waters of the Deosai Plains. The lake's outflow forms the Satpara Stream, which is a tributary of the Indus River. The Satpara Dam, built on this lake, provides hydroelectric power and irrigation water to the region.

• AJK (Azad Jammu and Kashmir) is a separate administrative territory with its own beautiful lakes, but Satpara is not among them.
• KPK (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) is a province known for its diverse geography and several lakes, but Satpara Lake is not situated within its boundaries.
• Punjab, a largely plains region, has some lakes but does not host the high-altitude Satpara Lake.

The question, likely containing a typo, asks about the maximum number of players (interpreted from "prayers") each team shall have in court during a Basketball game. Basketball is a team sport played by two teams, with specific rules governing the number of players on the court at any given time.

The correct answer is A: 5. According to the official rules of basketball, each team is allowed to have a maximum of five players on the court simultaneously during a game. This is a fundamental rule that defines the game's structure, strategy, and flow. Having more or fewer players on the court than allowed results in a penalty.

• B: 6, C: 7, and D: 8 are incorrect. While teams have larger rosters with substitutes, only five players from each team can be on the court at any one time. Six players are common in sports like volleyball, but not basketball.

Pakistan gained independence in August 1947, and its journey in international sports began almost immediately. The first Olympic Games after its independence were the 1948 Summer Olympics held in London. Pakistan made its Olympic debut at these games, sending a contingent of athletes to represent the newly formed nation. Among the teams that participated, the Pakistan hockey team was notably present, marking its first appearance on the global Olympic stage.

Therefore, 1948 is the correct answer. The other years mentioned represent significant milestones for Pakistan in Olympic hockey, but not their debut. In 1956, Pakistan won its first Olympic medal, a silver in hockey, at the Melbourne Games. In 1960, Pakistan achieved its first Olympic gold medal, triumphing in hockey at the Rome Olympics. By 1964, Pakistan secured another silver medal in hockey at the Tokyo Games. These were all subsequent participations, not the initial one.

Glaciers are massive, slow-moving bodies of ice formed from compacted snow, playing a crucial role in the Earth's climate system and water cycle. The Karakoram mountain range, where the Chogo Lungma Glacier is found, is home to some of the world's largest glaciers outside the polar regions.

The Chogo Lungma Glacier is a significant glacier located in the Karakoram mountain range, specifically within the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. This region is renowned for its vast glacial systems, which are vital sources of freshwater for the Indus River and its tributaries. The glacier is part of a complex network of ice and mountains that define the high-altitude geography of northern Pakistan.

• Tajikistan is a Central Asian country known for its own extensive glaciers, particularly in the Pamir Mountains, but Chogo Lungma is not found there.
• Afghanistan also has glaciers, primarily in the Hindu Kush mountain range, but Chogo Lungma is not located within its borders.
• Therefore, 'None of these' is incorrect, as Pakistan is the correct geographical location for the Chogo Lungma Glacier.

The question asks about the discovery of the sea route to India, a pivotal moment in global history that reshaped trade and exploration. Vasco da Gama, a Portuguese explorer, is correctly credited with this monumental achievement. In 1498, he successfully navigated around the southern tip of Africa, the Cape of Good Hope, and reached Calicut, India. This established a direct maritime trade route between Europe and Asia, bypassing the traditional overland routes controlled by the Ottoman Empire and Venetian merchants.

• Hopkins is not a recognized figure in the history of major European explorations to India.
• Columbus (Christopher Columbus) famously sailed west in 1492, believing he could reach Asia, but instead landed in the Americas, never reaching India.
• Magellan (Ferdinand Magellan) led the first expedition to circumnavigate the Earth, sailing west across the Pacific, but he did not discover the sea route to India.

The Hockey World Cup is the premier international field hockey competition, organized by the International Hockey Federation (FIH). The inaugural Men's Hockey World Cup tournament was held in 1971. This historic event took place in Barcelona, Spain, bringing together the best hockey nations from around the globe to compete for the coveted title. It was a landmark moment for the sport, establishing a new pinnacle of international competition.

