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Indian Chronology

Chronological Indian Eras: Vikrama, Saka, Gupta, Kali

The Vikrama era began in 58 BCE, the Saka era in 78 CE, the Gupta era in 320 CE, and the Kali era is reckoned from 3102 BCE.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History

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Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer:
List-I (Eras)List-II (Reckoned from)
A. Vikrama era1. 3102 BCE
B. Saka era2. 320 CE
C. Gupta era3. 78 CE
D. Kali era4. 58 BCE

[UPSC CSE Pre 1995]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Historical timelines in India are measured using various eras founded by different rulers or based on cosmological cycles.

Authentic Source Evidence


  • Vikrama era: Founded in 58 BCE to commemorate King Vikramaditya's victory over the Sakas.

  • Saka era: Founded in 78 CE, likely by Kanishka; it is the basis of the Indian national calendar.

  • Gupta era: Established in 320 CE by Chandragupta I upon assuming the title Maharajadhiraja.

  • Kali era: A cosmological era believed to have started in 3102 BCE.

    • Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: A matches with 4 (58 BCE).

  • Logic 2: B matches with 3 (78 CE).

  • Logic 3: C matches with 2 (320 CE).

  • Logic 4: D matches with 1 (3102 BCE).

    • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "Which era is used as the Indian National Calendar?"

    The Saka era, starting from 78 CE, is the basis for the official Indian national calendar.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The coexistence of multiple eras highlights the political and cultural diversity of ancient India, where different regions and dynasties tracked time according to their own milestones."

    Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

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