At which among the following places, Chandragupta Maurya spent his last days?
Correct Answer:
(C)
Shravana Belgola
Chandragupta Maurya spent his last years at Shravana Belgola in present-day Karnataka after renouncing his throne and adopting Jainism under the guidance of the Jain monk Bhadrabahu. According to Jain tradition, he undertook sallekhana (ritual fast unto death) at this site, which became a significant Jain pilgrimage center. This act reflects his spiritual transition and deep association with the Jain faith in his final years.
Ques:
2
Which of the following supposed causes of decline and disintegration of the Mauryan Empire is the least likely?
Correct Answer:
(C)
Brahmanical revolt against the pro-Buddhist policy of Ashoka
The absence of national consciousness and representative institutions is the least likely cause for the Mauryan Empire’s decline. Such concepts were not part of the political structure of ancient Indian empires. More concrete causes include weak successors after Ashoka, the administrative burden of a vast empire, economic strain, and regional revolts, including possible discontent from orthodox Brahmanical groups.
Ques:
3
Consider the following with reference to the disintegration and decline of the Mauryan Empire:
1. Brahmanical revolt
2. King Ashoka’s pacifist policies
3. Invasions from outside
4. Weakness of Ashoka’s successors
Which of the above reasons led to the disintegration and decline of the Mauryan Empire?
Correct Answer:
(A)
1, 2 and 4
The disintegration of the Mauryan Empire was due to multiple factors: the Brahmanical revolt against Ashoka’s pro-Buddhist policies, his pacifist approach that weakened military expansion, and the weakness of his successors who failed to maintain central control. Invasions occurred later and were not a direct cause of the immediate decline.
Ques:
4
Which of the following was not one of the reasons for gradual weakening of the Mauryan finances?
Correct Answer:
(C)
Unfavourable balance of trade with foreign countries
There is no strong historical evidence to suggest that the Mauryan Empire suffered from an unfavorable balance of trade. In fact, it had thriving trade routes both inland and with foreign regions. Financial weakening was more likely due to internal factors such as a large standing army, an extensive bureaucracy, and Ashoka’s expansive public welfare initiatives, all of which drained the treasury.
Ques:
5
Who was the last Mauryan ruler?
Correct Answer:
(A)
Brihadratha
Brihadratha was indeed the last ruler of the Mauryan Empire. He ruled from 187 to 180 BCE and was assassinated by his general, Pushyamitra Sunga, who then established the Sunga Empire.
Ques:
6
The art style which combines Indian and Greek features is called-
Correct Answer:
(C)
Gandhara
Gandhara is noted for the distinctive Gandhara style of Buddhist art, which was developed from the merger of Greek, Syrian, Persian and Indian artistic influences. It flourished during the Saka and Kushan era. It is also known as Greco-Buddhist, Indo-Greek or Greco-Roman, as the subject of the art was only Buddha.
Ques:
7
Sixteen coins of King Menander have been found from which of the following sites?
Correct Answer:
(A)
Bairat
Sixteen coins of King Menander have been found from Bairat.
Ques:
8
Which field was mostly contributed by Eastern Roman ruler Justinian?
Correct Answer:
(A)
Law
Justinian is known for his contribution and development of Roman law. The Corpus Juris Civilis is still the basis of civil law in many modern states. Justinian was responsible for the complete amendment of Roman Law.
Ques:
9
Chaitra 1 of the national calendar based on the Saka Era corresponds to which one of the following dates of the Gregorian calendar in a normal year of 365 days?
Correct Answer:
(A)
22nd March (or 21st March)
Chaitra is the first month of the Indian national calendar. The dates of national calendar match with Gregorian calendar prominently. Generally, Chaitra starts from 22nd March while from 21st March in a leap year.
Ques:
10
When was Vikram Samvat started?
Correct Answer:
(B)
57 B.C.
Two other names of Vikram Samvat is Krit and Malav. There is the difference of 470 years between the salvation of Mahavir and Vikram Samvat in Jain holy texts. The salvation date of Mahavir is 527 BC. So, the starting date of Vikram Samvat is 527- 470 = 57 BC.