Pakistan emerged as the champion of this very first Hockey World Cup in 1971, defeating the host nation Spain in a thrilling final match. This victory cemented Pakistan's status as a dominant force in international hockey during that era. The other options are incorrect because they did not win the inaugural tournament. India won its first World Cup in 1975. The Netherlands won their first World Cup in 1973. Australia, while a strong hockey nation, won its first World Cup much later in 1986. Thus, Pakistan holds the distinction of being the first-ever Hockey World Cup winner.

The question asks for the specific designation of the Lahore-Abdul Hakeem motorway within Pakistan's national network. Motorways in Pakistan are identified by an 'M' followed by a number, each corresponding to a unique route.

The correct answer is B: M3. The M3 motorway is indeed the route that connects Lahore to Abdul Hakeem. This motorway is a vital artery in Punjab, facilitating efficient travel and trade between these significant cities and contributing to the overall connectivity of the region.

• A: M2 is incorrect because the M2 motorway connects Lahore to Islamabad, a different and much longer route.
• C: M4 is incorrect as the M4 motorway connects Pindi Bhattian to Multan, serving a different corridor.
• D: M5 is incorrect because the M5 motorway links Multan to Sukkur, extending further south in the country.

Each motorway designation is unique to its specific geographical path, making M3 the accurate identification for the Lahore-Abdul Hakeem section.

The 'Age of Imperialism' refers to a period of aggressive expansion and formal colonization by European powers, and later the United States and Japan, into vast territories in Africa and Asia. This era began in earnest in the Nineteenth Century. Specifically, the latter half of the 19th century, often termed the 'New Imperialism' (roughly from the 1870s to the early 20th century), saw an unprecedented 'Scramble for Africa' and intensified control over Asian territories, driven by industrialization, the search for raw materials, and new markets.

• The Seventeenth Century saw earlier forms of colonialism, primarily in the Americas, but not the intense, widespread formal imperialism of the later period.
• The Eighteenth Century continued these colonial patterns, but the peak of aggressive, formal imperial expansion was yet to come.
• While imperialism continued into the early Twentieth Century, its *beginning in earnest* was firmly rooted in the preceding century, with decolonization largely occurring post-World War II.

The 1973 Constitution of Pakistan is a foundational document that outlines the country's governance structure. Initially, it reserved 10 seats for women in the National Assembly for a period of 10 years to ensure their representation. However, significant amendments over time, particularly the Legal Framework Order (LFO) of 2002, dramatically increased this number. The LFO 2002, introduced by General Pervez Musharraf, aimed to enhance women's political participation by reserving 60 seats for women in the National Assembly. This was a substantial increase, reflecting a commitment to greater gender inclusivity in the legislative process.

The options 20 and 50 are incorrect as they do not correspond to the actual number of reserved seats for women in the National Assembly under the 1973 Constitution, even with its major amendments. Therefore, None of these is also incorrect because 60 is the precise number established through constitutional amendments.

The question categorizes cotton based on its economic purpose in Pakistan. Crops are generally classified into different types depending on their primary use, such as food, fiber, or industrial raw material.

The correct answer is B: Cash. Cotton is fundamentally a cash crop in Pakistan. A cash crop is cultivated primarily for sale in the market to generate profit, rather than for direct consumption by the grower. Pakistan is one of the world's leading cotton producers, and its cultivation is a cornerstone of the country's agricultural economy, providing raw material for the textile industry and significant export revenue.

• A: Food is incorrect because cotton is not grown for human or animal consumption; its primary product is fiber.
• C: Synthetic is incorrect as synthetic materials are man-made (e.g., nylon, polyester) and not naturally grown crops. Cotton is a natural fiber.
• D: Compound is incorrect because 'compound' refers to a substance formed from two or more elements and is not a classification for crops in this context.

Therefore, cotton's role as a major revenue-generating agricultural product firmly places it in the 'cash crop' category.

