UPSC Static Quiz – History : 23 August 2025

UPSC Static Quiz – History : 23 August 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 With reference to the political organization of the Early Vedic period, consider the following statements: The Rajan (king) was an absolute monarch with unlimited powers, and the position was strictly hereditary. The Sabha and Samiti were two important tribal assemblies that exercised deliberative and military functions, acting as checks on the king’s authority. A regular standing army was maintained by the king, funded by a formal system of taxation called Bali. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A The political structure of the Early Vedic period was tribal and largely egalitarian, differing significantly from the monarchies of later periods. Statement 1 is incorrect. The Rajan or the tribal chief was not an absolute monarch. His authority was significantly limited by the tribal assemblies, the Sabha and Samiti. His primary role was to protect the tribe and lead it in war. While the position could be hereditary, there are indications that the Samiti could elect or re-elect the king, suggesting that popular approval was necessary. Statement 2 is correct. The Sabha (an assembly of elders or important tribal members) and the Samiti (a broader folk assembly) were the two most important political bodies. They played a crucial role in governance, participating in discussions, and exercising checks on the Rajan’s power. The Rig Veda suggests that the king’s success depended on gaining the support of these assemblies. Women were also allowed to attend the Sabha in this period. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Early Vedic polity did not have a regular standing army or a formal taxation system. The army was essentially a tribal militia, composed of able-bodied members of the clan (grama or vish) who were mobilized during times of war. The term Bali, in this period, referred to a voluntary offering or tribute given by the people to the chief, not a compulsory tax. The king’s revenue was primarily derived from these voluntary offerings and the spoils of war. Incorrect Solution: A The political structure of the Early Vedic period was tribal and largely egalitarian, differing significantly from the monarchies of later periods. Statement 1 is incorrect. The Rajan or the tribal chief was not an absolute monarch. His authority was significantly limited by the tribal assemblies, the Sabha and Samiti. His primary role was to protect the tribe and lead it in war. While the position could be hereditary, there are indications that the Samiti could elect or re-elect the king, suggesting that popular approval was necessary. Statement 2 is correct. The Sabha (an assembly of elders or important tribal members) and the Samiti (a broader folk assembly) were the two most important political bodies. They played a crucial role in governance, participating in discussions, and exercising checks on the Rajan’s power. The Rig Veda suggests that the king’s success depended on gaining the support of these assemblies. Women were also allowed to attend the Sabha in this period. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Early Vedic polity did not have a regular standing army or a formal taxation system. The army was essentially a tribal militia, composed of able-bodied members of the clan (grama or vish) who were mobilized during times of war. The term Bali, in this period, referred to a voluntary offering or tribute given by the people to the chief, not a compulsory tax. The king’s revenue was primarily derived from these voluntary offerings and the spoils of war.

#### 1. Question

With reference to the political organization of the Early Vedic period, consider the following statements:

• The Rajan (king) was an absolute monarch with unlimited powers, and the position was strictly hereditary.

• The Sabha and Samiti were two important tribal assemblies that exercised deliberative and military functions, acting as checks on the king’s authority.

• A regular standing army was maintained by the king, funded by a formal system of taxation called Bali.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

The political structure of the Early Vedic period was tribal and largely egalitarian, differing significantly from the monarchies of later periods.

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The Rajan or the tribal chief was not an absolute monarch. His authority was significantly limited by the tribal assemblies, the Sabha and Samiti. His primary role was to protect the tribe and lead it in war. While the position could be hereditary, there are indications that the Samiti could elect or re-elect the king, suggesting that popular approval was necessary.

• Statement 2 is correct. The Sabha (an assembly of elders or important tribal members) and the Samiti (a broader folk assembly) were the two most important political bodies. They played a crucial role in governance, participating in discussions, and exercising checks on the Rajan’s power. The Rig Veda suggests that the king’s success depended on gaining the support of these assemblies. Women were also allowed to attend the Sabha in this period.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. The Early Vedic polity did not have a regular standing army or a formal taxation system. The army was essentially a tribal militia, composed of able-bodied members of the clan (grama or vish) who were mobilized during times of war. The term Bali, in this period, referred to a voluntary offering or tribute given by the people to the chief, not a compulsory tax. The king’s revenue was primarily derived from these voluntary offerings and the spoils of war.

