UPSC Static Quiz – History : 1 July 2025

UPSC Static Quiz – History : 1 July 2025 We will post 5 questions daily on static topics mentioned in the UPSC civil services preliminary examination syllabus. Each week will focus on a specific topic from the syllabus, such as History of India and Indian National Movement, Indian and World Geography, and more.We are excited to bring you our daily UPSC Static Quiz, designed to help you prepare for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination. Each day, we will post 5 questions on static topics mentioned in the UPSC syllabus. This week, we are focusing on Indian and World Geography.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Consider the following statements regarding the town planning of the Harappan Civilization: The cities were invariably divided into two parts: a raised citadel for the ruling class and a lower town for the common people. The streets were laid out in a perfect grid pattern, intersecting each other at right angles. An advanced and covered drainage system was a characteristic feature of almost all major Harappan sites. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B The Harappan Civilization is renowned for its sophisticated and systematic urban planning, which was unparalleled in the ancient world. Statement 1 is incorrect. While the division into a western citadel and an eastern lower town is a common feature of major Harappan cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, it was not an invariable or universal pattern. For instance, Dholavira in Gujarat was uniquely divided into three principal parts: a citadel, a middle town, and a lower town, all fortified. Similarly, sites like Lothal and Surkotada did not have such a clear-cut division, and the entire settlement was fortified within a single complex. Chanhudaro was a city without a citadel. Statement 2 is correct. The layout of Harappan cities was based on a grid pattern, with main streets running north-south and east-west, intersecting at right angles. This systematic planning divided the city into rectangular blocks, facilitating organized settlement and movement. This feature is a hallmark of Harappan urban design and points towards a high degree of central planning and engineering skill. Statement 3 is correct. One of the most remarkable features of the Harappan civilization was its advanced sanitation and drainage system. Almost every house had a private bathroom and was connected to a main drain through smaller drains. These drains ran along the streets, were typically covered with bricks or stone slabs, and were equipped with manholes for cleaning. This level of emphasis on public health and hygiene was unique among its contemporaries. Incorrect Solution: B The Harappan Civilization is renowned for its sophisticated and systematic urban planning, which was unparalleled in the ancient world. Statement 1 is incorrect. While the division into a western citadel and an eastern lower town is a common feature of major Harappan cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, it was not an invariable or universal pattern. For instance, Dholavira in Gujarat was uniquely divided into three principal parts: a citadel, a middle town, and a lower town, all fortified. Similarly, sites like Lothal and Surkotada did not have such a clear-cut division, and the entire settlement was fortified within a single complex. Chanhudaro was a city without a citadel. Statement 2 is correct. The layout of Harappan cities was based on a grid pattern, with main streets running north-south and east-west, intersecting at right angles. This systematic planning divided the city into rectangular blocks, facilitating organized settlement and movement. This feature is a hallmark of Harappan urban design and points towards a high degree of central planning and engineering skill. Statement 3 is correct. One of the most remarkable features of the Harappan civilization was its advanced sanitation and drainage system. Almost every house had a private bathroom and was connected to a main drain through smaller drains. These drains ran along the streets, were typically covered with bricks or stone slabs, and were equipped with manholes for cleaning. This level of emphasis on public health and hygiene was unique among its contemporaries.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the town planning of the Harappan Civilization:

• The cities were invariably divided into two parts: a raised citadel for the ruling class and a lower town for the common people.

• The streets were laid out in a perfect grid pattern, intersecting each other at right angles.

• An advanced and covered drainage system was a characteristic feature of almost all major Harappan sites.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

The Harappan Civilization is renowned for its sophisticated and systematic urban planning, which was unparalleled in the ancient world.

• Statement 1 is incorrect. While the division into a western citadel and an eastern lower town is a common feature of major Harappan cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, it was not an invariable or universal pattern. For instance, Dholavira in Gujarat was uniquely divided into three principal parts: a citadel, a middle town, and a lower town, all fortified. Similarly, sites like Lothal and Surkotada did not have such a clear-cut division, and the entire settlement was fortified within a single complex. Chanhudaro was a city without a citadel.