Buckingham Palace is one of the most iconic and recognizable royal residences globally. It is the official London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in Westminster, London, it serves as a focal point for national celebrations and crises, and is a major tourist attraction. The palace is a powerful symbol of the British monarchy and its rich history, having been the official residence of the UK's sovereigns since Queen Victoria's accession in 1837.

• France is a republic and does not have a reigning royal family; its historical royal residence was the Palace of Versailles.
• Germany is also a republic and does not have a royal family or a royal residence akin to Buckingham Palace.
• Therefore, 'None of these' is incorrect, as the United Kingdom is the correct answer.

Article 370 of the Indian Constitution granted special autonomous status to the region of Jammu and Kashmir, allowing it to have its own constitution, flag, and significant legislative powers. This provision was a cornerstone of the relationship between Jammu and Kashmir and the Indian Union since 1949. The Indian government, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took a landmark decision to abrogate Article 370 on August 5, 2019. This move effectively revoked Jammu and Kashmir's special status, integrating it more fully into India and reorganizing the state into two union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

The options August 2016 and September 2020 are incorrect. While there have been various political developments and discussions surrounding Jammu and Kashmir at different times, the specific act of eliminating Article 370 occurred in August 2019. Therefore, None of these is also an incorrect choice as the correct date is provided.

Ernest Hemingway was a highly influential and celebrated figure in 20th-century literature and journalism. He belongs to America, having been born in Oak Park, Illinois, United States. Hemingway is renowned for his distinctive minimalist prose style and his works, which often explored themes of war, love, loss, and masculinity. He was a prominent member of the 'Lost Generation' and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1954 for his mastery of the art of narrative.

• Colombia is known for authors like Gabriel García Márquez, not Hemingway.
• While Hemingway spent significant time in Europe, he was not from England; he was an American expatriate.
• Hemingway lived in Cuba for many years and drew inspiration from the country, but he was not Cuban by nationality.

Rohtas Fort is a magnificent 16th-century fortress located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It was built by the Pashtun king Sher Shah Suri, the founder of the Sur Empire, between 1541 and 1548. The fort's primary purpose was to crush the local Gakhar tribes, who were allies of the Mughal emperor Humayun, and to prevent Humayun's return to India after his defeat by Sher Shah. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its massive defensive walls, impressive gates, and strategic location. The fort is situated approximately 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of the city of Jhelum, near the Grand Trunk Road.

The options Multan and Bahawalpur are incorrect. Both are significant cities in Pakistan's Punjab province, but they are located much further south and west of Rohtas Fort. Multan is known for its Sufi shrines, and Bahawalpur for its palaces and desert. Neither is in the vicinity of Rohtas Fort. Thus, None of these is also incorrect as Jhelum is the correct nearby city.

Boko Haram is a notorious Islamic extremist group that has caused immense devastation and instability in West Africa. The group is primarily based in North Eastern Nigeria. Officially known as Jamā'at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da'wah wa'l-Jihād, Boko Haram launched its insurgency in 2009 with the aim of establishing an Islamic state governed by Sharia law. Its activities, including kidnappings, bombings, and massacres, have also spread to neighboring countries like Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, making it a significant regional threat.

• Syria is associated with other prominent extremist groups like ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria), not Boko Haram.
• Thailand faces its own distinct insurgencies, particularly in its southern provinces, which are unrelated to Boko Haram.
• Therefore, 'None of these' is incorrect, as North Eastern Nigeria is the established base of the group.

The acronym PCO, in the context of General Pervez Musharraf's actions in Pakistan, stands for Provisional Constitutional Order. General Musharraf issued the PCO on October 14, 1999, following his military coup that overthrew the elected government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. This order effectively suspended the 1973 Constitution of Pakistan, dismissed the President, the National Assembly, and provincial assemblies, and established a new legal framework under military rule. The PCO was a temporary measure designed to legitimize Musharraf's takeover and provide a constitutional basis for his administration until a new constitutional order could be established or the original constitution restored with modifications.

