IR - Miscellaneous News - COMPASS 2025 Flashcards

(86 cards)

1
Q

What is the Free Movement Regime (FMR)?

A

A mutually agreed arrangement between India and Myanmar allowing border tribes to travel up to 16 km without a visa.

The FMR was implemented in 2018 as part of India’s Act East policy.

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2
Q

What is the length of the border between India and Myanmar?

A

1,643 km

The border runs through the states of Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh.

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3
Q

When was the World Economic Forum (WEF) founded?

A

1971

Originally called the European Management Forum.

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4
Q

What is the concept of ‘stakeholder capitalism’ introduced by WEF?

A

A form of capitalism where companies seek long-term value creation by considering the needs of all stakeholders.

This contrasts with traditional capitalism focused solely on short-term profits for shareholders.

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5
Q

What is the Great Reset Initiative?

A

An economic recovery plan by WEF in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

It aims to rethink and reshape the global economy.

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6
Q

What is Jaish al-Adl?

A

A Sunni militant group founded in 2012 that operates primarily in Pakistan.

It is associated with attacks against Iranian security personnel.

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7
Q

What does the 123 Agreement between the USA and India entail?

A

India agreed to separate its civil and military nuclear facilities and place civil facilities under IAEA safeguards.

In exchange, the USA agreed to civil nuclear cooperation.

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8
Q

What is the purpose of the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project?

A

To connect Kolkata with Sittwe seaport in Myanmar, reducing transportation distance.

It links Sittwe to Paletwa and then to Mizoram.

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9
Q

What is the Europe Free Trade Association (EFTA)?

A

An intergovernmental organization established in 1960 to promote free trade among its members.

Members include Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

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10
Q

What is the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project (PMP)?

A

A bi-national hydropower project on the Mahakali River between India and Nepal.

It aims to provide regulated water for irrigation and flood control.

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11
Q

What does the Geneva Convention on Refugees define?

A

It defines who a refugee is and outlines their rights and the responsibilities of nations granting asylum.

The core principle is non-refoulement.

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12
Q

What is the main principle of the 1951 Refugee Convention?

A

Non-refoulement, which states that refugees should not be returned to countries where they face threats to life or freedom.

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13
Q

What are the exceptions to the 1951 Refugee Convention?

A

Persons suspected of war crimes, serious non-political crimes, or acts contrary to UN principles.

These individuals do not qualify for refugee protection.

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14
Q

What is the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) known for?

A

It is the second largest country in Africa, with a 25-mile coastline on the Atlantic Ocean.

The capital is Kinshasa.

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15
Q

What is the M23 group?

A

A militia formed by Tutsis in 2012 to defend against Hutu militias during conflicts in the DRC.

M23 stands for March 23 movement.

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16
Q

What does UNCTAD stand for?

A

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development.

It promotes the interests of developing countries in world trade.

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17
Q

What significant report did UNCTAD release regarding maritime trade?

A

A report indicating a 40% slump in ship transits through key maritime routes.

Factors include attacks by Houthi rebels and climate-induced droughts.

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18
Q

What is the role of the International Organization for Migration (IOM)?

A

To support humane migration and provide assistance to migrants globally.

It is part of the United Nations system.

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19
Q

Which countries are part of the Nordic-Baltic cooperation (NB8)?

A

Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Denmark, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

This cooperation format began in 1992.

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20
Q

What was formed by Tutsis to defend their interests against Hutu militias?

A

The group formed by Tutsis is not specified in the text.

This likely refers to the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) or similar groups.

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21
Q

What is the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

A

Kinshasa

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22
Q

What is the coastline length of the Democratic Republic of the Congo?

A

25 miles (40 km)

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23
Q

Which country is the largest in Africa?

A

Algeria

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24
Q

Which country granted a Line of Credit of $23.37 million to Guyana?

