First Anglo-Maratha War: Treaty of Salbai, 1782

The First Anglo Maratha War (1775-1782)

Madhav Rao Narayan was an infant Peshwa under Nana Fadnavis’ reign. As a result of Ragunath Rao, the nephew of the former Peshwa Madhava Rao I, usurping power, the Company administration was given the opportunity to fish in troubled waters. Ragunath Rao received backing from the Bombay Company administration in exchange for Salsette and Bassein. The Marathas were forced to yield Thane and Salsette to the British as Mahadaji Scindia and the Bhonsle of Nagpur turned pro-British. Ragunath Rao received a pension in 1782 as a result of the Salbai Treaty. Following this, the Company and the Marathas lived in peace for almost 20 years.

The Second Anglo-Maratha War (1803-1806)

The death of Nana Fadnavis resulted in a scramble for his huge possessions. Peshwa Baji Rao II was dethroned. In the then trying circumstances, he had to accept the help of the British. Wellesley, the then Governor General, forced the Subsidiary Alliance on the Peshwa. The treaty of Bassein was signed in 1802. According to the treaty the territory to be ceaded should fetch an income of Rs. 26 Lakhs. The leading Maratha States regarded the treaty as humiliating and hence decided to defy it. So the second Anglo- Maratha war broke out. In spite of the brave resistance put up by the Marathas, the Maratha leaders were completely routed. The Subsidiary Alliance was accepted. The British got Doab, Ahmednagar, Broach and all of the hilly regions.

The Third Anglo-Maratha War (1817-1818)

Peshwa Baji Rao II became anti-British, as the prime minister of the Gaikwar (ruler) of Baroda Gangadhar Sastri was killed by Trimbakji, a favourite of Peshwa. At the instance of the Resident at Poona, Mountstuart Elphinstone, Trimabakji was imprisoned. The murderer however managed to escape from the prison with the assistance of the Peshwa. Peshwa was also charged with creating the Maratha confederacy and plotting with Scindia, Bhonsle and Holkar against the British. So, the British forced the Peshwa to sign a new treaty at Poona.

Some important treaties were signed. These were:

June 1817, Treaty of Poona, with the Peshwa.
November 1817, Treaty of Gwalior, with Sindhia.
January 1818, Treaty of Mandasor, with Holkar.
In June 1818, the Peshwa finally surrendered, and the Maratha Confederacy was dissolved. The Peshwaship was abolished.

UPSC PYQS

Ques.1: Shivaji was coronated at

(a) Raigarh (b) Aurangabad

Ques.2: The official associated with land revenue collection in the Maratha administration in medieval India was

(a) Patel (b) Kulkarni

Ques.3: Ashtapradhan was a Council of Ministers

(a) In the Gupta Administration

(b) In the Chola Administration

(d) In the Maratha Administration

Ques.1: Shivaji was coronated at

(a) Raigarh (b) Aurangabad

Ques.2: The official associated with land revenue collection in the Maratha administration in medieval India was

(a) Patel (b) Kulkarni

Ques.3: Ashtapradhan was a Council of Ministers (1995)

(a) In the Gupta Administration (b) In the Chola Administration

Ques.4: The ‘Modi script’ was employed in the documents of the (1995)

(a) Wodeyars (b) Zamorins

Ques.5: The ‘Modi script’ was employed in the documents of the (1995)

(a) Wodeyars (b) Zamorins

Ques.6: The member of Shivaji’s Astha Pradhan who looked after foreign affairs was

(a) Peshwa (b) Sachiv

Ques.7: Who among the following streamlined the Maratha administration after Sambhaji? (2000)

(a) Raja Ram (b) Balaji Viswanath

Ques.8: The earnings of the kings in the Medieval age were mostly derived from (1979)

(a) Offerings made at the temples (b) Land revenue

Ques.9: Match the following: (1984)

A. Krishnadeva Raya 1. Construction of roads and land reforms

B. Hyder Ali 2. Poems in Telugu

C. Afghans and Turks 3. Mysore wars

D. Sher Shah 4. Construction of tombs and arches

Select the correct answer from the codes below:

A B C D

(a) 2 1 3 4

(b) 2 3 4 1

(d) 3 4 2 1

Ques.10: The supremacy and sovereignty of ‘Khalifa’ of Baghdad was strictly observed by Muslim kings in India because: (1986)

(a) ‘Khalifa’ was treated as religious head of the Muslim community

(b) ‘Khalifa’ was treated as the legal head of the Muslim community

(d) He used to decide all the cases efficiently

Ques.11: Who among the following were famous jurists of medieval India? (1994)

1. Vijnanesvara 2. Hemadri

3. Rajasekhara 4. Jimutvahana

Choose the correct answer form the codes given below:

(a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 2, 3 and 4

Ques.12: The Badami rock inscription of Pulakesin 1 is dated in the Saka year 465. If the same were to be dated in VikaramSamvat, the year would be (1997)

(a) 601 (b) 300

Ques.13: Assertion (A): At first the Turkish administration in India was essentially military (1998)

Reason (R): The country was parcelled out as ‘Iqtas’ among leading military leaders.

