UPSC 2016 Medieval History Questions with Answers

Explanation

In the context of the economic history of medieval India, the term ’Araghatta’ refers to a waterwheel, an important piece of technology used for irrigation. The term ‘Araghatta’ derives from the words "ara" which means "spoke" and "ghatta" means "pot". The waterwheels were used to lift water from wells or rivers to irrigate crops. This technology played a significant role in agricultural productivity, particularly in regions with an agrarian economy by providing a reliable and efficient method of irrigation. Baburnama provides a comprehensive explanation and a picture of the Persian Wheel which was in use in the Punjab province. 2 Medieval History

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Under the rule of Krishna Deva Raya (ruler of Vijayanagar empire), the taxation system was quite well-organized and efficient. The tax rate was fixed between one-third and one-sixth depending on the quality of the land. This method ensured that the tax burden was more equitable, as fertile land produced higher yields and therefore could bear a higher tax rate.

Statement 2 is correct: Commercial taxes consisting of levies, duties and customs on manufactured articles of trade were also levied. Private owners of workshops also paid an industry tax. In addition to the land tax, there were taxes levied on shopkeepers, farm workers, farm servants, laborers, posters, shoemakers, musicians, etc. Grazing and house taxes were also imposed.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: In the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, a monotheistic movement, mystical in nature, developed within Shaivism in the Tamil region. This was known as the Sittars or Siddhas. The term siddha literally means one who has attained perfection as distinct from a bhakta who is attempting to perceive god.

Statement 2 is correct: The Lingayats of kannada region challenged the idea of caste-heirarchy and the "pollution" attributed to certain groups by Brahmanas. They also questioned the theory of rebirth. The Lingayats are devotees of Basaveshwara, a poet and social reformer who lived in the 12th century. The term "Linga" refers to universal consciousness as defined by the universal energy, not to Lingas seen in temples (Shakti). Lingayats are Shaivites and have been categorized as a Hindu subcaste known as "Veerashaiva Lingayats."

Explanation

During the Indian, banjaras were generally merchants. They referred to their caravans as tanda.

Option (d) is correct: During the reign of Alauddin Khalji, banjaras had a significant impact. For the purpose of transporting grain to the markets in the cities, Alauddin Khalji used the Banjaras. They were responsible for moving goods from one location to another. According to the Emperor Jahangir’s chronicles, the Banjaras transported grain from various regions on their bullocks and sold it in towns.