New York Times, NYT, Thailand - Current Affairs Questions and Answers

1)   Which Thai festival of lights was celebrated in Nov 2016?

a. Loi Mathong
b. Loi Tathong
c. Loi Jathong
d. None of the above
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: None of the above

Explanation:
Thailand celebrated the festival of lights called Loi Krathong which is celebrated in honour of Lord Buddha

  • The main event includes releasing sky lanterns and aerial krathongs, meaning decorated baskets
  • Restrictions on festivities were placed in light of the death of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej
  • Loi Krathong takes place on the evening of the full moon of the 12th month in the traditional Thai lunar calendar; therefore, the exact date of the festival changes annually
  • In the Western calendar it usually falls in the month of November.
  • In 2015 it was celebrated on Nov 25
  • Thailand is a SE Asian country known for its monuments and beaches
  • The capital is Bangkok and the currency is Thai baht
  • Prime minister of Thailand is Prayut Chan-o-cha, while official language is Thai


2)   The Thai military junta backed legislative council has recently rejected a new constitution. What is the name of the council?

a. Democratic Reform Council
b. National Reform Council
c. Nationalist Reform Council
d. Legislative Reform Council
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: National Reform Council

Explanation:
Thai junta formed the National Reform Council for assessing the suitability of the draft new constitution. The National Reform Council has rejected the new constitution with 105 in favour, 135 against and 7 abstentions. This is a major obstacle for the establishment of democracy in Thailand.


3)   In which country, two powerful bomb blasts occurred outside a hugely popular Lord Brahma temple on 17th Aug’15?

a. Bangladesh
b. Thailand
c. Indonesia
d. Singapore
Answer  Explanation 

ANSWER: Thailand

Explanation:
The temple is located on a main road through Bangkok's commercial hub and is surrounded by three major shopping malls. It is among Bangkok's most popular tourist attractions.