Uttarakhand P.C.S. (Pre) 2012

Science and Technology in Medieval India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The earliest reference of 'Magnetic Compass' is found in:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The introduction of nautical technologies like the magnetic compass facilitated maritime trade and long-distance travel, connecting India more deeply with the global economy.

Explanation The earliest reference to the magnetic compass is found in Jawami ul-Hikayat, authored by Sadiduddin Muhammad Aufi during the reign of Sultan Iltutmish (13th century).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Aufi was a Persian-origin chronicler in the court of Delhi.
Logic 2: The mention of the compass indicates that navigational technology was known in the Sultanate's intellectual circles long before the arrival of the Portuguese or Dutch.

Active Recall

Question

How did the compass reach India according to historical records?

Answer

It likely reached India through Persian and Arab maritime networks that linked the Mediterranean and Indian Oceans.

Core Insight

The Jawamiul Hikayat serves as a vital bridge in understanding how technological knowledge diffused across the Islamic world into the Indian subcontinent.