UPSC Prelims 2006 Q40: Current Affairs – Disasters & Humanitarian Issues
What was the main reason for which Niger was in the news in recent times?
- (a) Many deaths due to AIDS
- (b) Fierce civil war
- (c) Intense fighting with Algeria
- (d) Famine and starvation
Answer: (d) Famine and starvation
Explanation
Why Niger was in the news (2005)
| Option | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Many deaths due to AIDS | Not the main reason |
| Fierce civil war | No major civil war in 2005 |
| Intense fighting with Algeria | No such conflict |
| Famine and starvation | Yes, the 2005 food crisis in Niger drew global attention |
In 2005 Niger, a Sahel country, suffered a severe famine after drought and locust damage, which put millions at risk of starvation.
Answer: (d) Famine and starvation.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. AIDS was not the main reason Niger made news in 2005.
- (b) Incorrect. There was no fierce civil war in Niger in 2005.
- (c) Incorrect. There was no intense fighting between Niger and Algeria.
- (d) CORRECT. Niger faced a severe famine and starvation crisis in 2005.
Key point
Niger made news in 2005 mainly because of famine and starvation after drought and locust damage.
Remember
Niger in the news: famine and starvation.
Common mistakes
- Choosing civil war, which fits other African countries of the period.
- Confusing Niger with its neighbour Nigeria.
- Overlooking the Sahel drought link.
Exam tip
Niger (Sahel) = 2005 food crisis; Nigeria = different country.
Sources
- United Nations — Niger Flash Appeal 2005 (UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs)
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Niger