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U.P.P.C.S. (Spl) (Mains) 2008

Ancient Economic History

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

In ancient Indian terminology, what does 'Sarthwah' refer to?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Trade in ancient India was organized through guilds (Srenis), and long-distance travel was conducted in 'Sarthas' or caravans for safety.

Explanation Literary sources like the 'Jatakas' and 'Panchatantra' describe the Sarthvaha as the leader of the caravan who guided merchants through dangerous territories.

Logical Breakup
Convoy of Merchants (B): The word 'Sartha' means a caravan, and 'Sarthvaha' is its leader.
Function: They provided security and navigational expertise across the 'Uttarpatha' and 'Dakshinapatha' trade routes.

Active Recall

Question

What was the difference between a Sreni and a Sartha?

Answer

A Sreni was a fixed professional guild of artisans or merchants, while a Sartha was a mobile group of traders traveling together.

Core Insight

The Sarthvaha was a figure of immense economic and social power, acting as a bridge between distant markets in a time of high travel risks.

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