• Statement 2 is correct. The layout of Harappan cities was based on a grid pattern, with main streets running north-south and east-west, intersecting at right angles. This systematic planning divided the city into rectangular blocks, facilitating organized settlement and movement. This feature is a hallmark of Harappan urban design and points towards a high degree of central planning and engineering skill.

Statement 3 is correct. One of the most remarkable features of the Harappan civilization was its advanced sanitation and drainage system. Almost every house had a private bathroom and was connected to a main drain through smaller drains. These drains ran along the streets, were typically covered with bricks or stone slabs, and were equipped with manholes for cleaning. This level of emphasis on public health and hygiene was unique among its contemporaries.

Solution: B

The Harappan Civilization is renowned for its sophisticated and systematic urban planning, which was unparalleled in the ancient world.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements about the religious beliefs of the Harappan people: The worship of a male deity, identified as ‘Pashupati Mahadeva’, is suggested by a seal found at Mohenjo-Daro. Evidence suggests the prevalence of phallus (linga) and yoni worship. Large, monumental temple structures were the central feature of religious life in Harappan cities. They practiced nature worship, venerating trees like the Pipal and certain animals. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: C The religious beliefs of the Harappan civilization are reconstructed from archaeological evidence like seals, terracotta figurines, and structures, as their script remains undeciphered. Statement 1 is correct. One of the most famous Harappan seals, known as the Pashupati Seal, depicts a figure seated in a yogic posture, surrounded by animals (an elephant, a tiger, a rhinoceros, and a buffalo, with two deer at his feet). This figure, with a three-horned headdress, has been identified by some scholars like John Marshall as a prototype of the Hindu god Shiva in his aspect as ‘Pashupati’ (Lord of Animals). Statement 2 is correct. Numerous stone objects, resembling the linga (phallus) and yoni (female generative organ), have been found at Harappan sites. This has led scholars to believe that phallus and yoni worship, which later became closely associated with Shaivism, was a part of Harappan religious practice, likely as fertility symbols. Statement 3 is incorrect. Unlike their contemporaries in Mesopotamia and Egypt, the Harappans did not build large, monumental temples. No structure has been definitively identified as a temple. Religious practices were likely conducted in individual homes, in the open air, or at communal spaces like the Great Bath at Mohenjo-Daro, which may have been used for ritual purification. Statement 4 is correct. There is abundant evidence of nature worship. Seals depicting the Pipal tree suggest its sacredness. Animals were also venerated, with the bull (especially the humped bull) and the mythical unicorn being prominent motifs on seals, likely having religious or mythological significance. Incorrect Solution: C The religious beliefs of the Harappan civilization are reconstructed from archaeological evidence like seals, terracotta figurines, and structures, as their script remains undeciphered. Statement 1 is correct. One of the most famous Harappan seals, known as the Pashupati Seal, depicts a figure seated in a yogic posture, surrounded by animals (an elephant, a tiger, a rhinoceros, and a buffalo, with two deer at his feet). This figure, with a three-horned headdress, has been identified by some scholars like John Marshall as a prototype of the Hindu god Shiva in his aspect as ‘Pashupati’ (Lord of Animals). Statement 2 is correct. Numerous stone objects, resembling the linga (phallus) and yoni (female generative organ), have been found at Harappan sites. This has led scholars to believe that phallus and yoni worship, which later became closely associated with Shaivism, was a part of Harappan religious practice, likely as fertility symbols. Statement 3 is incorrect. Unlike their contemporaries in Mesopotamia and Egypt, the Harappans did not build large, monumental temples. No structure has been definitively identified as a temple. Religious practices were likely conducted in individual homes, in the open air, or at communal spaces like the Great Bath at Mohenjo-Daro, which may have been used for ritual purification. Statement 4 is correct. There is abundant evidence of nature worship. Seals depicting the Pipal tree suggest its sacredness. Animals were also venerated, with the bull (especially the humped bull) and the mythical unicorn being prominent motifs on seals, likely having religious or mythological significance.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements about the religious beliefs of the Harappan people:

• The worship of a male deity, identified as ‘Pashupati Mahadeva’, is suggested by a seal found at Mohenjo-Daro.

