UGC NET/JRF EXAM, Politics Including International Relations and Studies JUNE-2025 (PAPER-II)

Total Questions: 100

21. Which country is NOT part of 12U2?

Correct Answer: 1. Indonesia
Solution:I2U2 is a strategic partnership grouping consisting of:

• India
• Israel
• United Arab Emirates (UAE)
• United States

This partnership focuses on economic cooperation in areas like food security, water, energy, transport, and technology. The group was launched in 2021 and is sometimes referred to as the “West Asian Quad.” Indonesia is not a member of I2U2.

22. When was Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed?

Correct Answer: 3. 1950
Solution:The Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship was signed on 31 July 1950. This treaty forms the foundation of the special relationship between India and Nepal, allowing for:

• Free movement of people and goods,
• Reciprocal rights of residence, property ownership, and trade,
• Mutual cooperation in defense and foreign affairs.

23. Who is the main proponent of the 'World Systems Theory'?

Correct Answer: 3. Immanuel Wallerstein
Solution:The World Systems Theory was developed by Immanuel Wallerstein. It analyzes the world economy as a complex system divided into core, periphery, and semi-periphery countries.

The theory emphasizes the exploitative relationships between developed (core) and developing (periphery) nations and provides a framework for understanding global inequality.

24. When did Bhutan hold its first democratic election to its National Assembly?

Correct Answer: 2. 2008
Solution:Bhutan held its first democratic National Assembly elections in March 2008, transitioning from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy.

This historic election marked the formal beginning of democracy in Bhutan, as envisioned and initiated by King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

25. Where was the first Afro-Asian Conference held?

Correct Answer: 1. Bandung
Solution:The first Afro-Asian Conference was held in Bandung, Indonesia, in 1955. Commonly known as the Bandung Conference, it brought together leaders from 29 Asian and African countries to promote economic and cultural cooperation and oppose colonialism and neocolonialism during the Cold War era.

26. Who is the author of Neo-colonialism: The Last Stage of Imperialism?

Correct Answer: 2. Kwame Nkrumah
Solution:The book “Neo-colonialism: The Last Stage of Imperialism” was written by Kwame Nkrumah, the first President of Ghana and a prominent anti-colonial leader.

Published in 1965, the book critiques how former colonial powers continued to exploit developing countries economically and politically even after independence, through multinational corporations and foreign aid mechanisms.

27. Under which treaty the European Union was established?

Correct Answer: 1. Maastricht Treaty
Solution:The European Union (EU) was formally established under the Maastricht Treaty, also known as the Treaty on European Union, which was signed on 7 February 1992 and came into force on 1 November 1993.

The treaty marked a new stage in European integration by creating the EU and introducing the euro as a common currency (later adopted by many member states).

28. Which country is the newest member of NATO?

Correct Answer: 1. Sweden
Solution:The newest member of NATO is Sweden, which officially joined the alliance in March 2024. Sweden’s entry followed Finland’s accession in April 2023.

Both Nordic countries pursued NATO membership following heightened security concerns after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Sweden’s membership was approved after overcoming opposition from Turkey and Hungary.

29. Which is NOT true of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (СРЕС)?

Correct Answer: 1. СРЕСC was launched in 2013.
Solution:The China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was proposed in 2013, but the official launch with $46 billion in agreements occurred in April 2015 during President Xi Jinping’s visit to Pakistan. So, saying it was launched in 2013 is not entirely accurate. Other statements are true:

• CPEC connects Xinjiang to Gwadar.
• It is part of the BRI.
• India opposes it due to sovereignty concerns.

30. Who is the proponent of 'Heartland Theory'?

Correct Answer: 2. Halford Mackinder
Solution:The Heartland Theory was proposed by Sir Halford Mackinder in 1904. According to his theory, the “Heartland” — the central region of Eurasia — holds the key to global dominance. He famously stated:
  • Who rules East Europe commands the Heartland;
  • Who rules the Heartland commands the World Island;
  • Who rules the World Island commands the world.”

This theory has had a lasting impact on geopolitical thought.