(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not a correct explantion of A

(d) A is false, but R is true

Ques.14: Match list 1 with List 2 and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:

List-I List-II

A. 1556 1. Battle of HaldiGhati

B. 1600 2. Nadir Shah’s capture of Delhi

C. 1686 3. Death of Shivaji

D. 1739 4. Grand of Charter to East India Company

5. Accession of Akbar

Codes

A B C D

(a) 3 4 2 1

(b) 5 4 3 2

(d) 1 5 3 2

Ques.15: One consistent feature found in the history of southern India was the growth of small regional kingdoms rather than large empires because of

(a) The absence of minerals like iron

(b) Too many divisions in the social structure

(d) The scarcity of manpower

Ques.16: Match List-1 with List-2 and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:

List-I List-2

A. Iqta 1. Marathas

B. Jagir 2. Delhi Sultans

C. Amaram 3. Mughals

D. Mokasa 4. Vijayanagara

Codes:

A B C D

(a) 3 2 1 4

(b) 2 3 4 1

(d) 3 2 4 1

Ques.17: Which one of the following Muslim rulers was hailed as the ‘Jagadguru’ by his Muslim subjects because of his belief in secularism? (2000)

(a) Husain Shah (b) Zain-ul-Abidin

Ques.18: Who among the following presided over the Buddhist Council held during the reign of Kanishka at Kashmir?

(a) Parsva (b) Nagarjuna

Ques.19: Which one of the following statements is not correct? (2003)

(a) Ali Mardan Khan introduced the system of revenue farming in Bengal

(b) Maharaja Ranjit Singh set up modern foundries to manufacture cannons at Lahore

(d) Sultan Tipu of Mysore gave money for the construction of the idol of Goddess Sarda in the Shringeri temple

Ques.20: In India, among the following locations, the Dutch established their earliest factory at:

(a) Surat (b) Pulicat

Ques.21: Why did Buddhism start declining in India in the early medieval times? (2010)

1. Buddha was by that time considered, as one of the incarnations of Vishnu and thus became a part of Vaishnavism

2. The invading tribes from Central Asia till the time of last Gupta king adopted Hinduism and persecuted Buddhists

3. The kings of Gupta dynasty were strongly opposed to Buddhism

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only

Ques.22: India maintained its early cultural contacts and trade links with southeast Asia across the Bay of Bengal. For this pre-eminence of early maritime history of Bay of Bengal, which of the following could be the most convincing explanation/explanations? (2011)

(a) As compared to other countries, India had a better shipbuilding technology in ancient and medieval times

(b) The rulers of southern India always patronised traders, Brahmin priests and Buddhist monks in this context

(d) Both (a) and (b) are convincing explanations in this context

Ques.23: In medieval India, the designations ‘Mahattara’ and ‘Pattakila’ were used for

(a) Military officers (b) Village headmen

Ques.24: With reference to Indian history, which of the following is/are the essential elementary elements of the feudal system?

1. A very strong centralized political authority and a very weak provincial or local political authority.

2. Emergence of administrative structure based on control and possession of land

3. Creation of lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Ques.25: Consider the following pairs: Medieval India

State Present Region

1. Champaka Central India

2. Durgara Jammu

3. Kuluta Malabar

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only

Ques.26: Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were generally (2016)

(a) Agriculturalists (b) Warriors

Ques.27: With reference to the economic history of medieval India the term ‘Araghatta’ refers to (2016)

(a) Bonded labour

(b) Land grants made to military officers

(d) Wasteland converted to cultivated land

Ques.28: Consider the following pairs: (2019)

Famous place River

1. Pandharpur Chandrabhaga

2. Tiruchirappalli Cauvery

3. Hampi Malaprabha

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Ques.29: With reference to the history of India, consider the following pairs: (2020)

1. Aurang: In-charge of treasury of the State

2. Banian: Indian agent of the East India Company

3. Mirasidar: Designated revenue payer to the State

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only

Ques.30: Consider the following events in the history of India: (2020)

1. Rise of Pratiharas under King Bhoja

2. Establishmet of Pallava power under Mahendravarman 1

3. Establishment of Chola power by Parantaka 1

4. Pala dynasty founded by Gopala

What is the correct chronological order of the above events, starting from the earliest time?

(a) 2 – 1 – 4 – 3 (b) 3 – 1 – 4 – 2

Ques.31: Which of the following phrases defines the narure of the ‘Hundi’ generally referred to in the Sourceof the post-Harsha period? (2020)

(a) An advisory issued by the king to his subordinates

(b) A diary to be maintained for daily accounts

(d) An order form the feudal lord to his subordinates

Ques.32: With reference to the history of India, the terms ‘Kulyavapa’ and ‘dronavapa’ denote (2020)

(a) Measurement of land (b) Coins of different monetary value

Ques.33: With reference to Chausath Yogini temple situated near Morena, consider the following statements: (2021)

1. It is a circular temple built during the reign of Kachchhapaghata Dynasty

2. It is the only circular temple built in India

3. It was meant to promote the Vaishnava cult in the region

4. Its design has given rise to a popular belief that it was the inspiration behind the Indian Parliament building.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 only

Ques.34: With reference to India history, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2021)

1. The Nizamat of Arcot emerged out of Hyderabad State.

2. The Mysore Kingdom emerged out of Vijayanagara Empire

3. Rohilkhand Kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only

Ques.35: In medieval India, the term “Fanam” referred to: (2022)

(a) Clothing (b) Coins

Ques.36: With reference to Indian history, who of the following were known as “Kulah-Daran”?

(a) Arab merchants (b) Qalandars

Ques.37: Consider the following pairs:

King Dynasty

1. Nannuka – Chandela

2. Jayashakti – Paramara

3. Nagabhata 2 – Gurjara- Pratihara

4. Bhoja-Rashtrakuta

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) Only one pair (b) Only two pairs

Hint & Solution

UPSC

1. (a)

2. (a)

3. (d)

Previous Year

1. (a)

Shivaji, the founder of the Maratha Empire and a prominent figure in Indian history, was coronated as the Chhatrapati (King) at the fort of Raigarh. The coronation took place on June 6, 1674.
Raigarh, located in present-day Maharashtra, India, served as the capital of the Maratha Empire during Shivaji’s reign. It was strategically located on a hilltop, providing natural defenses and commanding views of the surrounding region.
The coronation ceremony at Raigarh was a significant event in Shivaji’s life and marked his formal ascension to the throne. It symbolized the establishment of an independent Maratha kingdom and Shivaji’s assertion of sovereignty.

2. (a)

Under Deccan sultanates, and the Maratha empire, the Patil was the village headman and the most important Vatandar of the village. His main duties were to be the collector of revenue, as well as being the head of police and justice.The Patil was responsible for the protection of the village.

The lowest administrative unit was the village.
The Patil was in charge of the welfare of the villagers and the village, he was also sometimes required to collect revenue from the farmers, he also kept a record of new settlers and new land being used for agriculture.
The Patil and Kulkarni worked together, the Kulkarni’s duty was to keep a record of revenue and settle revenue related disputes.
The Patil and Kulkarni were supervised by Deshpande, who was a senior officer and he reported to Deshmukh who was the senior-most in the administrative chain.

3. (d)

Ashtapradhan Council of Ministers in Maratha Administration: The Ashtapradhan was a council of ministers in the Maratha administration. It was established by Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire, to assist him in the governance of his kingdom. The Ashtapradhan consisted of eight ministers, each of whom was responsible for a specific area of administration. The Eight Ministers of Ashtapradhan: 1. Peshwa: The Peshwa was the Prime Minister of the Maratha Empire. He was responsible for the overall administration of the kingdom, including finance, foreign affairs, and military matters. 2. Amatya: The Amatya was the Finance Minister of the Maratha Empire. He was responsible for the collection of revenue, the management of the treasury, and the distribution of funds to various departments. 3. Sachiv: The Sachiv was the Secretary of the Maratha Empire. He was responsible for maintaining records, issuing orders, and communicating with other departments. 4. Mantri: The Mantri was the Minister of Internal Affairs. He was responsible for the management of the royal household, including the recruitment of staff, the provision of supplies, and the organization of ceremonies. 5. Senapati: The Senapati was the Chief of Army Staff. He was responsible for the recruitment, training, and deployment of soldiers, as well as the management of military campaigns. 6. Sumant: The Sumant was the Chief Diplomat of the Maratha Empire. He was responsible for negotiating treaties, managing trade relations, and representing the kingdom in international forums. 7. Nyayadhish: The Nyayadhish was the Chief Justice of the Maratha Empire. He was responsible for the administration of justice, including the appointment of judges, the interpretation of laws, and the resolution of disputes. 8. Panditrao: The Panditrao was the Chief of Religious Affairs. He was responsible for the management of temples, the appointment of priests, and the promotion of religious harmony. Conclusion: The Ashtapradhan Council of Ministers played an important role in the governance of the Maratha Empire. Each minister was responsible for a specific area of administration, which ensured that the kingdom was managed effectively and efficiently. The Ashtapradhan system of governance was later adopted by other Indian kingdoms, including the Mughals and the British.

4. (*)

5. (d)

The ‘Modi script’ was employed in the documents of the Marathas. It was mainly used in maintaining the revenue and administrative records.

6. (d)

Among the eight members of Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan, the one who looked after foreign affairs was called the “Sumant.” The Sumant was responsible for handling diplomatic relations, foreign policy matters, and interactions with other kingdoms or empires.
The Ashtapradhan was Shivaji’s council of ministers, and each member held a specific portfolio. The roles and responsibilities of the council members were divided to efficiently govern and administer the Maratha Empire.

7. (b)

Best answer is Balaji Vishwanath. As Sambhaji (1680-89) were succeeded by Rajaram, Shivaji II, Tarabai and Shahu ji. Balaji Vishwanath played a crucial role in the final victory of Shahu by winning over almost all the Maratha sardars to the side of Shahu.

8. (b)

In the Medieval age, the earnings of kings were mostly derived from (b) land revenue.
During the Medieval period, land was a crucial Sourceof wealth and power. Kings and rulers collected revenue from the land through various means such as taxes, tributes, and agricultural produce. The land revenue formed a significant portion of the income for the kings, enabling them to maintain their armies, administration, and other expenses.

9. (b)

A. Krishnadeva Raya:

Krishnadeva Raya was one of the most prominent rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire in South India.
He was a patron of Telugu literature and is well-known for his contributions to Telugu poetry and literature. His reign is often considered a golden age of Telugu literature, and he himself composed numerous poems and literary works.

B. Hyder Ali:

Hyder Ali was a ruler of the Kingdom of Mysore in South India during the 18th century.
He is particularly known for his role in the Mysore Wars, as mentioned in the matching. He fought against the British East India Company in a series of conflicts.

C. Afghans and Turks:

The term “Afghans and Turks” likely refers to various dynasties and rulers of Afghan and Turkish origin who played roles in Indian history at different points in time. They had varying contributions, including architectural ones, such as the construction of tombs and arches.

D. Sher Shah:

Sher Shah Suri was an Afghan ruler who established the Suri Empire in North India during the 16th century.
He is known for his administrative reforms, including the construction of an extensive road network (Grand Trunk Road) and land reforms aimed at improving agricultural productivity and revenue collection. His administrative innovations had a lasting impact on the region.
In the context of the given matching, option (b) correctly associates these individuals or dynasties with their accomplishments.

10. (a)

The supremacy and sovereignty of the ‘Khalifa’ of Baghdad was strictly observed by Muslim kings in India primarily because (a) ‘Khalifa’ was treated as the religious head of the Muslim community.
The ‘Khalifa’ in Baghdad held significant religious authority in the Islamic world. The ‘Khalifa’ was regarded as the successor to Prophet Muhammad and was considered the highest religious authority for Muslims.
Muslim kings in India, including those of the Delhi Sultanate, acknowledged the religious authority of the ‘Khalifa’ and observed his supremacy and sovereignty out of religious reverence. They recognized the ‘Khalifa’ as the spiritual leader and custodian of Islamic law.
While the ‘Khalifa’ held considerable religious influence, the statement (b) ‘Khalifa’ being the legal head of the Muslim community is not entirely accurate. Islamic law and legal matters were primarily administered by Muslim rulers and jurists in their respective territories.

11. (c)

1. Vijnanesvara:

Vijnanesvara, also known as Vijnaneshwara or Bhimaraja, was a renowned Indian jurist and scholar.
He is best known for his significant work called the “Mitakshara,” which is a commentary on the Yajnavalkya Smriti, an important legal text.
The “Mitakshara” provided insights into Hindu law and customs and had a lasting influence on the legal systems in medieval and later India.

2. Hemadri:

Hemadri, also known as Hemadpant, was a notable jurist and scholar in medieval India.
He is recognized for his contributions to the field of Dharma Shastra (Hindu jurisprudence) and his compilation of legal texts and commentaries.
Hemadri is often associated with the compilation of the “Chaturvarga Chintamani,” which is a legal and ethical guide.

3. Rajasekhara

who was a significant figure in Indian literature, particularly for his poetic works.

4. Jimutvahana:

Jimutavahana, also known as Jimutavahana, was a medieval Indian jurist and scholar.
He is celebrated for his contributions to legal texts and commentaries, particularly his work on Hindu law.
Jimutavahana’s “Dayabhaga” is a well-known legal treatise that focused on inheritance and property laws in India.
In the context of the question, the correct answer (c) includes the jurists Vijnanesvara, Hemadri, and Jimutvahana, who were indeed famous for their contributions to medieval Indian jurisprudence and legal scholarship.

12. (a)

The Saka era started in 78 AD, while Vikram era started from 58 BC. So if we want to convert Badami rock inscription of Pulakesin I to Vikram era, it will be 465 + 78 + 58 = 601 Vikram Samvat.

13. (a)

Iqta is that part of land granted by the sultan to military chiefs for maintenance of troopers. The land was taken back when the Iqtadars were not in a position to maintain the army.

14. (b)

The Battle of Haldighati was fought between the Mughal Empire and the forces of Mewar on June 21, 1576 at Haldighati in Rajasthan, India. It was a decisive victory for the Mughal Emperor Jalal ud-Din Muhammad Akbar’s general Raja Man Singh against the Maharana Pratap Singh of Mewar. Akbar was 14 years old when he was crowned at Kalanaur in 1556.
Emperor Nader Shah, the Shah of Persia and the founder of the Afsharid dynasty of Persia, invaded the Mughal Empire, eventually attacking Delhi in March 1739. His army had easily defeated the Mughals at the battle at Karnal and would eventually capture the Mughal capital in the aftermath of the battle.
Shivaji died around April 5, 1680, at the age of 52 due to fever and dysentery.
The Company of Merchants of London Trading into The East Indies is granted a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth I, established with 125 shareholders and £72,000 of capital. Sir Thomas Smythe is appointed as The Company’s first Governor.
Akbar succeeded Humayun on 14 February 1556, while in the midst of a war against Sikandar Shah to reclaim the Mughal throne. In Kalanaur, Punjab, the 14-year-old Akbar was enthroned by Bairam Khan on a newly constructed platform, which still stands.

