Short Notes – Section A: Question 5 (i–iv) i) First Farmers of Bihar and the Doab The emergence of agriculture in the regions of Bihar and the Ganga-Yamuna Doab marks a significant chapter in India’s early economic history. Archaeological evidence from sites such as Chirand (in Bihar) and Koldihwa and Mahagara (in the Doab) reveals […]
Short Notes – MHI-105 Question 5 (i–iv) Read More »
Introduction The Silk Route, spanning from East Asia to the Mediterranean, played a crucial role in facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic relations from around 600 BCE to 300 CE. India occupied a central position on this network, serving as a key hub in the overland and maritime segments of the route. The Silk Route
Enumerate the importance of the silk route during c.600 BCE to 300 CE. Read More »
Introduction Coins are a vital source of information for reconstructing the economic history of ancient Indian empires. The Satavahana (1st century BCE – 3rd century CE) and Gupta (4th–6th century CE) empires, in particular, have left behind a rich numismatic legacy that offers insights into their trade, monetization, metallurgy, state control, and cultural affiliations. Through
Introduction Geographical regions have played a critical role in shaping the agricultural map of India since ancient times. India’s vast and varied topography, diverse climatic zones, soil types, and water availability have led to the development of region-specific agricultural systems. From the fertile Indo-Gangetic plains to the arid Deccan plateau, agriculture in India evolved in
To what extent geographical regions determined the agricultural map of India. Read More »
Introduction The economic history of Ancient India has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades. Earlier narratives were often shaped by colonial interpretations, orientalist biases, and a limited reliance on textual sources. However, recent trends show a multi-disciplinary approach that combines archaeology, environmental studies, anthropology, numismatics, and textual criticism. This has allowed historians to reconstruct
Account for the recent trends in the economic history writings of Ancient India. Read More »
Introduction Customary rights of forest-dwellers refer to the traditional rights and practices of indigenous and tribal communities over forest land and resources. These rights include grazing, collecting firewood, hunting, and gathering minor forest produce. Under British colonial rule, these customary rights came under serious threat due to the imposition of forest laws and commercialization of
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Introduction The concept of the “drain of wealth” from India to Britain during colonial rule has been a critical subject in the study of India’s economic history. Originally advanced by thinkers like Dadabhai Naoroji, R.C. Dutt, and later supported by nationalist economists, the theory highlighted how colonial policies led to the systematic transfer of Indian
Critically examine recent arguments pertaining to drain of wealth. Read More »
Introduction The eighteenth century in Indian history is often debated among historians as a time of widespread decline or a period of transformation. While traditional interpretations argue that the century was marked by decay and disruption across political, economic, and social spheres, recent studies challenge this narrative. In this post, we critically examine the idea
‘The eighteenth century was a century of universal decline.’ Comment. Read More »
The process of state formation among the Rajputs is a significant chapter in the medieval history of India. It spanned from the 7th century CE onwards and represents a complex interplay of political fragmentation, clan consolidation, regional assertion, and socio-religious legitimation. The Rajput polities emerged primarily in north-western India, including Rajasthan, parts of Gujarat, central
Discuss the process of state formation of the Rajputs Read More »
The Vijayanagara kingdom, founded in 1336 CE by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I of the Sangama dynasty, stands as one of the most significant and enduring state formations in South Indian history. Its emergence marked a powerful response to the fragmentation and foreign invasions that followed the decline of the Hoysalas and Cholas. The
Discuss the nature of state formation of the Vijaynagara kingdom Read More »
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