[Solved] Ancient Indian Social Groups: Kula, Vansha, Gotra, Kosa

In the context of ancient Indian society which one of the following terms does not belong to the category of the other three?

[UPSC CSE Prelims 1996, Paper I]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Ancient Indian terminology distinguishes between 'kinship/social structures' and 'state/administrative components'.

Authentic Source Evidence

Kula (family), Vansha (lineage), and Gotra (clan) are social divisions. Kosa (treasury) is one of the seven elements (Saptanga) of the State mentioned in the Arthashastra.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Kula, Vansha, and Gotra are based on blood relations and lineage.

Logic 2: Kosa refers to the wealth or treasury of a kingdom, a political-economic term.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What are the seven limbs of the state according to Kautilya?"

Swami (King), Amatya (Minister), Janapada (Territory), Durga (Fort), Kosa (Treasury), Danda (Army), and Mitra (Ally).

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Categorization of terms is a standard UPSC method to test the conceptual depth of a student's understanding of ancient systems."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Saptanga Theory 4Arthashastra 13

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