15. (c)

One consistent feature found in the history of southern India was the growth of small regional kingdoms rather than large empires because of absence of vast areas of fertile land. The Chola Empire of the South emerged in the middle of the 9th century A.D., covered a large part of Indian peninsula, as well as parts of Sri Lanka and the Maldives Islands. The first important ruler to emerge from the dynasty was Rajaraja Chola I and his son and successor Rajendra Chola. Rajaraja carried forward the annexation policy of his father. He led armed expedition to distant lands of Bengal, Odisha and Madhya Pradesh.

16. (b)

Iqta was introduced by Delhi Sultans while Jagir was introduced by Mughals.
Amaram was introduced by Vijaynagar empire. The land pieces assigned to military chiefs were called as Amaram during Vijayanagar empire.
Mokasa was introduced by Maratha.
‘Iqta’ is an Arabic word, which became a tool of administration in Islamicate tradtions.

17. (c)

Ibrahim Adil Shah II of the Adil Shahi dynasty, was the king of Bijapur Sultanate.
Ibrahim Adil Shah II of the Adil Shahi dynasty was king of the Sultanate of Bijapur. Under his reign the dynasty had its greatest period as he extended its frontier as far south as Mysore. He was a skillful administrator, artist, poet and a generous patron of the arts.

18. (d)

(a) Parsva:

Parsva is traditionally considered the 23rd Tirthankara in Jainism.
He is known for his teachings on non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, and ascetic practices, which are core principles in Jain philosophy.
However, Parsva is not associated with the Buddhist Council held during Kanishka’s reign.

(b) Nagarjuna:

Nagarjuna was a prominent Buddhist scholar and philosopher who lived around the 2nd century CE.
He is known for his contributions to Mahayana Buddhism and the development of the Madhyamaka school of Buddhist philosophy.
While Nagarjuna played a significant role in the development of Buddhist thought, he is not associated with presiding over the Buddhist Council during Kanishka’s reign.

(c) Sudraka:

Sudraka is not a well-known historical figure associated with Buddhist councils or Buddhist history. He does not have a significant role in the context of the question.

(d) Vasumitra:

Vasumitra was a renowned Buddhist scholar and presided over the Fourth Buddhist Council that was held during the reign of Emperor Kanishka, one of the Kushan rulers.
The Fourth Buddhist Council was an important event in the history of Buddhism, and it played a role in the development and consolidation of Buddhist texts and doctrine.
In the context of the question, the correct answer is (d) Vasumitra, who presided over the Buddhist Council during Kanishka’s reign.

19. (a)

(a) Ali Mardan Khan introduced the system of revenue farming in Bengal.

Ali Mardan Khan is not associated with the introduction of the revenue farming system in Bengal. Revenue farming was introduced in Bengal by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and continued during subsequent Mughal rule. Ali Mardan Khan served as a governor in the Mughal Empire during the 17 th century,Murshidabad quali khan introduced revenue farming in Bengal.

The other statements are correct:

(b) Maharaja Ranjit Singh did indeed set up modern foundries to manufacture cannons at Lahore during his rule in the Sikh Empire.

(c) Sawai Jai Singh of Amber (Jaipur) had Euclid’s ‘Elements of Geometry’ translated into Sanskrit, as part of his efforts to promote scientific knowledge and learning.

(d) Sultan Tipu of Mysore did provide financial support for the construction of the idol of Goddess Sarda in the Shringeri temple.

20. (b)

The Dutch East India Company was created in 1602 as “United East India Company” and its first permanent trading post was in Indonesia. In India, they established the first factory in Masulipattanam in 1605, followed by Pulicat in 1610, Surat in 1616, Bimilipatam in 1641 and Chinsura in 1653.
The Dutch East India Company, also known as the VOC (Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie), was one of the major European trading powers in the 17th and 18th centuries. They established several factories and trading posts in various parts of India. Among the given options, the Dutch established their earliest factory at Massulipatnam (now known as Machilipatnam) in Andhra Pradesh.

