UPSC Prelims 2006 Q9: Current Affairs – International Relations & Treaties
What is the new administrative capital proposed for Myanmar?
- (a) Bassein
- (b) Mandalay
- (c) Myitkyina
- (d) Pyinmana
Answer: (d) Pyinmana
Explanation
Myanmar's new administrative capital
In November 2005 the military government of Myanmar began shifting its administrative capital from Yangon (Rangoon) to a new site near Pyinmana, later named Naypyidaw.
| Option | Status |
|---|---|
| Bassein (Pathein) | Delta port city, not the capital |
| Mandalay | Second-largest city and former royal capital |
| Myitkyina | Capital of Kachin State |
| Pyinmana | New administrative capital site (Naypyidaw) |
Answer: (d) Pyinmana.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Bassein is a port town in the Irrawaddy delta, not the new capital.
- (b) Incorrect. Mandalay is a major city but was not the new administrative capital.
- (c) Incorrect. Myitkyina is the capital of Kachin State only.
- (d) CORRECT. Pyinmana was the site of Myanmar's new administrative capital, Naypyidaw.
Key point
Myanmar moved its administrative capital from Yangon to Pyinmana (Naypyidaw) in November 2005.
Remember
New administrative capital of Myanmar: Pyinmana (Naypyidaw).
Common mistakes
- Choosing Mandalay because it was a historic royal capital.
- Not knowing the 2005 shift away from Yangon.
- Confusing Pyinmana with Naypyidaw, though they refer to the same site.
Exam tip
Myanmar capital: Yangon till 2005, then Pyinmana/Naypyidaw.
Sources
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Naypyidaw
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — Myanmar