Defence, Security & Strategic Affairs MCQs for Competitive Exams
India General Knowledge
📘 MODULE 13: Defence, Security & Strategic Affairs MCQs
Topic: Defence, Security & Strategic Affairs MCQs for Competitive Exams
🔹 SUB-TOPIC 1: Basics of National Defence & Security (Q1–Q10)
Q1. National security primarily refers to:
A. Economic growth
B. Protection of a nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity
C. Social development
D. Cultural preservation
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
National security focuses on safeguarding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and citizens from internal and external threats.
Q2. Which of the following is a core component of national security?
A. Agriculture
B. Defence forces
C. Tourism
D. Education
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Armed forces form the core pillar of national defence.
Q3. Defence policy of India is primarily guided by:
A. Economic policy
B. Foreign trade policy
C. Strategic and security interests
D. Cultural diplomacy
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
India’s defence policy is shaped by strategic environment and security challenges.
Q4. Internal security mainly deals with:
A. Border disputes
B. Threats within the country
C. Maritime trade
D. Space security
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Internal security covers insurgency, terrorism, and law & order issues.
Q5. External security threats originate from:
A. Domestic policies
B. International borders and foreign actors
C. State governments
D. Civil society
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
External threats arise from neighbouring countries and global actors.
Q6. Which doctrine emphasises preparedness against both internal and external threats?
A. Economic doctrine
B. Comprehensive security doctrine
C. Cultural doctrine
D. Trade doctrine
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Comprehensive security integrates military, internal, cyber, and economic security.
Q7. India follows which general defence posture?
A. Expansionist
B. Defensive and deterrent
C. Isolationist
D. Aggressive
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
India maintains a defensive posture with credible deterrence.
Q8. National security decisions in India are taken at the highest level by:
A. State governments
B. National Security Council
C. Election Commission
D. Planning Commission
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The National Security Council (NSC) advises on strategic and security matters.
Q9. Security challenges evolve mainly due to:
A. Static borders
B. Changing geopolitical environment
C. Stable alliances
D. Fixed doctrines
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Global geopolitics and technology constantly reshape security threats.
Q10. Defence and security topics are important mainly for:
A. Arts students only
B. Competitive examinations
C. Cultural studies
D. Sports exams
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They are high-weightage areas in UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and Defence exams.
🔹 SUB-TOPIC 2: Indian Armed Forces & Structure (Q11–Q25)
Q11. The Indian Armed Forces consist of:
A. Army and Navy
B. Army, Navy, and Air Force
C. Army only
D. Paramilitary forces only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
India has three services: Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Q12. The President of India is the:
A. Chief of Army Staff
B. Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces
C. Defence Minister
D. National Security Adviser
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The President is the constitutional Supreme Commander.
Q13. Which force is responsible for land-based military operations?
A. Indian Navy
B. Indian Air Force
C. Indian Army
D. Coast Guard
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Indian Army handles land warfare and border defence.
Q14. The primary role of the Indian Navy is to:
A. Protect land borders
B. Secure maritime interests
C. Control airspace
D. Maintain internal law and order
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The Navy safeguards sea lanes and maritime security.
Q15. The Indian Air Force mainly ensures:
A. Border patrol
B. Air defence and aerial warfare
C. Internal security
D. Coastal surveillance only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
IAF protects Indian airspace and provides air support.
Q16. Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) supports:
A. State governments
B. Joint planning of armed forces
C. Police forces
D. Election Commission
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
IDS promotes jointness among the three services.
Q17. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) was created to:
A. Increase defence budget
B. Enhance jointness and coordination
C. Replace service chiefs
D. Control internal security
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
CDS ensures better coordination and integrated planning.
Q18. Which force guards India’s maritime zones?
A. BSF
B. Indian Coast Guard
C. CRPF
D. CISF
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The Indian Coast Guard protects coastal and maritime interests.
Q19. Paramilitary forces mainly support:
A. External defence only
B. Internal security and border management
C. Naval operations
D. Air defence
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They assist in internal security and border guarding.
Q20. Which ministry controls defence forces?
A. Ministry of Home Affairs
B. Ministry of External Affairs
C. Ministry of Defence
D. Ministry of Finance
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Ministry of Defence administers the armed forces.
Q21. Joint military exercises help in:
A. Cultural exchange
B. Inter-service coordination and preparedness
C. Trade promotion
D. Tourism
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They improve interoperability and readiness.
Q22. The Indian Army Day is celebrated on:
A. January 15
B. August 15
C. December 4
D. October 8
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
Army Day marks Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa taking charge.
Q23. Navy Day in India is observed on:
A. December 4
B. January 15
C. October 8
D. August 15
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
It commemorates Operation Trident (1971).
Q24. Air Force Day is celebrated on:
A. September 15
B. October 8
C. December 4
D. January 15
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
It marks the raising of the Indian Air Force.