• Evidence suggests the prevalence of phallus (linga) and yoni worship.

• Large, monumental temple structures were the central feature of religious life in Harappan cities.

• They practiced nature worship, venerating trees like the Pipal and certain animals.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: C

The religious beliefs of the Harappan civilization are reconstructed from archaeological evidence like seals, terracotta figurines, and structures, as their script remains undeciphered.

• Statement 1 is correct. One of the most famous Harappan seals, known as the Pashupati Seal, depicts a figure seated in a yogic posture, surrounded by animals (an elephant, a tiger, a rhinoceros, and a buffalo, with two deer at his feet). This figure, with a three-horned headdress, has been identified by some scholars like John Marshall as a prototype of the Hindu god Shiva in his aspect as ‘Pashupati’ (Lord of Animals).

• Statement 2 is correct. Numerous stone objects, resembling the linga (phallus) and yoni (female generative organ), have been found at Harappan sites. This has led scholars to believe that phallus and yoni worship, which later became closely associated with Shaivism, was a part of Harappan religious practice, likely as fertility symbols.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. Unlike their contemporaries in Mesopotamia and Egypt, the Harappans did not build large, monumental temples. No structure has been definitively identified as a temple. Religious practices were likely conducted in individual homes, in the open air, or at communal spaces like the Great Bath at Mohenjo-Daro, which may have been used for ritual purification.

• Statement 4 is correct. There is abundant evidence of nature worship. Seals depicting the Pipal tree suggest its sacredness. Animals were also venerated, with the bull (especially the humped bull) and the mythical unicorn being prominent motifs on seals, likely having religious or mythological significance.

Solution: C

The religious beliefs of the Harappan civilization are reconstructed from archaeological evidence like seals, terracotta figurines, and structures, as their script remains undeciphered.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Which of the following factors were responsible for the ultimate success of Magadha over other Mahajanapadas? The strategic location of its capitals, Rajagriha and Pataliputra, which were naturally fortified. Abundant availability of iron ore in the region, which facilitated the production of superior weapons and agricultural tools. Its exclusive adoption of cavalry warfare, which gave it a decisive edge over enemies who primarily used elephants. A succession of ambitious and powerful rulers like Bimbisara, Ajatashatru, and Mahapadma Nanda. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Correct Solution: A Magadha’s rise to imperial dominance was not accidental but was driven by a confluence of unique geographical, economic, and political advantages. Statement 1 is correct. Magadha’s capitals were exceptionally well-protected. Its first capital, Rajagriha (or Girivraja), was surrounded by a natural fortification of five hills. Its later capital, Pataliputra, was situated at the strategic confluence of the Ganga, Son, and Gandak rivers, forming a veritable water-fort (jaladurga) that was easy to defend and crucial for controlling riverine trade and communication. Statement 2 is correct. The region of Magadha (in modern south Bihar) had rich deposits of iron ore (especially in the Chotanagpur plateau region). This enabled the Magadhan rulers to equip their large armies with superior iron weapons and to promote agriculture through the use of iron ploughshares and other tools, leading to economic prosperity and military strength. Statement 3 is incorrect. Magadha’s military strength was not based on an exclusive reliance on cavalry. In fact, one of its unique and decisive military advantages was its pioneering use of elephants on a large scale in warfare. Elephants were effective in storming fortresses, traversing difficult terrain, and creating havoc in enemy ranks. While they also had cavalry, it was the combination of a large standing army with a powerful elephant corps that made them formidable. Statement 4 is correct. Magadha was fortunate to have a series of dynamic, ruthless, and expansionist rulers. Bimbisara of the Haryanka dynasty initiated the policy of expansion through conquest and matrimonial alliances. His son Ajatashatru aggressively continued this policy, conquering powerful rivals like Kosala and Vajji. Later, Mahapadma Nanda, the founder of the Nanda dynasty, further expanded the empire, earning the title Ekarat (sole sovereign) and creating the first pan-Indian empire. Incorrect Solution: A Magadha’s rise to imperial dominance was not accidental but was driven by a confluence of unique geographical, economic, and political advantages. Statement 1 is correct. Magadha’s capitals were exceptionally well-protected. Its first capital, Rajagriha (or Girivraja), was surrounded by a natural fortification of five hills. Its later capital, Pataliputra, was situated at the strategic confluence of the Ganga, Son, and Gandak rivers, forming a veritable water-fort (jaladurga) that was easy to defend and crucial for controlling riverine trade and communication. Statement 2 is correct. The region of Magadha (in modern south Bihar) had rich deposits of iron ore (especially in the Chotanagpur plateau region). This enabled the Magadhan rulers to equip their large armies with superior iron weapons and to promote agriculture through the use of iron ploughshares and other tools, leading to economic prosperity and military strength. Statement 3 is incorrect. Magadha’s military strength was not based on an exclusive reliance on cavalry. In fact, one of its unique and decisive military advantages was its pioneering use of elephants on a large scale in warfare. Elephants were effective in storming fortresses, traversing difficult terrain, and creating havoc in enemy ranks. While they also had cavalry, it was the combination of a large standing army with a powerful elephant corps that made them formidable. Statement 4 is correct. Magadha was fortunate to have a series of dynamic, ruthless, and expansionist rulers. Bimbisara of the Haryanka dynasty initiated the policy of expansion through conquest and matrimonial alliances. His son Ajatashatru aggressively continued this policy, conquering powerful rivals like Kosala and Vajji. Later, Mahapadma Nanda, the founder of the Nanda dynasty, further expanded the empire, earning the title Ekarat (sole sovereign) and creating the first pan-Indian empire.

