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GS Paper IUPSC Prelims 1999
Mauryan Empire
Question No. 36Interactive Test Mode
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Q36. Which one of the following was initially the most powerful city-state of India in the 6th century B.C.?

Which one of the following was initially the most powerful city-state of India in the 6th century B.C.?

Select the correct option below (or cross out options to eliminate)
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Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution

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Official UPSC Answer KeyUPSC Prelims 1999 • Ancient History

Correct Answer: Option (D) — Magadha

Concept & Option Breakdown

Standard Reference Verified

Among the sixteen Mahajanapadas of the 6th century BCE, Magadha emerged as the most powerful state due to its strategic location, rich iron deposits (at Rajgir), fertile Gangetic alluvium, forest resources for war elephants, and capable rulers like Bimbisara and Ajatashatru.

Elimination Heuristic & Exam Approach

Magadha's natural resources and strategic geographical advantages allowed it to conquer neighbouring Mahajanapadas and build the first imperial power.

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Question Specifications & Syllabus Mapping

Examination & YearUPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 1999 (Q36)
Paper & Marking SchemeGS Paper I • 2 Marks (-0.66 Negative for incorrect response)
Syllabus Subject & TopicAncient History → Mauryan Empire
Official Answer KeyOption (D) — Magadha

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Frequently Asked Questions — UPSC Prelims 1999 Q36

What is the official answer for UPSC Prelims 1999 GS Paper I Question 36 (Ancient History)?

The official UPSC answer key for this 1999 Ancient History (Mauryan Empire) question is Option (D): "Magadha". Correct attempts carry 2 Marks with -0.66 Negative penalty for wrong answers.

Which UPSC Prelims syllabus topic does this 1999 question belong to?

This question belongs to GS Paper I under the subject "Ancient History" and micro-topic "Mauryan Empire". You can explore all repeated questions from Mauryan Empire 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 Mauryan Empire UPSC Prelims question using option elimination?

Magadha's natural resources and strategic geographical advantages allowed it to conquer neighbouring Mahajanapadas and build the first imperial power.

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