U.P.P.C.S. Pre 1992

International Trade in Medieval South India

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

In whose tenure, 72 traders were sent to China?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The Cholas were global traders. Maintaining strong diplomatic and commercial ties with the Song Dynasty of China was a priority for Chola kings to ensure prosperity.

Explanation Kulottunga I (r. 1070–1122 CE) is famously recorded in both Indian and Chinese chronicles as having sent a significant trade mission consisting of 72 merchants to the Chinese court in 1077 CE.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Option A is correct. This mission brought tributes and trade goods, receiving favorable trade conditions in return.
Logic 2: While Rajaraja and Rajendra initiated ties, the specific mission of 72 traders is the defining event of Kulottunga’s foreign policy.

Active Recall

Question

Why did Chola kings send 'embassies' to China?

Answer

These embassies were essentially trade missions designed to secure merchant safety and favorable tax rates for Indian goods in Chinese ports.

Core Insight

The Chola-China trade link was one of the most profitable maritime connections in the medieval world.