A

India

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25
What geographical features are important in Guyana?
* Pakaraima Mountains * Kanuku Mountains * Acarai Mountains * Kaieteur Falls * Mount Roraima * Essequibo River
26
What does ISA stand for?
International Seabed Authority
27
What must nations seek before conducting extraction activities in open ocean territories?
An exploration license from the International Seabed Authority (ISA)
28
What defines the 'Area' under ISA jurisdiction?
The seabed and ocean floor and the subsoil thereof, beyond the limits of national jurisdiction
29
What is the headquarters of the International Seabed Authority?
Kingston, Jamaica
30
What is the primary objective of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA)?
To provide aid to Palestinian refugees
31
How many member states are in the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF)?
18
32
What is the theme of the 5th BIMSTEC Summit held in 2022?
Towards a Resilient Region, Prosperous Economies, Healthy People
33
What is the Funan Techo Canal Project in Cambodia designed to connect?
Phnom Penh with the coastal town of Kep
34
What is the estimated cost of the Funan Techo Canal Project?
$1.7 billion
35
What is the annual numerical limit for H-1B visas?
85,000
36
What is a key requirement for H-1B visa eligibility?
At least a Bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field of study
37
What is the maximum duration for which H-1B status can be granted?
6 years
38
What is the significance of India's membership in the Minerals Security Finance Network (MSFN)?
To secure critical mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on China
39
What are some minerals focused on by the MSP and MSFN?
* Cobalt * Nickel * Lithium * 17 rare earth minerals
40
What is the main role of the Pacific Islands Forum?
To enhance regional cooperation and address issues affecting the Pacific region
41
What does the term 'Siliguri Corridor' refer to?
A narrow strip of land in West Bengal that connects the North-eastern States to the rest of India
42
Which organization is responsible for controlling mineral-resources-related activities in 'the Area'?
International Seabed Authority (ISA)
43
What is a key characteristic of membership in the United Nations?
Open to all peace-loving States that accept the obligations of the UN Charter
44
What must a country present to substantiate its claim for continental shelf extension?
Detailed scientific rationale and underwater maps and surveys
45
What is the role of the UNRWA established in 1949?
To support the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees
46
True or False: The United Nations can recognize a new State or Government.
False
47
What is the main outcome of the 5th BIMSTEC Summit?
Adoption and signing of the BIMSTEC Charter
48
What is the Siliguri Corridor?
A narrow strip of land in West Bengal, connecting the North-eastern States to the rest of India. ## Footnote It has a width of about 20 km and a length of 60 km.
49
What is the importance of the Siliguri Corridor?
* Only land route connecting eight northeastern states of India to the mainland * Key route for trade and commerce with neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan * Crucial for national security for military movement ## Footnote The states connected include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
50
Who was awarded the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2024?
Michelle Bachelet, former President of Chile. ## Footnote She is known for her work in human rights and gender equality.
51
What does the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize include?
* Cash award of Rs 25 lakh * Citation ## Footnote The prize is awarded annually to individuals or organizations for efforts towards peace, disarmament, and development.
52
What are the reasons for the US withdrawal from WHO?
* WHO criticized as ineffective and biased * Claims of discrimination against developed nations * Allegations of Chinese influence over WHO * US contributes 15% of WHO's annual funding ## Footnote The US President at the time was Donald Trump.
53
What is the World Health Organisation (WHO)?
A specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. ## Footnote Established in April 1948, it has 192 member states.
54
What is the aim of the Paris Climate Agreement?
To limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably 1.5°C, above pre-industrial levels. ## Footnote Adopted by 196 Parties in 2015.
55
What are India's climate targets for 2030?
* Emission intensity reduction: 45% from 2005 levels * Share of non-fossil fuels: 50% of installed electricity capacity * Carbon sink creation: 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes through afforestation ## Footnote Existing target was 33-35% for emission intensity and 40% for non-fossil fuels.
56
What was the major finding of the ILO report on international migrants in 2022?
Approximately 169 million international migrant workers recorded, accounting for 4.7% of the global workforce. ## Footnote This represents an increase from 164 million in 2017.
57
What is the Bharatpol portal?
A centralized digital platform for police and security agencies in India to connect with INTERPOL. ## Footnote Developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
58
What is the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID)?
A database to help agencies identify and monitor suspects, containing over 24 sets of data. ## Footnote Conceived after the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai.
59
What are the main criticisms of NATGRID?
