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GS Paper IUPSC Prelims 1998
South Indian Kingdoms
Question No. 74Interactive Test Mode
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+2-0.66

Q74. Which one of the following ancient Indian records is the earliest royal order to preserve food grains to be utilized during crises in the country?

Which one of the following ancient Indian records is the earliest royal order to preserve food grains to be utilized during crises in the country?

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Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution

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Official UPSC Answer KeyUPSC Prelims 1998 • Ancient History

Correct Answer: Option (A) — Sohgaura copper-plate

Concept & Option Breakdown

Standard Reference Verified

The Sohgaura copper-plate inscription (found in Gorakhpur district, Uttar Pradesh) dates to the Mauryan period and is written in Brahmi script. It contains a royal order directing the maintenance of two granaries (kosthagara) stocked with grain to provide relief to the public during famines and drought emergencies.

Elimination Heuristic & Exam Approach

Sohgaura (UP) and Mahasthangarh (Bengal) are the two classic Mauryan inscriptions that explicitly mention state famine relief and grain storage policies.

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Question Specifications & Syllabus Mapping

Examination & YearUPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 1998 (Q74)
Paper & Marking SchemeGS Paper I • 2 Marks (-0.66 Negative for incorrect response)
Syllabus Subject & TopicAncient History → South Indian Kingdoms
Official Answer KeyOption (A) — Sohgaura copper-plate

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Frequently Asked Questions — UPSC Prelims 1998 Q74

What is the official answer for UPSC Prelims 1998 GS Paper I Question 74 (Ancient History)?

The official UPSC answer key for this 1998 Ancient History (South Indian Kingdoms) question is Option (A): "Sohgaura copper-plate". Correct attempts carry 2 Marks with -0.66 Negative penalty for wrong answers.

Which UPSC Prelims syllabus topic does this 1998 question belong to?

This question belongs to GS Paper I under the subject "Ancient History" and micro-topic "South Indian Kingdoms". You can explore all repeated questions from South Indian Kingdoms in Acme AI's 3D Prelims PYQ Realm or practice 50 full-length and sectional tests in the APT Prelims Test Series.

How can I solve this South Indian Kingdoms UPSC Prelims question using option elimination?

Sohgaura (UP) and Mahasthangarh (Bengal) are the two classic Mauryan inscriptions that explicitly mention state famine relief and grain storage policies.

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