[Solved] Ancient Indian Agriculture: Greek Accounts & Techniques

Statement I: The Greek travelers were most impressed by the fertility of India's soil and the energy and ability of her cultivators.
Statement II: Ancient India knew the use of manure.
Select the correct answer:

[UPSC CDS 2019 (II)]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Foreign accounts provide a comparative view of Indian economic prosperity during the Mauryan and Post-Mauryan periods.

Authentic Source Evidence

Megasthenes in 'Indica' describes India as a land of two harvests per year due to fertile soil and advanced irrigation. Vedic texts like the Atharvaveda and Arthashastra mention 'Karisha' (dry cow dung) and other organic manures (Khatam).

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Both statements are historically accurate. Greeks were indeed impressed, and manure use is well-documented.

Logic 2: However, manure was only one factor. The overall fertility was a result of the alluvial nature of the Gangetic plains, the monsoon cycle, and sophisticated state-led irrigation projects.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What did the Greeks call the two annual harvests of India?"

They noted the presence of 'summer' and 'winter' crops, referring to the Rabi and Kharif cycles facilitated by fertile soil and water management.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Greek admiration for Indian farmers proves that by the 4th century BCE, India had achieved a level of agricultural surplus that sustained vast imperial bureaucracies."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Megasthenes 10 Sudarshana Lake 6

Statement I: The Greek travelers were most impressed by the fertility of India's soil and the energy and ability of her cultivators.Statement II: Ancient India knew the use of manure.Select the correct answer: