[Solved] Araghatta: The Persian Wheel in Medieval Irrigation

With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term 'Araghatta' refers to

[UPSC CSE Pre 2016]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Agricultural productivity in Medieval India was greatly enhanced by the introduction and refinement of water-lifting technologies. The 'Araghatta' was a revolutionary tool for deep-well irrigation.

Authentic Source Evidence

Araghatta is the Sanskrit term for what is commonly known as the Persian Wheel. It is a mechanical device consisting of a series of buckets on a chain, operated by animals like bullocks or camels to lift water from open wells.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The word comes from 'Ara' (spoke) and 'Ghatta' (pot), describing the wheel-and-pot mechanism.

Logic 2: This technology allowed for the cultivation of crops in areas where surface water was scarce but groundwater was accessible, significantly boosting the agrarian economy.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who popularized the use of the Persian wheel in North India?"

It became widespread during the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal period, though its earlier forms existed in ancient India.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Araghatta represents a major technological transition that enabled the 'Green Revolution' of the medieval period."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

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