Dutch Trading in India: The Dutch had a keen interest in the spice trade and establishing a presence in India. They sought to control the trade routes and gain a monopoly over the spice trade with the East Indies (modern-day Indonesia) and Southeast Asia. In the early 17th century, they began establishing factories and trading posts in various parts of India.
Dutch Factory at Massulipatnam: Massulipatnam, located on the Coromandel Coast, was one of the earliest places where the Dutch established a factory in India. They set up their factory in Massulipatnam in 1605. The city was strategically located and had a thriving textile industry, which made it an attractive location for trade.
Importance of Massulipatnam: Massulipatnam had a natural harbor, making it convenient for ships to dock and unload goods. The Dutch utilized this advantage to establish a base for their trade operations. The city was also known for its production of textiles, particularly muslin and chintz, which were highly valued commodities in European markets.
Dutch Trade Activities: The Dutch engaged in various trade activities from their factory at Massulipatnam. They imported textiles, spices, indigo, and other goods from different parts of India and traded them with Europe and other parts of Asia. They also exported European goods such as woolens, metals, and firearms to India.
Expansion of Dutch Presence: After establishing their factory at Massulipatnam, the Dutch expanded their presence in India by establishing additional factories and trading posts in other locations. Pulicat (now known as Pazhaverkadu) in Tamil Nadu, Surat in Gujarat, and Cochin (now known as Kochi) in Kerala were among the places where the Dutch established their factories and trading posts. Conclusion: The Dutch established their earliest factory in India at Massulipatnam. This strategic location, with its natural harbor and thriving textile industry, provided the Dutch with a base for their trade activities. Over time, the Dutch expanded their presence in India by establishing factories and trading posts in other parts of the country.

21. (a)

The Decline of Buddhism in India in the Early Medieval times: Buddhism declined after the end of the Guptan Empire. Let us briefly examine the reasons for the decline: Rise of Brahmins and increase in their influence in the socio-political process. Hindu traditions such as Vaishnavism, Shaivism, etc. became increasingly popular. Buddha was considered the 9th incarnation of Vishnu and thus became a part of Vaishnavism. Hence, Statement 1 is correct.
Invaders from the Middle East like the Arabs, Persians, etc. persecuted Buddhists and led to the destruction of Buddhist institutions such as Nalanda. Hence, Statement 2 is Not correct.
Religious competition earlier with Hinduism and later with Islam. After the decline of the Gupta Empire regionalisation of India occurred which led to the loss of patronage and donations and Buddhist monasteries gradually lost control of land revenue. Hence, Statement 3 is Not correct.
The Gupta dynasty did not oppose Buddhism, but Buddhism received less royal patronage under the Guptas as compared to the preceding Mauryan and Kushan Empires.

22. (d)

The correct answer is option ‘D’ – Both (a) and (b) are convincing explanations in this context. Let’s discuss each explanation in detail:

a) As compared to other countries, India had a better ship-building technology in ancient and medieval times. India’s ship-building technology was highly advanced during ancient and medieval times. The country had great expertise in constructing and navigating ships, which allowed them to sail across the Bay of Bengal. The Indians were skilled in building sturdy and efficient vessels that could withstand the challenges of long sea voyages. The use of superior ship-building technology gave India an advantage in maintaining cultural contacts and trade links with Southeast Asia.

b) The rulers of southern India always patronized traders, Brahmin priests, and Buddhist monks in this context. The rulers of southern India played a significant role in facilitating and encouraging maritime trade and cultural exchanges across the Bay of Bengal. They actively patronized traders, Brahmin priests, and Buddhist monks, providing them with support and protection. The rulers recognized the importance of these interactions for both economic and religious purposes. By promoting trade and encouraging the presence of influential religious figures, the rulers ensured the continuous flow of people and ideas between India and Southeast Asia.

c) Monsoon winds across the Bay of Bengal facilitated sea voyages. While this option is not mentioned in the correct answer, it is still important to note the role of monsoon winds in facilitating sea voyages across the Bay of Bengal. The regular and predictable monsoon winds created favourable conditions for sailing between India and Southeast Asia. The sailors could utilise these winds to navigate their ships efficiently, reducing travel time and ensuring safer voyages. The availability of monsoon winds made it easier for Indian traders, priests, and monks to travel back and forth between the two regions, enhancing cultural contacts and promoting trade. In conclusion, the pre-eminence of India’s early maritime history in the Bay of Bengal can be attributed to both its advanced ship-building technology and the patronage of rulers towards traders and religious figures. The availability of monsoon winds further facilitated sea voyages, strengthening the cultural contacts and trade links between India and Southeast Asia.

23. (b)

Village Headmen: – The designations ‘Mahattara’ and ‘Pattakila’ were used to denote the village headmen in Medieval India. – These individuals were responsible for the overall administration and governance of their villages. – They acted as intermediaries between the villagers and the higher authorities, representing the interests of the villagers and ensuring the smooth functioning of the village affairs.
Responsibilities and Duties: – The village headmen had various responsibilities and duties. Some of them include: – Collection of taxes and revenue on behalf of the ruling authorities. – Maintaining law and order in the village. – Resolving disputes and conflicts among the villagers. – Overseeing the distribution of resources and welfare activities in the village. – Implementing government policies and directives at the village level.
Authority and Power: – The village headmen held significant authority and power in their respective villages. – They were responsible for making decisions regarding the village’s affairs and had the power to enforce them. – They had the authority to impose penalties and punishments on individuals who violated village rules and regulations. – The village headmen also had the power to resolve disputes and conflicts within the village, acting as mediators between the parties involved.
Importance: – The village headmen played a crucial role in maintaining social order and harmony in the villages. – They acted as representatives of the villagers, voicing their concerns and grievances to the ruling authorities. – The village headmen also played a pivotal role in the economic development of the villages, ensuring the efficient collection and utilization of resources.
Conclusion: In Medieval India, the designations ‘Mahatma’ and ‘Pattakila’ were used to refer to village headmen who held significant authority and were responsible for the administration and governance of their respective villages. They played a crucial role in maintaining social order, resolving disputes, and representing the interests of the villagers.