* Possible violations of privacy * Concerns over leakage of confidential personal data ## Footnote The government asserts that adequate safeguards are in place.
60
What is the significance of Greenland?
World's largest island, mostly covered by ice, population of 57,000, and politically an autonomous territory of Denmark. ## Footnote It is geographically part of North America.
61
What is the Panama Canal?
A man-made sea route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, handling 6% of maritime trade volume. ## Footnote Officially opened in 1914.
62
What was the purpose of the Z-Morh Tunnel?
To provide year-round connectivity for tourism, trade, and military logistics between Gagangir and Sonamarg. ## Footnote It is 6.5 km long.
63
What is the Hague Service Convention?
An international treaty that standardizes the process of serving legal documents across borders. ## Footnote Established in 1965 and signed by 84 states.
64
What are the key features of the Hague Service Convention?
* Facilitates service of judicial documents * Central Authority designated in each member country * Primary method through Central Authority ## Footnote It ensures timely notice of legal proceedings.
65
What is the objective of the Crossroads for Peace Initiative?
To connect Armenia with neighboring countries for trade and infrastructure development. ## Footnote It aims to revitalize roads, railways, and pipelines.
66
What were the second India-Iran-Armenia Trilateral Consultations held?
In New Delhi in December 2024 ## Footnote Marked a significant step in advancing regional cooperation, connectivity, and trade.
67
What is the Crossroad of Peace Initiative?
A regional transport proposal aimed at connecting Armenia with its neighbouring countries ## Footnote Includes Turkey, Azerbaijan, Iran, and Georgia.
68
What is the main objective of the Crossroad of Peace Initiative?
To revitalize and develop crucial infrastructure like roads, railways, pipelines, cables, and electricity lines ## Footnote Facilitates the flow of goods, energy, and people across nations.
69
What geographical connections does the Crossroad of Peace Initiative aim to establish?
Caspian Sea to the Mediterranean Sea and Persian Gulf to the Black Sea ## Footnote Through easier and more efficient transportation links.
70
What significant meeting did External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar participate in?
First-ever Joint Ministerial Meeting of the L.69 and C-10 groupings ## Footnote On the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
71
When was the C10 grouping created and what is its origin?
Created in 2008 ## Footnote Originated from the Committee of Ten African Ministers of Finance and Central Bank Governors.
72
What is the mandate of the C10 grouping?
Advocating enhanced African participation in governance of international financial institutions (IFIs) ## Footnote Includes various African nations.
73
What is the origin of the L.69 grouping?
Established in 2007 by a group of developing countries ## Footnote To push for UN Security Council reform.
74
What does the L.69 grouping advocate for?
An expansion in both categories of UNSC membership to include more developing countries ## Footnote Reflects contemporary geopolitical realities.
75
Who hosted the global conference of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) in November 2024?
India ## Footnote Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘United Nations International Year of Cooperatives 2025’.
76
When was the International Cooperative Alliance founded?
In London in 1805 ## Footnote It has 306 member organisations across 105 countries.
77
Who was appointed chairperson of the UN Internal Justice Council (IJC)?
Retired Supreme Court judge Justice Madan B. Lokur ## Footnote Ensures independence and accountability of the UN's internal justice system.
78
What is the purpose of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty?
To harmonise procedures and simplify registration processes of industrial designs in different countries ## Footnote Strengthens India's intellectual property ecosystem.
79
What does the Riyadh Design Law Treaty promote?
Innovation and creativity, especially among SMEs, startups, and independent designers ## Footnote Aims to harmonize industrial design protection processes globally.
80
What is one advantage of the Riyadh Design Law Treaty?
Provides a mechanism to restore rights in case of lapses ## Footnote Ensures that applicants can recover lost opportunities.
81
What does the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) do?
Serves the world’s innovators and creators, ensuring their ideas travel safely to the market ## Footnote Established in 1967, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
82
What is the Cascais Declaration associated with?
The 10th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) ## Footnote Promotes principles of tolerance and peaceful existence.
83
What is the goal of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)?
Promoting intercultural and interreligious dialogue to counter extremism ## Footnote Launched in 2005, co-sponsored by Spain and Turkey.
84
Name a key objective of UNAOC.
Countering Extremism ## Footnote Also addresses radicalization and fosters tolerance.
85
What is the Youth Solidarity Fund?
Provides grants for youth-led peacebuilding projects ## Footnote Part of UNAOC's major activities.
86
True or False: The Riyadh Design Law Treaty allows applicants to file multiple designs in a single application.
True ## Footnote Saves time and costs for applicants.