Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
About Balutedars, which are correct? 1. They were village servants and artisans. 2. They were employed by individual peasant families. 3. They existed in Medieval Deccan and Maharashtra.
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
The Balutedar system was a unique socio-economic institution in medieval Western India that ensured the village was a self-sufficient unit. It allowed essential services to be maintained without the need for a complex cash economy.Explanation
Statement 1 and 3 are correct: Balutedars were village artisans and servants (like carpenters, blacksmiths, and barbers) who lived and worked in Medieval Deccan and Maharashtra.
Statement 2 is incorrect: They were not private employees of a family; they served the entire village community. In return, they were paid with a 'share' of the harvest (grain) from all the farmers in the village.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: This 'Baluta' system was hereditary and traditionally involved twelve types of artisans (Bara Balutedar).
Logic 2: It provided a social safety net, ensuring the artisans received food and the farmers received maintenance for their plows and tools.