Ancient Governance and Welfare
Sohgaura Copper-plate: Earliest Food Preservation Record
The Sohgaura Copper-plate inscription is the earliest known royal order to preserve food-grains for use during times of national crisis or famine.
Primary Reference: Standard Educational Reference
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
1998
Evidence Source
Link ↗Which one of the following ancient Indian records is the earliest royal order to preserve food-grains to be utilised during the crisis in the country?
[UPSC CSE Pre 1998]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
Ancient Indian governance included systematic crisis management, particularly for drought and famine, as recorded in early epigraphy.
Authentic Source Evidence
The Sohgaura Copper-plate (found in Gorakhpur, UP) is written in Brahmi script and Prakrit language. It contains a royal order for the establishment of two granaries to combat distress and famine, likely dating to the Mauryan or late pre-Mauryan period.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"What is the historical significance of the Sohgaura Copper-plate?"
It is one of the earliest examples of a copper-plate inscription in India and provides evidence of state-led food security systems.
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"This record underscores the continuity of administrative concerns regarding agricultural stability across early Indian dynasties."
Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)