CAPF 2017

Gupta Geography and Economy

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following statements about the Gupta period is not correct?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Historical verification requires cross-referencing inscriptions, literary texts (Puranas), and archaeological records to confirm the geographic and social reach of an empire.

Explanation Statement D is incorrect. Saurashtra was indeed a part of the Gupta empire. Chandragupta II famously defeated the Saka ruler Rudrasimha III and annexed the Western Satrap territories, including Gujarat (Saurashtra).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Vishti (Option A): Inscriptions verify that forced labor was increasingly used as a form of tax during the Gupta era.
Logic 2: Vishnu Purana (Option B): This text confirms the early Gupta stronghold along the Ganges and at Prayaga.
Logic 3: Mehrauli Inscription (Option C): This iron pillar records 'Chandra' (Chandragupta II) defeating enemies in Bengal and the Vahlikas in the Punjab region.

Active Recall

Question

Which Gupta ruler added Saurashtra to the empire?

Answer

Chandragupta II (Vikramaditya) added Saurashtra after defeating the last of the Western Satraps.

Core Insight

The inclusion of Saurashtra was a turning point for the Guptas, giving them control over the lucrative Arabian Sea trade.