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Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - UPSC MCQ


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15 Questions MCQ Test History for UPSC CSE - Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire

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Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 1

Consider the following pairs:

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 1
  • The Ashoka Pillars are renowned for their intricate carvings and polished finish, marking a significant advance in the use of stone sculpture.
  • The Arthasastra, attributed to Kautilya (also known as Chanakya), is a seminal text that covers a wide range of topics including economics, politics, military strategy, and social affairs of the Mauryan Empire.
  • The Barabar Caves represent some of the earliest instances of rock-cut architecture in India, directly linked to the Mauryan period.
Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 2

Consider the following statements:

  1. The Mauryan Empire introduced widespread stone masonry and remarkable art and architecture, including the Ashoka Pillar.
  2. Kautilya's Arthasastra suggests the use of slaves in large-scale agricultural operations began during the Maurya era.
  3. The Maurya Empire's downfall was accelerated by the Brahmanical reaction to Asoka's policies favoring Buddhism.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 2
  • The Maurya Empire was known for its significant contributions to art and architecture, introducing stone masonry and structures like the Ashoka Pillar.
  • The Arthasastra does indicate the start of large-scale agricultural use of slaves during this period.
  • Asoka's policies, which were seen as promoting Buddhism at the expense of Brahmanical interests, contributed to the brahmanical reaction, one of the factors leading to the empire's decline.
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Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 3

Consider the following statements:

  1. The Mauryan administrative system was characterized by a vast bureaucracy with significant disparities in payment among officers.
  2. The appointment of 27 superintendents to regulate economic activities marks the beginning of state control over the economy in ancient India.
  3. Spies played a crucial role in the Mauryan era, especially in financial matters and intelligence gathering.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 3
  • The Mauryan Empire had an extensive bureaucratic system, with a wide range of payments for officers at different levels, indicating a highly structured administrative machinery.
  • The establishment of superintendents to oversee various economic sectors was a novel approach to managing the economy.
  • The use of spies for surveillance and financial intelligence underlines the sophisticated governance strategies employed by the Mauryan rulers.
Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 4

Consider the following pairs:

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 4
  • Punch-marked coins were indeed utilized during the Mauryan era, marking the first widespread use of standardized currency across the empire.
  • Superintendents were appointed for a variety of economic activities, not just for the regulation of urban centers, but for agriculture, trade, mining, and more, reflecting a broad scope of economic regulation.
  • The employment of slaves in agriculture is specifically noted in the Arthasastra as a feature of the Mauryan period, not the Gupta period, indicating its introduction much earlier than suggested.
Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 5

Consider the following statements:

  1. The Mauryan Empire's extensive road network facilitated the movement of armies and the promotion of trade and communication.
  2. The spread of new material knowledge and the use of iron tools beyond the Gangetic heartland coincided with the rise of rival kingdoms, contributing to the Maurya Empire's decline.
  3. Asoka implemented a policy of acculturation, aiming to integrate tribal peoples into settled, taxpaying societies.

How many of the statements given above are correct?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 5
  • The strategic establishment of roads by the Mauryan Empire played a crucial role in the empire's military successes and economic prosperity.
  • The dissemination of material culture and technological advancements like iron tools to other regions diminished the Gangetic basin's exclusive advantages, facilitating the emergence of new kingdoms.
  • Asoka's efforts to acculturate tribal communities were part of his broader vision to unify his empire and promote social cohesion.
Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 6

Consider the following pairs:

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 6
  • The term "tirthas" does not specifically refer to high-ranking bureaucrats in the Mauryan administration; thus, this pairing is incorrect.
  • Adhyakshas were indeed superintendents responsible for various economic sectors, playing a crucial role in the administration of the empire's economy.so correct 
  • Spies were utilized extensively throughout the Mauryan Empire for a variety of purposes, including intelligence gathering within the empire and monitoring potential threats, not limited to military functions.so incorrect
Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 7

Consider the following statements:

  • Statement I: The Mauryan Empire's decline was partially due to the financial crisis stemming from excessive military expenditures and Asoka's generous donations to Buddhist monastics.
  • Statement II: Asoka's policy of dhamma and his patronage towards Buddhism did not significantly impact the economic stability of the Mauryan Empire.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 7

The financial strain on the Mauryan Empire was indeed exacerbated by Asoka's extensive patronage of Buddhism, including large grants to monastics and the construction of stupas and monasteries, which drained the royal treasury.
Asoka's policy of dhamma, while aimed at moral and social welfare, indirectly affected the empire's economic resources, contradicting the assertion that it did not impact economic stability. Therefore, Statement II is incorrect.

Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 8

Consider the following statements:

  • Statement I: The Maurya Empire's administrative system included a hierarchical bureaucracy with the highest-ranking officials receiving payments as much as 48 thousand panas.
  • Statement II: The administrative efficiency of the Maurya Empire was compromised due to the disparities in payment among officials, leading to widespread corruption and inefficiency.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 8
  • The Mauryan Empire did have a highly structured bureaucracy with significant payment disparities among various ranks. However, the texts do not directly attribute the fall of the empire to corruption or inefficiency caused by these disparities.
  • While Statement II proposes a potential consequence of payment disparities, there's no explicit historical evidence linking this directly to administrative inefficiency or as a primary cause of the empire's decline. Hence, Statement II does not serve as a direct explanation for Statement I.
Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 9

Consider the following statements:

  • Statement I: The Mauryan Empire's economy was significantly advanced by the appointment of 27 superintendents to regulate various sectors, including agriculture, trade, and mining.
  • Statement II: The economic regulations under the Maurya administration hindered the growth of private enterprise and led to the empire's economic stagnation.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 9
  • The establishment of superintendents to oversee critical economic sectors was indeed a forward-thinking approach by the Mauryan government to regulate and stimulate economic activities across the empire.
  • There is no substantial evidence suggesting that these regulations stifled private enterprise or directly led to economic stagnation. Instead, such measures likely contributed to the overall economic management and stability of the empire. The decline of the Mauryan Empire is attributed to a complex interplay of factors, where economic policy as described may not have been a direct cause.
Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 10

What pivotal role did espionage play during the Mauryan Empire?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 10

Espionage during the Mauryan Empire was crucial for monitoring the activities of officers and foreign enemies, ensuring the security and stability of the empire. Spies were instrumental in gathering intelligence, maintaining control, and safeguarding the interests of the state.

Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 11

Consider the following statements regarding the Maurya Empire:

1. The Mauryan state maintained an elaborate system of espionage to collect intelligence about foreign enemies and monitor the activities of officers.

2. The employment of slaves in agricultural operations was a common practice in India from Vedic times.

3. The term "tithas" refers to religious practices prevalent during the Maurya period.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 11

Statement 1: Correct. The Mauryan state indeed maintained an elaborate system of espionage to collect intelligence about foreign enemies and monitor the activities of officers. This was a significant aspect of their administrative machinery.

Statement 2: Incorrect. While domestic slaves were present in India from Vedic times, the large-scale employment of slaves specifically in agricultural operations became notable during the Maurya period as suggested by the Arthasastra of Kautilya.

Statement 3: Incorrect. The term "tithas" does not refer to religious practices but likely refers to important functionaries within the administrative structure of the Mauryan period.

Thus, only statement 1 is correct.

Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 12

During the Maurya period in ancient India, which aspect facilitated transportation and promoted trade and communication?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 12

Pataliputra's strategic position played a crucial role during the Maurya period by facilitating transportation through the existence of a royal road to various regions. This strategic advantage not only enhanced trade and communication but also allowed for efficient movement of goods and people across different parts of India.

Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 13

Consider the following statements regarding the Mauryan Empire:

1. The Maurya rulers did not have to manage a large population, as the army size did not exceed 650,000 men.

2. The Mauryas introduced widespread use of stone masonry and built impressive structures like the Maurya palace at Pataliputra.

3. The Maurya period saw the use of iron tools like socketed axes, sickles, and ploughshares spreading beyond the Gangetic basin.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 13

1. Statement 1: Correct. The Maurya rulers did not have to manage a large population, and the army size did not exceed 650,000 men, indicating a relatively smaller population under their control.

2. Statement 2: Correct. The Mauryas made significant contributions to art and architecture, including the introduction of widespread stone masonry and the construction of impressive structures like the Maurya palace at Pataliputra.

3. Statement 3: Correct. The Maurya period saw the use of iron tools such as socketed axes, sickles, and possibly ploughshares, with these technologies spreading beyond the Gangetic basin to other parts of the empire.

All the statements are correct, hence the correct answer is Option D

Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 14

How did the spread of material culture influence regions like Andhra and Karnataka according to the provided content?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 14

The spread of material culture to regions like Andhra and Karnataka occurred through Maurya contacts, which led to advancements in agricultural practices. This exchange of knowledge and technology contributed to the development and improvement of cultivation methods in these areas, showcasing the significance of cultural diffusion and technological transfers during that period.

Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 15

Consider the following statements:

1. Elements of middle Gangetic material culture were transferred with modifications to northern Bengal, Kalinga, Andhra, and Karnataka.

2. The spread of steel technology may have occurred through Maurya contacts, leading to the use of better cultivation methods in Kalinga.

3. The Satavahana empire in the Deccan projected some administrative units of the Mauryas, and Buddhism flourished similar to the Mauryan era.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Detailed Solution for Old NCERT Test (RS Sharma): Significance of the Mauryan Empire - Question 15

All three statements provided are accurate based on the given text.

1. Elements of middle Gangetic material culture were transferred with modifications to northern Bengal, Kalinga, Andhra, and Karnataka: This statement is correct as it directly aligns with the content stating that middle Gangetic material culture was indeed transferred to these regions with modifications.

2. The spread of steel technology may have occurred through Maurya contacts, leading to the use of better cultivation methods in Kalinga: This statement is also correct. The text mentions the spread of steel technology through Maurya contacts, which improved cultivation methods in Kalinga.

3. The Satavahana empire in the Deccan projected some administrative units of the Mauryas, and Buddhism flourished similar to the Mauryan era: This statement is correct as well. According to the content, the Satavahana empire did project some administrative units of the Mauryas, and Buddhism flourished in a manner similar to the Mauryan period.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option D.

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