#### 3. Question

Which of the following factors were responsible for the ultimate success of Magadha over other Mahajanapadas?

• The strategic location of its capitals, Rajagriha and Pataliputra, which were naturally fortified.

• Abundant availability of iron ore in the region, which facilitated the production of superior weapons and agricultural tools.

• Its exclusive adoption of cavalry warfare, which gave it a decisive edge over enemies who primarily used elephants.

• A succession of ambitious and powerful rulers like Bimbisara, Ajatashatru, and Mahapadma Nanda.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

• (b) 1 and 3 only

• (c) 2 and 4 only

• (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Solution: A

Magadha’s rise to imperial dominance was not accidental but was driven by a confluence of unique geographical, economic, and political advantages.

• Statement 1 is correct. Magadha’s capitals were exceptionally well-protected. Its first capital, Rajagriha (or Girivraja), was surrounded by a natural fortification of five hills. Its later capital, Pataliputra, was situated at the strategic confluence of the Ganga, Son, and Gandak rivers, forming a veritable water-fort (jaladurga) that was easy to defend and crucial for controlling riverine trade and communication.

• Statement 2 is correct. The region of Magadha (in modern south Bihar) had rich deposits of iron ore (especially in the Chotanagpur plateau region). This enabled the Magadhan rulers to equip their large armies with superior iron weapons and to promote agriculture through the use of iron ploughshares and other tools, leading to economic prosperity and military strength.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. Magadha’s military strength was not based on an exclusive reliance on cavalry. In fact, one of its unique and decisive military advantages was its pioneering use of elephants on a large scale in warfare. Elephants were effective in storming fortresses, traversing difficult terrain, and creating havoc in enemy ranks. While they also had cavalry, it was the combination of a large standing army with a powerful elephant corps that made them formidable.

• Statement 4 is correct. Magadha was fortunate to have a series of dynamic, ruthless, and expansionist rulers. Bimbisara of the Haryanka dynasty initiated the policy of expansion through conquest and matrimonial alliances. His son Ajatashatru aggressively continued this policy, conquering powerful rivals like Kosala and Vajji. Later, Mahapadma Nanda, the founder of the Nanda dynasty, further expanded the empire, earning the title Ekarat (sole sovereign) and creating the first pan-Indian empire.