24. (b)

The Feudal System in Indian History The feudal system was an important aspect of Indian history, particularly during the medieval period. Let us examine the essential elementary elements of the feudal system in India.

1. Emergence of administrative structure based on control and possession of the land The feudal system in India was characterized by the emergence of an administrative structure that was based on control and possession of the land. The land was the primary Sourceof power and wealth, and the feudal lords were the ones who controlled it. They were responsible for the collection of revenue and the administration of justice in their respective territories.

2. Creation of lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord The feudal system in India was also characterized by the creation of a lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord. The feudal lord was the vassal of his overlord, who was usually a king or a powerful ruler. The feudal lord owed allegiance and loyalty to his overlord, and in return, he received protection and support.

3. Weak provincial or local political authority Unlike the centralized political authority of the Mughal Empire, the feudal system in India was characterized by a weak provincial or local political authority. The feudal lords were the ones who exercised power and authority in their respective territories, and they were often in conflict with each other. Conclusion Based on the above discussion, it is clear that the essential elementary elements of the feudal system in India were the emergence of an administrative structure based on control and possession of the land, the creation of a lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord, and the weak provincial or local political authority. Therefore, option C (2 and 3 only) is the correct answer.

25. (b)

Champaka- Presently Chamba in Himachal Pradesh
Durgara – It is presently in Jammu.
Kuluta – Present day Kullu in Himachal Pradesh.

26. (d)

In India, Banjara people were transporters of goods from one place to another and the goods they transported included salt, grains, firewood and cattle. Thus, Banjaras were trader-nomads.

27. (c)

The Persian wheel is a mechanical water lifting device operated usually by draught animals like bullocks, buffaloes or camels. It is used to lift water from water sources typically open wells. In Sanskrit the word Araghatta has been used in the ancient texts to describe the Persian Wheel. The ‘ara-ghatta’ comes from the combination of the words ‘ara’ meaning spoke and ‘ghatta’ meaning pot.

28. (a)

1. Pandharpur – Chandrabhaga:

Pandharpur is a famous pilgrimage town located in the Solapur district of Maharashtra, India.
The Chandrabhaga River flows near Pandharpur, and it is considered sacred in the context of pilgrimages to the town, particularly for the worship of Lord Vithoba (a form of Lord Krishna).

2. Tiruchirappalli – Cauvery:

Tiruchirappalli, commonly known as Trichy, is a city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
It is situated on the banks of the Cauvery River. The Cauvery River is one of the major rivers in South India and plays a significant role in the culture and life of the region.

3. Hampi – Malaprabha:

Hampi is an ancient town located in the state of Karnataka, India.
The Tungabhadra River flows near Hampi, but it is not associated with the Malaprabha River. The Malaprabha River is a separate river in Karnataka with its own distinct course and significance.

29. (b)

Aurang was a Persian term referred to as a warehouse. It is a place where goods are collected before being sold. The term also refers to a workshop. Hence Pair 1 is not Correct.
The term banian means merchant. The banian was engaged by an individual western merchant or a firm to work for them as a broker, interpreter, and agent. Hence Pair 2 is Correct.
Under the ryotwari settlement system, the government recognized mirasidars as the sole proprietors of land. They acted as the Designated revenue payer to the State.Hence Pair 3 is Correct.

30. (c)

The Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty ruled much of Northern India from the mid-8th to the 11th century. They ruled first at Ujjain and later at Kannauj. Under Bhoja (836-885 CE) and his successor Mahendrapala I, the Pratihara Empire reached its peak of prosperity and power.
The Pallava dynasty existed from 275 CE to 897 CE in South India. Mahendravarman I (r. 600–630 CE) contributed to the greatness of the Pallava dynasty. Some of the most ornate monuments at Mamallapuram.
Parantaka Chola I (c. 907–955 CE) ruled the Chola kingdom in Tamil Nadu for forty-eight years, annexing Pandya.
Gopala (ruled c. 750s–770s CE) was the founder of the Pala Dynasty of Bengal region of the India. Therefore, the correct answer is (c).

31. (c)

Nature of Hundi in Post-Harsha period Hundi is a financial instrument that was commonly used in India during the post-Harsha period. The nature of Hundi referred to in the sources of this period can be defined as follows: Definition: A bill of exchange that is used as a payment instrument in trade transactions. Features of Hundi:
It is a negotiable instrument that can be transferred from one person to another. • It is used for both domestic and international trade transactions. • It is a credit instrument that allows the buyer to defer payment until the due date. • It is a safe and secure way of transferring funds, as it does not involve physical movement of money. • It is widely used in the informal sector, especially in rural areas where access to formal banking services is limited. • It is used by traders, moneylenders, and other business people to finance their operations.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the nature of Hundi during the post-Harsha period can be defined as a bill of exchange that is used as a payment instrument in trade transactions. It is a credit instrument that allows the buyer to defer payment until the due date, and it is widely used in the informal sector.

