Ancient India — Prelims Questions

Consider the following statements about the Indus Valley Civilization: 1. The script has been completely deciphered revealing details about their political system 2. Evidence suggests they had trade relations with Mesopotamia 3. The Great Bath at Mohenjo-daro indicates ritualistic practices 4. Harappan cities show evidence of a rigid caste system Which of the statements given above are correct?

Which of the following correctly describes the differences between Early and Later Vedic periods? 1. Early Vedic society was more egalitarian while Later Vedic society became hierarchical 2. Iron technology was extensively used in Early Vedic period 3. Later Vedic period saw eastward expansion into Gangetic plains 4. Rigveda was composed during Later Vedic period

Ashoka's Dhamma policy included which of the following principles? 1. Religious tolerance and respect for all faiths 2. Welfare of subjects as royal responsibility 3. Promotion of Buddhism as state religion 4. Non-violence towards animals and humans

The Gupta period is called the 'Golden Age' of ancient India because of: 1. Military conquests extending the empire to Southeast Asia 2. Scientific achievements including the concept of zero 3. Literary works of Kalidasa and other Sanskrit poets 4. Religious persecution of Buddhism and Jainism

Which of the following archaeological sites provide evidence of cultural synthesis during the post-Mauryan period? 1. Gandhara region showing Greek-Indian artistic fusion 2. Mathura school depicting indigenous Indian art forms 3. Amaravati sculptures showing Roman influence 4. Sanchi stupa representing pure Buddhist architecture