60th to 62nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 2016

Ancient Revenue and Land Management

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which type of land was called 'Aprahat'?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Ancient Indian administrative texts developed complex land classification systems to manage taxation, grants, and agricultural development.

Explanation According to the *Amarakosha
by Amarsimha, Aprahat referred to uncultivated forest or woodland, typically characterized by dense shrubs and trees.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: It was one of 12 distinct land types classified by fertility and usage.
Logic 2: Kshetra was used for cultivable land, and Khila referred to wasteland.
Logic 3: Gapata Sarah was specifically for pasture land, while Vasti denoted habitable land.

Active Recall

Question

Who authored the Amarakosha?

Answer

The Amarakosha was authored by Amarsimha, one of the 'Nine Gems' of Chandragupta II's court.

Core Insight

The naming of 12 distinct land types in the Amarakosha reveals a highly sophisticated understanding of soil and environmental management during the Gupta era.