Q25. Indian Armed Forces are essential for:
A. Economic planning
B. National sovereignty and security
C. Cultural preservation
D. Educational reforms
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They ensure territorial integrity and national security.
🔹 SUB-TOPIC 3: Defence Production, DRDO & Modernisation (Q26–Q40)
Q26. DRDO stands for:
A. Defence Research & Development Organisation
B. Department of Research & Defence Operations
C. Defence Resources & Development Office
D. Directorate of Research Defence Organisation
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
DRDO leads defence R&D and indigenous technology development.
Q27. DRDO functions under:
A. Ministry of Home Affairs
B. Ministry of Defence
C. Ministry of Science & Technology
D. NITI Aayog
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
DRDO is under the Ministry of Defence.
Q28. Indigenous defence production supports:
A. Import dependence
B. Self-reliance in defence
C. Foreign control
D. Reduced security
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
It strengthens Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence.
Q29. Defence modernisation refers to:
A. Reducing forces
B. Upgrading weapons and technology
C. Increasing manpower only
D. Privatizing defence
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Modernisation focuses on advanced technology and equipment.
Q30. Which initiative promotes indigenous defence manufacturing?
A. Digital India
B. Make in India
C. Skill India
D. Startup India
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Make in India boosts domestic defence production.
Q31. Missile development in India is largely handled by:
A. ISRO
B. DRDO
C. HAL
D. BHEL
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
DRDO develops strategic and tactical missile systems.
Q32. HAL is mainly associated with:
A. Naval ships
B. Aircraft manufacturing
C. Missile defence
D. Cyber security
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) produces aircraft and helicopters.
Q33. Indigenous defence capability improves:
A. Dependence on imports
B. Strategic autonomy
C. External control
D. Trade deficit only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Self-reliance enhances strategic autonomy.
Q34. Defence exports help India by:
A. Reducing security
B. Strengthening defence diplomacy
C. Increasing imports
D. Weakening economy
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Exports enhance global defence engagement.
Q35. Modern warfare increasingly relies on:
A. Manpower only
B. Technology and intelligence
C. Conventional weapons only
D. Numbers
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Technology plays a decisive role in modern conflicts.
Q36. Which sector is crucial for defence innovation?
A. Agriculture
B. Science and technology
C. Tourism
D. Education only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Innovation is driven by advanced science and R&D.
Q37. Defence procurement policies aim to:
A. Increase imports
B. Ensure transparency and efficiency
C. Reduce competition
D. Delay acquisitions
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They promote fair, transparent procurement.
Q38. Private sector participation in defence leads to:
A. Reduced capacity
B. Increased innovation and efficiency
C. Monopoly
D. Reduced employment
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Private players boost innovation and capacity.
Q39. Defence indigenisation reduces:
A. Strategic risk
B. National security
C. Military strength
D. Preparedness
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
Less import dependence lowers strategic vulnerability.
Q40. Defence R&D supports:
A. Economic inflation
B. Technological superiority
C. Cultural exchange
D. Tourism
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Advanced R&D ensures technological edge.
🔹 SUB-TOPIC 4: Strategic Affairs, Borders & Security Challenges (Q41–Q55)
Q41. Strategic affairs deal with:
A. Cultural relations
B. Military and geopolitical strategy
C. Sports diplomacy
D. Tourism policy
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They involve security, diplomacy, and power dynamics.
Q42. Border management is important to:
A. Promote tourism
B. Prevent infiltration and threats
C. Increase trade only
D. Reduce population
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Secure borders prevent illegal activities and threats.
Q43. India faces security challenges mainly from:
A. Climate only
B. Terrorism and border disputes
C. Agriculture
D. Education
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Terrorism and disputes pose major security concerns.
Q44. Maritime security is crucial because:
A. India is landlocked
B. Sea lanes carry trade and energy
C. It affects literacy
D. It controls population
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Sea routes are vital for trade and energy security.
Q45. Cyber security threats target:
A. Agriculture
B. Digital infrastructure
C. Geography
D. Climate
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Cyber threats attack digital and critical infrastructure.
Q46. Terrorism is a threat because it:
A. Promotes development
B. Undermines national security
C. Improves economy
D. Enhances diplomacy
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
It destabilises society and governance.
Q47. Strategic partnerships help India by:
A. Isolating itself
B. Enhancing security cooperation
C. Reducing diplomacy
D. Avoiding alliances
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Partnerships strengthen defence and security ties.
Q48. Nuclear deterrence aims to:
A. Encourage war
B. Prevent large-scale conflict
C. Increase arms race
D. Promote aggression
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Deterrence discourages enemy aggression.
Q49. India follows which nuclear policy?
A. First Use
B. No First Use
C. Pre-emptive strike
D. Aggressive doctrine
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
India follows a No First Use nuclear doctrine.
