Which one of the following statements about the agrarian economy durin...
The Incorrect Statement:
The incorrect statement about the agrarian economy during the post-Gupta period is option 'D': The Sudras cultivated land mainly as slaves and agricultural laborers.
Explanation:
During the post-Gupta period, the agrarian economy in India witnessed several changes. Here is a detailed explanation of each statement and why option 'D' is incorrect:
a) The actual cultivation was entrusted to peasants or sharecroppers who were attached to the land but did not possess it:
During this period, the actual cultivation of land was mainly carried out by peasants or sharecroppers. These individuals were attached to the land and had the responsibility of cultivating it. However, they did not possess the land and were often bound to the landowners through various arrangements such as the sharing of the produce or payment of rent.
b) The landed beneficiaries did not cultivate land by themselves:
The landowners or landed beneficiaries, who were usually members of the upper castes such as Brahmins and Kshatriyas, did not directly engage in agricultural activities. They relied on the labor of peasants and sharecroppers to cultivate the land.
c) The landed beneficiaries could not collect revenue by themselves:
During the post-Gupta period, the collection of revenue was often carried out by officials appointed by the ruling authorities. These officials were responsible for collecting revenue on behalf of the landed beneficiaries. The system of revenue collection was structured, and the landowners themselves were not directly involved in this process.
d) The Sudras cultivated land mainly as slaves and agricultural laborers:
This statement is incorrect. Sudras, who were considered the lowest caste in the traditional Hindu social hierarchy, did not primarily cultivate land as slaves or agricultural laborers during the post-Gupta period. While it is true that the Sudra caste often faced social and economic disadvantages, they still had the opportunity to own and cultivate land. The Sudras were not solely confined to the role of slaves or agricultural laborers, and they could engage in agricultural activities as independent cultivators.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the incorrect statement about the agrarian economy during the post-Gupta period is option 'D'. The Sudras did not solely cultivate land as slaves and agricultural laborers; they had the opportunity to own and cultivate land independently.
Which one of the following statements about the agrarian economy durin...
D
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