Solution: A

Magadha’s rise to imperial dominance was not accidental but was driven by a confluence of unique geographical, economic, and political advantages.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Which of the following sources provide significant information about the Mauryan period? Kautilya’s Arthashastra Megasthenes’ Indica The Puranas Ashokan Edicts Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 2 and 4 only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Correct Solution: D Kautilya’s *Arthashastra: This Sanskrit treatise on statecraft, traditionally attributed to Chandragupta Maurya’s chief minister Chanakya (Kautilya), is one of the most important sources. Though its exact dating is debated, it provides a detailed, prescriptive account of Mauryan administration, economic policy, taxation, military strategy, and legal systems. Megasthenes’ Indica*: Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador sent by Seleucus Nicator to the court of Chandragupta Maurya. His work, *Indica*, though now lost in its original form, survives in fragments quoted by later Greek and Roman writers like Strabo, Diodorus, and Arrian. It offers a valuable contemporary, albeit sometimes flawed, foreign perspective on the administration of Pataliputra, the social structure, and the economic life of the empire. The Puranas: The Puranas, which are Brahmanical religious texts compiled over centuries, contain genealogical lists of kings (*vamshanucharita*). While often mythological, these lists provide valuable information on the succession of Mauryan rulers and help corroborate information from other sources, especially regarding the dynasty’s origins and its end. Ashokan Edicts: The inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka, engraved on rocks and pillars across the subcontinent, are a unique and unparalleled source. As the first Indian king to speak directly to his people through inscriptions, his edicts provide firsthand information about his policy of Dhamma, administrative reforms, the extent of his empire, and key events like the Kalinga War. They are contemporary, authentic, and invaluable archaeological sources. Incorrect Solution: D Kautilya’s Arthashastra: This Sanskrit treatise on statecraft, traditionally attributed to Chandragupta Maurya’s chief minister Chanakya (Kautilya), is one of the most important sources. Though its exact dating is debated, it provides a detailed, prescriptive account of Mauryan administration, economic policy, taxation, military strategy, and legal systems. Megasthenes’ Indica: Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador sent by Seleucus Nicator to the court of Chandragupta Maurya. His work, *Indica*, though now lost in its original form, survives in fragments quoted by later Greek and Roman writers like Strabo, Diodorus, and Arrian. It offers a valuable contemporary, albeit sometimes flawed, foreign perspective on the administration of Pataliputra, the social structure, and the economic life of the empire. The Puranas: The Puranas, which are Brahmanical religious texts compiled over centuries, contain genealogical lists of kings (*vamshanucharita*). While often mythological, these lists provide valuable information on the succession of Mauryan rulers and help corroborate information from other sources, especially regarding the dynasty’s origins and its end. Ashokan Edicts: The inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka, engraved on rocks and pillars across the subcontinent, are a unique and unparalleled source. As the first Indian king to speak directly to his people through inscriptions, his edicts provide firsthand information about his policy of Dhamma**, administrative reforms, the extent of his empire, and key events like the Kalinga War. They are contemporary, authentic, and invaluable archaeological sources.

#### 4. Question

Which of the following sources provide significant information about the Mauryan period?

• Kautilya’s Arthashastra

• Megasthenes’ Indica

• The Puranas

• Ashokan Edicts

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 1, 2 and 4 only

• (c) 3 and 4 only

• (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Solution: D

• Kautilya’s *Arthashastra*: This Sanskrit treatise on statecraft, traditionally attributed to Chandragupta Maurya’s chief minister Chanakya (Kautilya), is one of the most important sources. Though its exact dating is debated, it provides a detailed, prescriptive account of Mauryan administration, economic policy, taxation, military strategy, and legal systems.

• Megasthenes’ *Indica: Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador sent by Seleucus Nicator to the court of Chandragupta Maurya. His work, Indica*, though now lost in its original form, survives in fragments quoted by later Greek and Roman writers like Strabo, Diodorus, and Arrian. It offers a valuable contemporary, albeit sometimes flawed, foreign perspective on the administration of Pataliputra, the social structure, and the economic life of the empire.

