UPSC Prelims 1996 · General Studies
Question 85: International Relations and Current Affairs
Which one of the following countries has more or less evolved a two-party system?
AnswerThe answer is (b).
Bangladesh's politics since the return of parliamentary government in 1991 has centred on two parties, the BNP and the Awami League, which have taken turns in power. Sri Lanka has the UNP and the SLFP but also many smaller parties; Pakistan has several major parties; and Myanmar was ruled by a military regime. Remember: Bangladesh - BNP versus Awami League.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Sri Lanka has two main parties but also many smaller ones in its coalitions.
- (b) Right: Bangladesh has more or less a two-party system.
- (c) Pakistan has several major parties, so it is not a two-party system.
- (d) Myanmar was ruled by a military regime, without party competition.
Worth knowing: Sri Lanka's UNP and SLFP have also dominated its politics, so (a) fits as well; the key picks Bangladesh.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1996, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.