The options Provincial Constitutional Order and Provincial Constitutional Ordinance are incorrect because the order was national in scope, not limited to provinces, making 'Provincial' inaccurate. Provisional Constitutional Ordinance is also incorrect because while an ordinance is a type of law, the specific legal instrument issued was an 'Order,' not an 'Ordinance,' and this distinction is crucial in legal terminology.

The United Nations (UN) is a crucial international organization established to promote international cooperation and maintain global peace and security. It was officially founded in 1945. Specifically, the UN Charter was signed on June 26, 1945, and came into force on October 24, 1945, following its ratification by the five permanent members of the Security Council (China, France, the Soviet Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States) and a majority of other signatories. The UN was created in the aftermath of World War II to prevent future global conflicts.

• While preliminary discussions and planning for the UN, such as the Dumbarton Oaks Conference, occurred in 1944, the organization was not officially founded that year.
• By 1946 and 1947, the United Nations was already established and actively engaged in its initial operations, having been founded the previous year.

and advocating for a separate Muslim state, but he was not the designer of the national flag. Therefore, None of these is also an incorrect choice as Amirudin Kidwai is the correct designer.

Big Ben is the iconic nickname for the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England. It is one of the most famous landmarks globally, synonymous with the city and the United Kingdom. The clock tower itself is officially known as Elizabeth Tower. Therefore, London is the correct location.

• Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, known for its historic Old Town Square and Charles Bridge, but not Big Ben.
• Budapest is the capital of Hungary, famous for its thermal baths and the Parliament Building, distinct from London's landmarks.
• Bombay (now Mumbai) is a major city in India, a bustling metropolis with its own unique cultural and architectural heritage, entirely separate from European capitals.

The Arya Samaj was a significant Hindu reform movement founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati. Its primary aim was to revive Vedic values and practices, advocating for a return to the original teachings of the Vedas while rejecting idolatry, the caste system, child marriage, and other social evils prevalent in Hinduism at the time.

The correct answer is 1875. Swami Dayananda Saraswati officially established the Arya Samaj on April 10, 1875, in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. This date marks the formal beginning of a movement that profoundly impacted Hindu society and contributed to the Indian nationalist awakening.

The other options are incorrect: 1874, 1877, and 1878 are close but do not correspond to the actual founding year of the Arya Samaj. While the movement gained momentum and expanded its influence in the years following its establishment, its foundational year remains unequivocally 1875.

The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict is a deeply rooted ethnic and territorial dispute primarily between Armenia and Azerbaijan. This volatile region, internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but historically populated by ethnic Armenians, has been a flashpoint for decades. The conflict escalated into full-scale wars multiple times, most notably in the early 1990s, 2020, and 2023, directly involving the armed forces of both nations. Therefore, Armenia and Azerbaijan is the accurate answer.

• Russia and Ukraine are engaged in a separate, ongoing geopolitical conflict.
• China and India have long-standing border disputes in the Himalayas.
• The conflict between Israel and Palestine is centered in the Middle East, involving complex historical and religious factors.

These are distinct international issues unrelated to Nagorno-Karabakh.

The Constitution of Pakistan, adopted in 1973, is the supreme law of the land, outlining the structure of the government and the rights of its citizens. It clearly defines the roles of various state functionaries, including the President and the Prime Minister.

The correct answer is Article 41. Specifically, Article 41(1) of the 1973 Constitution states, "There shall be a President of Pakistan who shall be the Head of the State and shall represent the unity of the Republic." This article unequivocally establishes the President as the ceremonial head of state, symbolizing national unity, while the Prime Minister serves as the head of government.

The other options are incorrect: Article 370 is not part of Pakistan's 1973 Constitution; it refers to a specific article in the Indian Constitution concerning Jammu and Kashmir. Article 90 of the 1973 Constitution deals with the exercise of executive authority by the Federal Government, not the President's role as head of state. Therefore, "None of these" is also incorrect as Article 41 precisely addresses the question.