• The Puranas: The Puranas, which are Brahmanical religious texts compiled over centuries, contain genealogical lists of kings (vamshanucharita). While often mythological, these lists provide valuable information on the succession of Mauryan rulers and help corroborate information from other sources, especially regarding the dynasty’s origins and its end.

• Ashokan Edicts: The inscriptions of Emperor Ashoka, engraved on rocks and pillars across the subcontinent, are a unique and unparalleled source. As the first Indian king to speak directly to his people through inscriptions, his edicts provide firsthand information about his policy of Dhamma, administrative reforms, the extent of his empire, and key events like the Kalinga War. They are contemporary, authentic, and invaluable archaeological sources.

Solution: D

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Sunga and Kanva dynasties: The Kanva dynasty was founded by Vasudeva, who was a minister of the last Sunga king, Devabhuti. Both dynasties ruled over a vast pan-Indian empire comparable in size to that of the Mauryas. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution: A The Sunga and Kanva dynasties succeeded the Mauryas in Magadha and parts of North India. Statement 1 is correct. The Sunga dynasty ended around 73 BCE when its last ruler, Devabhuti, who was known for his dissolute lifestyle, was assassinated. The coup was engineered by his own Brahmana minister, Vasudeva Kanva, who then established the Kanva dynasty. This pattern of a minister overthrowing the king mirrored the rise of the Sungas themselves. Statement 2 is incorrect. Neither the Sungas nor the Kanvas ruled over an empire comparable in size to that of the Mauryas. After the Mauryas, the subcontinent fragmented. The Sungas ruled over the core Magadhan territories and parts of central India, but they constantly had to contend with foreign invaders like the Indo-Greeks in the northwest and other regional powers. The Kanva rule was even more restricted, largely confined to Magadha, and lasted for a very short period (c. 73-28 BCE) before they were overthrown by the Satavahanas from the Deccan. Incorrect Solution: A The Sunga and Kanva dynasties succeeded the Mauryas in Magadha and parts of North India. Statement 1 is correct. The Sunga dynasty ended around 73 BCE when its last ruler, Devabhuti, who was known for his dissolute lifestyle, was assassinated. The coup was engineered by his own Brahmana minister, Vasudeva Kanva, who then established the Kanva dynasty. This pattern of a minister overthrowing the king mirrored the rise of the Sungas themselves. Statement 2 is incorrect. Neither the Sungas nor the Kanvas ruled over an empire comparable in size to that of the Mauryas. After the Mauryas, the subcontinent fragmented. The Sungas ruled over the core Magadhan territories and parts of central India, but they constantly had to contend with foreign invaders like the Indo-Greeks in the northwest and other regional powers. The Kanva rule was even more restricted, largely confined to Magadha, and lasted for a very short period (c. 73-28 BCE) before they were overthrown by the Satavahanas from the Deccan.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Sunga and Kanva dynasties:

• The Kanva dynasty was founded by Vasudeva, who was a minister of the last Sunga king, Devabhuti.

• Both dynasties ruled over a vast pan-Indian empire comparable in size to that of the Mauryas.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: A

The Sunga and Kanva dynasties succeeded the Mauryas in Magadha and parts of North India.

• Statement 1 is correct. The Sunga dynasty ended around 73 BCE when its last ruler, Devabhuti, who was known for his dissolute lifestyle, was assassinated. The coup was engineered by his own Brahmana minister, Vasudeva Kanva, who then established the Kanva dynasty. This pattern of a minister overthrowing the king mirrored the rise of the Sungas themselves.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. Neither the Sungas nor the Kanvas ruled over an empire comparable in size to that of the Mauryas. After the Mauryas, the subcontinent fragmented. The Sungas ruled over the core Magadhan territories and parts of central India, but they constantly had to contend with foreign invaders like the Indo-Greeks in the northwest and other regional powers. The Kanva rule was even more restricted, largely confined to Magadha, and lasted for a very short period (c. 73-28 BCE) before they were overthrown by the Satavahanas from the Deccan.

Solution: A

The Sunga and Kanva dynasties succeeded the Mauryas in Magadha and parts of North India.

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