32. (a)

Texts and inscriptions during Gupta period mention various land measure terms The angula (probably 3/4 inch) was the smallest measure. The hasta (cubit) was the standardized distance between the tip of the elbow and the middle finger (18 inches). Larger units of measure included the dhanu/danda and nala. The land measures used in eastern India included the adhavapa (3/8–1/2 acre), dronavapa (1½–2 acres), and kulyavapa (12–16 acres). These were the areas required to sow one adhaka, drona, and kulya of grain respectively. Pataka was another land measure, and seems to have been equivalent to 60–80 acres. Other terms included pravartavapa (this was much smaller than a kulyavapa), padavarta (over 1 ft), and bhumi. The large number of land measure terms indicate that there was no single standard set of measurement and that different measures were current in different regions.

33. (c)

According to an inscription, the temple was constructed by Maharaja Devapala of the Kacchapagata dynasty, dated VS 1380 (1323 CE). Hence statement 1 is correct.
This temple is situated on top of a small hill and shows a circular plan. The temple is built on a high plinth and shows pillared cloisters that run around the wall facing an open courtyard. The small cells that form 64 subsidiary shrines have a shallow pillared mandapa in front; while a circular main shrine facing east stands in the middle of the courtyard. The cells and the main shrine are flat-topped, but it is believed that initially, each had a shikhara on top. While the 64 Yoginis originally placed in the 64 subsidiary shrines are now missing, a Shiva linga has taken their places in each cell. Chausath Yogini temple near Jabalpur is also circular in design. Hence statement 2 is not correct.
It was not meant to promote Vaishnavism as it is dedicated to Yoginis i.e. female masters of Yoga. Hence statement 3 is not correct.
There is much similarity between the design of both the buildings, so some claim that it inspired the design of the Parliament building. Hence statement 4 is correct.

34. (b)

The Nizam of Arcot emerged as an independent state after the weakening of the Mughal empire in the first half of the eighteenth century. It was a protectorate of the Hyderabad state, but it did not emerge out of it. Hence statement 1 is not correct.
Mysore kingdom emerged as a powerful state under the Wodeyar dynasty, which initially served as a vassal of the Vijaynagar empire. Hence statement 2 is correct.
Rohilkhand state arose in the modern districts of Rampur, Bareilly etc. under the declining Mughal empire in 1721. Ahmad Shah Durrani started invading India in 1748. Hence statement 3 is not correct.

35. (b)

Fanam was a currency used historically in major parts of South India, especially during the British Raj.
The term “Fanam” is believed to have originated from the Arabic word “Fana”, which means to perish or disappear.
Fanams were made of various metals, including gold, silver, and copper.
These coins were used in different regions of South India, such as the Madras Presidency and the Travancore State.
Fanams were used extensively for trading in the region of South India.

36. (d)

The Sayyids claim descent from the Prophet through his daughter Fatima. The Sayyid put on a special pointed cap (Kulah) and they were known as Kulah-Daran.

37. (b)

The Gurjara Pratihara dynasty was founded by Nagabhatta I in the region of Malwa in the 8th century AD. Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty ruled much of Northern India from the mid-8th to the 11th century.
The Pratiharas derived their name from the Sanskrit meaning doorkeeper, are seen as a tribal group or a clan of the Gurjaras. Nagabhata I, Nagabhata Il, Mihir Bhoj or Bhoja and Mahendrapala were the other important rulers of the dynasty.The expansion of the Gurjara-Pratihara kingdom involved constant conflicts with other contemporary powers such as the Palas and the Rashtrakutas known as the tripartite struggle over the city of Kannauj.
Dantidurga was the founder of the dynasty called, Rashtrakuta dynasty (8th century AD). The capital of the Rastrakutas was Manyakheta or Malkhed near Sholapur. Dhruva-I, Krishna-I and Amoghavarsha were the other important rulers of this dynasty.
The Chandela or Chandel was Indian Rajput clan of Central India. They were popularly termed as Chandelas or Jejakabhukti dynasty in Indian history. Nannuk, a ruler of small kingdom was the founder of Chandela Dynasty. Khajuraho was a strong hold of Nannuk who was considered as the chief of his clan. Vakapati succeeded his father in the first quarter of tenth century. Vakapati had to often assist Pratiharas in the battle field, as he was a liegeman of them. Some inscriptions prove that his territory extended till Vindhya hills. Jaishakti, the elder son, succeeded the throne and was successful in extending his empire.
Jaishakti, the elder brother who ruled first, was also called Jai Jak and from this name the region ruled by the Chandelas acquired the name of Jaijikbhukti. He was succeeded on the throne by his younger brother, Vijayshakti ,

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UPSC

TGPSC

APPSC

UPSC

APPSC G1 and G2

TGPSC G1 and G2

INTERMEDIATE WITH ONE NATION, ONE CURRICULUM

DEGREE WITH ONE NATION, ONE CURRICULUM

UPSC

TGPSC

APPSC

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PYQ'S

OPTIONAL

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