UPSC Prelims 2004 Q82: Current Affairs – International Conflicts & Security
The reason for Chechnya to be in the news recently is
- (a) Discovery of huge reserves of oil
- (b) Separatist rebellious activities by the local people
- (c) Continuous conflict between the Government troops and the narcotic mafia resulting in a great loss of human life
- (d) Intense cold wave killing hundreds of people
Answer: (b) Separatist rebellious activities by the local people
Explanation
Chechnya in the news
| Option | Link with Chechnya |
|---|---|
| Separatist rebellion by the local people | Yes — Chechen separatists against Russia |
| Discovery of oil | No |
| Conflict with a narcotic mafia | No |
| Cold wave | No |
Chechnya is a republic of Russia whose separatist rebellion has kept it in the news.
Answer: (b) Separatist rebellious activities by the local people.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Oil discoveries were not the news from Chechnya.
- (b) CORRECT. Chechnya's separatist rebellion was the issue.
- (c) Incorrect. The conflict is not with a narcotic mafia.
- (d) Incorrect. A cold wave was not the news.
Key point
Chechnya: Grozny, wars 1994-96 and 1999 onwards, North Caucasus.
Remember
Chechnya's separatist rebellion has been a conflict with Russia.
Common mistakes
- Linking Chechnya with oil because of the Caspian region.
- Mixing Chechnya up with Kosovo in Europe.
- Forgetting that it is a part of the Russian Federation.
Exam tip
Chechnya: Muslim-majority republic of Russia seeking independence.
Sources
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Chechnya
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Chechen Wars