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Ancient Revenue Administration

Bidakabhagam: The Irrigation Tax in Ancient India

In ancient India, the irrigation tax was known as Bidakabhagam. It was a levy collected by monarchs from the produce generated on land utilizing state-funded irrigation facilities.

Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference

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In ancient India, the irrigation tax was called-

[U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The fiscal structure of ancient Indian kingdoms relied on specific taxes for infrastructure and resource usage, with distinct terms for land, water, and commodity taxes.

Authentic Source Evidence


Bidakabhagam was the term specifically used for the irrigation tax. It represented the state's share of the agricultural produce grown on land irrigated by state-provided canals or wells.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Hiranya (Option B) referred to a tax paid in gold or cash rather than kind.

  • Logic 2: Udranga (Option C) was generally a tax related to water usage or boats in some contexts, but more specifically a land-based tax in others.

  • Logic 3: Uparnika (Option D) was an additional tax on pasture land or forest produce.

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "How was Bidakabhagam typically collected?"

    It was typically collected as a specific percentage of the crop yield harvested from irrigated fields.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The existence of a specific irrigation tax indicates that ancient Indian states actively managed water infrastructure and expected a return on that investment."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

    Arthashastra 13Bhaga 4Vishti 3
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