[Solved] Chief Livelihood of Aryans | Agriculture and Herding

In the ancient period chief-livelihood source of the Aryans was-

[U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 1993]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

The Indo-Aryans transitioned from a semi-nomadic pastoral lifestyle to a settled agricultural economy as they moved into the Gangetic plains.

Authentic Source Evidence

While the early Rigvedic tribes were primarily cattle-herders, by the later Vedic period, the 'plough' (Sira) and 'field' (Kshetra) references dominate, marking agriculture as the primary livelihood.

Analytical Breakdown

Agriculture (A): In the context of 'Ancient Period' (broadly), settled farming was the economic backbone of the Janapadas.

Hunting/Business: These were supplementary activities, not the 'chief' source of sustenance for the mass population.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"How did the shift to agriculture change Aryan social structure?"

It led to permanent settlements, the accumulation of land wealth, and the development of a more complex Varna hierarchy.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The 'cow' remained a measure of value, but land and its produce became the physical basis of political power in ancient India."

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