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Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2019

Ancient Social Welfare and Medicine

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

In travel through India, Fa-Hien has mentioned a hospital, it was located at-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The travelogues of Chinese pilgrims are vital for understanding the social welfare systems and urban prosperity of ancient Indian cities.

Explanation Fa-Hien (c. 399-414 CE) recorded that in Pataliputra, the capital of the Magadha region, wealthy and benevolent citizens had established a hospital where the poor, orphans, and diseased could stay for free and receive medical treatment.

Logical Breakup
Option D is Correct: Pataliputra was noted for its advanced infrastructure. Fa-Hien was impressed by the free treatment and care provided to patients by charitable organizations.
Logic: This account proves that state and private philanthropy supported highly organized public health institutions during the Gupta 'Golden Age'.

Active Recall

Question

What does Fa-Hien's mention of the hospital tell us about Gupta society?

Answer

It indicates a high degree of civic responsibility, advanced medical knowledge, and the presence of organized charitable institutions supported by the urban elite.

Core Insight

Fa-Hien's descriptions of Pataliputra provide a counterpoint to the later accounts of Hieun Tsang, showing the city at its peak of urban glory before its decline.

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