Explanation

On March 4, 2025, the United States withdrew from the board of the United Nations' Loss and Damage Fund.

The fund was created at the United Nations Climate Conference (COP27) in 2022 in Egypt. 

LDF provides financial aid to regions facing losses due to climate change, including rising sea levels, extreme weather and drop failures. 

The fund is managed by a Governing Board, with the World Bank as an interim trustee for four years. 

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Explanation

• Mark Rutte became the 14th Secretary General of NATO on 1 October 2024.
• He has also served as the prime minister of Netherlands.
• He replaced Jens Stoltenberg.

 Last verified on 22-10-2026

Explanation

• The Headquarters of SAARC is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.
• Full Form: South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
• Founded: 8 December 1985
• Founding place: Dhaka, Bangladesh

SAARC Member Countries:

1. Afghanistan
2. Bangladesh
3. Bhutan
4. India
5. Maldives
6. Nepal
7. Pakistan
8. Sri Lanka

Last updated by NA on 14-09-2026

Explanation

• Afghanistan became SAARC’s 8th member in 2007 at the 14th SAARC Summit in New Delhi, India.

Additional information:

• SAARC was established on 8 December 1985 in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
• Its founding members were Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
• SAARC’s Secretariat is located in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Last verified on 21-10-2026

Explanation

• NDCs are national climate action plans submitted by countries under the Paris Agreement.
• Countries outline their targets and measures for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions and adapting to climate change.
• Under the Paris Agreement, countries must communicate updated NDCs every five years, reflecting progression and their highest possible ambition.
• The Paris Agreement aims to keep global warming well below 2°C and pursue efforts to limit it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

Last verified on 21-10-2026