Q50. Strategic autonomy means:
A. Isolation
B. Independent decision-making
C. Dependence on allies
D. Economic protectionism
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
It allows independent foreign and defence policy.
Q51. Space security involves:
A. Agriculture satellites only
B. Protection of space assets
C. Tourism
D. Education
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Space assets are vital for communication and defence.
Q52. Internal security challenges include:
A. Border disputes only
B. Insurgency and extremism
C. Foreign trade
D. Climate change only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Internal threats affect stability and governance.
Q53. Strategic affairs are important for:
A. Sports administration
B. National power projection
C. Cultural heritage
D. Language development
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They shape India’s role in global affairs.
Q54. Defence diplomacy involves:
A. Cultural exchange
B. Military cooperation with other nations
C. Trade agreements
D. Tourism promotion
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
It uses defence ties to strengthen international relations.
Q55. Security challenges are dynamic due to:
A. Fixed threats
B. Changing technology and geopolitics
C. Stable borders
D. Static policies
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Evolving technology reshapes threat perception.
🔹 SUB-TOPIC 5: Exam-Oriented Application (Q56–Q60)
Q56. Defence & Strategic Affairs MCQs are most relevant for:
A. UPSC, State PSCs, Defence exams
B. Sports competitions
C. Cultural festivals
D. Language exams
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
They are core GK topics in major competitive exams.
Q57. In exams, defence questions usually test:
A. Exact weapon names only
B. Conceptual understanding and relevance
C. Essay writing only
D. Calculations
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Exams emphasise concepts, roles, and significance.
Q58. India’s defence preparedness depends on:
A. Numbers only
B. Technology, training, and strategy
C. Population size
D. Geography only
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Modern defence relies on technology and strategic planning.
Q59. Strategic affairs help understand:
A. Only military matters
B. India’s global position and security
C. Cultural diversity
D. Educational reforms
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They explain India’s role in global geopolitics.
Q60. Defence, Security & Strategic Affairs MCQs are essential for:
A. Academic theory only
B. Competitive exam success
C. Corporate training
D. Legal studies
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
They are high-weightage and repeatedly asked topics.
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Defence and security MCQs for competitive exams
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Strategic affairs GK questions India
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Indian armed forces MCQs
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DRDO defence production MCQs
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Internal and external security MCQs
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UPSC defence and strategic affairs questions
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National security GK MCQs India
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Military and defence studies MCQs
🔹 Defence, Security & Strategic Affairs MCQs for Competitive Exams
Defence, security, and strategic affairs constitute a high-priority and high-weightage segment of Indian General Knowledge, especially in examinations like UPSC Civil Services, State PSCs, Defence Services exams, SSC, and other competitive tests. Topics such as Indian Armed Forces, internal and external security, defence production, DRDO, border management, cyber and maritime security, nuclear doctrine, and strategic autonomy are repeatedly asked.
This MODULE 13 MCQ set provides systematic, exam-focused coverage with clear concept-based explanations, enabling aspirants to understand core principles, institutional roles, and strategic relevance rather than relying on rote memorisation. Regular practice of these MCQs strengthens conceptual clarity, current affairs linkage, and analytical understanding, ensuring better performance in objective examinations.
🔹 FAQ SECTION
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Why are Defence, Security & Strategic Affairs important for competitive exams?
These topics are crucial for understanding national security, geopolitics, and defence preparedness, making them frequently asked in UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and Defence exams.
Q2. Which exams include Defence & Strategic Affairs MCQs?
UPSC Civil Services, State PSCs, NDA, CDS, AFCAT, SSC, Railways, and other competitive exams regularly include questions from this area.
Q3. What areas are most important within Defence & Security GK?
Indian Armed Forces, internal and external security threats, defence production, DRDO, border and maritime security, cyber security, and nuclear doctrine are most important.
Q4. Do exams focus on technical weapon details?
Mostly no. Exams focus on concepts, roles, objectives, doctrines, and strategic relevance, not technical specifications.
Q5. How should aspirants prepare Defence & Strategic Affairs effectively?
By understanding basic concepts, institutions, doctrines, and current developments, and practising MCQs with clear explanations regularly.
🔹 TARGETING EXAMS
🎯 Targeting Competitive & Academic Examinations
These Defence, Security & Strategic Affairs MCQs are prepared in strict alignment with the India-specific General Knowledge syllabus and are highly useful for:
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UPSC Civil Services Examination (Prelims & Mains Objective Sections)
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State Public Service Commission (PSC) Exams
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Defence Exams (NDA, CDS, AFCAT, CAPF)
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SSC CGL, CHSL, MTS & GD
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Railways (RRB NTPC, Group D)
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Police, Paramilitary & Home Guard Exams
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University, College & School-level Competitive Examinations