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Difficulty: MediumAncient Indian Civilizations and Early Empires

With reference to the administrative structure of the Gupta Empire in ancient India, consider the following statements:

1. The empire was divided into administrative provinces termed *Bhuktis*, which were placed under the charge of officers called *Uparikas*.
2. Provinces were subdivided into districts called *Vishayas*, governed by *Vishayapatis* who were aided by an advisory council including representatives like the *Nagara-Sresthi* (chief merchant) and *Sarthavaha* (caravan leader).
3. The lowest administrative unit at the village level was managed by the *Gramika* with the assistance of village elders.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

  1. A
    1 and 2 only
  2. B
    2 and 3 only
  3. 1, 2 and 3Answer
  4. D
    1 and 3 only

Answer

1, 2 and 3
All three statements are historically accurate regarding the Gupta administrative framework. The empire was divided into Bhuktis administered by Uparikas. Bhuktis were further split into Vishayas under Vishayapatis, who were assisted by local non-official advisory bodies comprising trade and guild representatives such as the Nagara-Sresthi and Sarthavaha. Village affairs were overseen by the Gramika and local village elders.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Examine Statement 1 regarding provincial administration during the Gupta period.
The Gupta Empire was divided into provinces known as Bhuktis (or Deshas), governed by royal officials titled Uparikas (or Uparika-maharajas). Thus, Statement 1 is correct.
Top-level provincial division allowed decentralized governance across the imperial territories.
2
Analyze Statement 2 concerning district administration and municipal participation.
Bhuktis were subdivided into districts called Vishayas under Vishayapatis. In district headquarters, the Vishayapati worked alongside an advisory council consisting of the Nagara-Sresthi (chief guild president/banker), Sarthavaha (chief merchant/caravan leader), Prathama-Kulika (chief artisan), and Prathama-Kayastha (chief scribe). Thus, Statement 2 is correct.
Gupta district administration integrated local merchant, artisan, and guild representatives into local governance.
3
Verify Statement 3 about village-level governance.
The village was the smallest administrative unit, managed by the Gramika or Gramadhyaksha along with the village council or elders (Gramaviddhas). Thus, Statement 3 is correct.
Grassroots administration relied on local village elders and appointed headmen.

Key Concept

Gupta Imperial and Local Administration
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Ancient Indian Civilizations and Early Empires

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