Comprehension

Read the passage given below carefully and answer the questions that follows :
We should keep in mind that the membership of the UN Security Council was expanded from 11 to 15 in 1965. But there was no change in the number of permanent numbers. Since then, the size of the Council has remained stationary. The fact remains that the overwhelming majority of the UN General Assembly members now are developing countries. Therefore, India argues that they should also have a role in shaping the decisions in the Secuirty Council which affect them. 
India supports an increase in the number of both permanent and non-permanent members. Its representative have argued that the activities of the Security Council have greatly expanded in the past few years. The success of the Security Council's actions depends upon the political support of the international community . Any plan restructuring of the Security Council should, therefore, be broad -based. For example the Security Council should have more developing countries in it.
Not surprisingly, India itself also wishes to be a permanent member in a restructured UN.

Question: 1

When was the membership of the UN Security Council expanded from 11 to 15?

Updated On: Jan 16, 2026
  • 1950
  • 1955
  • 1965
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

In 1965, the UN Security Council's membership grew from 11 to 15 members. This expansion included an increase in non-permanent members from 6 to 10, while the number of permanent members stayed the same. The rationale behind this adjustment was the increasing demand for broader representation and inclusivity within the UN, particularly acknowledging the influence and interests of developing nations. This event is crucial for comprehending the evolving structure of international governance, with India actively campaigning for an increase in both permanent and non-permanent seats to better reflect contemporary geopolitical landscapes.

Therefore, the membership expansion occurred in 1965.

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Question: 2

What is India's position on restructuring of the Security Council?

Updated On: Jan 16, 2026
  • It opposes any restructuring.
  • It supports an increase in the number of both permanent and non-permanent members.
  • It supports a decrease in the number of permanent members.
  • It supports a decrease in the number of non-permanent members.
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

India's position on UN Security Council reform centers on several core tenets. The nation advocates for expanding both permanent and non-permanent seats. This stance is informed by the fact that the Council's last expansion in 1965 only increased non-permanent membership, not permanent representation. Considering the current UN General Assembly's composition, heavily represented by developing nations, India contends that these countries require greater influence in Security Council decisions affecting them. India also stresses that the Council's expanded operational scope necessitates a holistic and inclusive restructuring, particularly by incorporating more developing countries. India's aspiration for permanent membership in a reformed Council underscores the necessity of widespread international backing to bolster the Council's efficacy.

Consequently, India's position corresponds to the statement: "It supports an increase in the number of both permanent and non-permanent members."

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Question: 3

Any plan for restructuring of the Security Council should be:

Updated On: Jan 16, 2026
  • Limited to a few countries
  • Focus on developed countries
  • Focus on permanent members
  • Broad-based
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

To effectively restructure the Security Council as per the passage, a broad-based approach is essential. This is underscored by the fact that developing countries, which form the majority of UN General Assembly members, should have increased influence in the Security Council’s decision-making. The text stresses that expanding the Council's membership, encompassing both permanent and non-permanent seats, must reflect the global community, including developing nations, to secure crucial political backing for its mandates.

Consequently, the optimal selection is: Broad-based.

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Question: 4

How many permanent members are there in the Security Council?

Updated On: Jan 16, 2026
  • 3
  • 5
  • 8
  • 10
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The United Nations Security Council, responsible for global peace and security, comprises permanent and non-permanent members. The number of permanent members has remained unchanged since the UN's establishment post-World War II.

The Security Council currently has:

  • 5 permanent members.

These are known as the "P5":

  • China
  • France
  • Russia
  • United Kingdom
  • United States

Permanent members possess special rights, including veto power over significant resolutions, a power not held by non-permanent members, who are elected for rotating terms.

This configuration ensures that post-WWII major powers, who founded the UN, retain influence in global governance. Discussions are ongoing about expanding both permanent and non-permanent membership to better represent current international dynamics.

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Question: 5

Which of the following country wishes to be a permanent member in the UN?

Updated On: Jan 16, 2026
  • India
  • China
  • US
  • France
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

The passage indicates proposals to reform and enlarge the UN Security Council to better represent the significant number of developing countries within the UN General Assembly. India, representing developing nations, seeks a greater influence on Security Council decisions impacting these countries. Consequently, India advocates for expanding both permanent and non-permanent seats in a reformed Security Council. As a prominent developing nation, India desires permanent membership on the UN Security Council.

Therefore, the country seeking permanent membership on the UN is: India

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