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UPSC CDS 2019 (II)

Ancient Economy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Statement I: The Greek travelers were most impressed by the fertility of India's soil and the energy and ability of her cultivators. Statement II: Ancient India knew the use of manure. Select the correct answer:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Foreign accounts provide a comparative view of Indian economic prosperity during the Mauryan and Post-Mauryan periods.

Explanation Megasthenes in 'Indica' describes India as a land of two harvests per year due to fertile soil and advanced irrigation. Vedic texts like the Atharvaveda and Arthashastra mention 'Karisha' (dry cow dung) and other organic manures (Khatam).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Both statements are historically accurate. Greeks were indeed impressed, and manure use is well-documented.
Logic 2: However, manure was only one factor. The overall fertility was a result of the alluvial nature of the Gangetic plains, the monsoon cycle, and sophisticated state-led irrigation projects.

Active Recall

Question

What did the Greeks call the two annual harvests of India?

Answer

They noted the presence of 'summer' and 'winter' crops, referring to the Rabi and Kharif cycles facilitated by fertile soil and water management.

Core Insight

Greek admiration for Indian farmers proves that by the 4th century BCE, India had achieved a level of agricultural surplus that sustained vast imperial bureaucracies.

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