Solution: A

The political structure of the Early Vedic period was tribal and largely egalitarian, differing significantly from the monarchies of later periods.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Match the following foreign rulers/dynasties with the administrative or cultural practices associated with them. List I (Ruler/Dynasty) List II (Practice/Contribution) A. Sakas 1. Introduction of the Satrap system of government B. Parthians 2. Patronage of the Gandhara School of Art C. Kanishka 3. Association with the arrival of St. Thomas in India D. Kushanas 4. Convening of the Fourth Buddhist Council Select the correct answer code: (a) A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2 (b) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3 (c) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4 (d) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2 Correct Solution: A Sakas: The Sakas (or Indo-Scythians) adopted and popularized the Satrap system of provincial government, which they inherited from the Achaemenid Persians and the Indo-Greeks. Their empire was divided into provinces ruled by military governors called Kshatrapas or Mahakshatrapas. The Western Kshatrapas of Ujjain are a prominent example. Thus, A matches with 1. Parthians: The most famous Indo-Parthian ruler was Gondophares. According to Christian tradition, St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is believed to have travelled to India during his reign to spread Christianity. Thus, B matches with 3. Kanishka: The great Kushan emperor Kanishka was a fervent patron of Buddhism. He is credited with convening the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir (or Jalandhar according to some sources). This council was a landmark event, as it marked the formal split between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism and saw the compilation of key Mahayana texts. Thus, C matches with 4. Kushanas: The Kushan period, particularly the reign of Kanishka, is considered the golden age of the Gandhara School of Art. This school, which blended Indian themes with Greco-Roman artistic techniques, flourished under Kushan patronage, producing a large number of iconic sculptures of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. Thus, D matches with 2. Incorrect Solution: A Sakas: The Sakas (or Indo-Scythians) adopted and popularized the Satrap system of provincial government, which they inherited from the Achaemenid Persians and the Indo-Greeks. Their empire was divided into provinces ruled by military governors called Kshatrapas or Mahakshatrapas. The Western Kshatrapas of Ujjain are a prominent example. Thus, A matches with 1. Parthians: The most famous Indo-Parthian ruler was Gondophares. According to Christian tradition, St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is believed to have travelled to India during his reign to spread Christianity. Thus, B matches with 3. Kanishka: The great Kushan emperor Kanishka was a fervent patron of Buddhism. He is credited with convening the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir (or Jalandhar according to some sources). This council was a landmark event, as it marked the formal split between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism and saw the compilation of key Mahayana texts. Thus, C matches with 4. Kushanas: The Kushan period, particularly the reign of Kanishka, is considered the golden age of the Gandhara School of Art. This school, which blended Indian themes with Greco-Roman artistic techniques, flourished under Kushan patronage, producing a large number of iconic sculptures of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. Thus, D matches with 2.

#### 2. Question

Match the following foreign rulers/dynasties with the administrative or cultural practices associated with them.

List I (Ruler/Dynasty) | List II (Practice/Contribution)

A. Sakas | 1. Introduction of the Satrap system of government

B. Parthians | 2. Patronage of the Gandhara School of Art

C. Kanishka | 3. Association with the arrival of St. Thomas in India

D. Kushanas | 4. Convening of the Fourth Buddhist Council

Select the correct answer code:

• (a) A-1, B-3, C-4, D-2

• (b) A-2, B-4, C-1, D-3

• (c) A-1, B-2, C-3, D-4

• (d) A-3, B-1, C-4, D-2

Solution: A

• Sakas: The Sakas (or Indo-Scythians) adopted and popularized the Satrap system of provincial government, which they inherited from the Achaemenid Persians and the Indo-Greeks. Their empire was divided into provinces ruled by military governors called Kshatrapas or Mahakshatrapas. The Western Kshatrapas of Ujjain are a prominent example. Thus, A matches with 1.

• Parthians: The most famous Indo-Parthian ruler was Gondophares. According to Christian tradition, St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is believed to have travelled to India during his reign to spread Christianity. Thus, B matches with 3.

• Kanishka: The great Kushan emperor Kanishka was a fervent patron of Buddhism. He is credited with convening the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir (or Jalandhar according to some sources). This council was a landmark event, as it marked the formal split between Mahayana and Hinayana Buddhism and saw the compilation of key Mahayana texts. Thus, C matches with 4.

• Kushanas: The Kushan period, particularly the reign of Kanishka, is considered the golden age of the Gandhara School of Art. This school, which blended Indian themes with Greco-Roman artistic techniques, flourished under Kushan patronage, producing a large number of iconic sculptures of the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. Thus, D matches with 2.

Solution: A

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question With reference to the society in the post-Gupta period (c. 600-750 CE), which of the following statements is/are correct? The period saw an increase in the practice of land grants to officials and Brahmanas, leading to the growth of a feudal-like political and economic structure. The social status of women generally improved, with practices like Sati declining and widow remarriage becoming widely accepted. The Varna system became more rigid, and the number of sub-castes proliferated. Select the correct answer code: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: C Statement 1 is correct. The practice of granting land to officials in lieu of salaries and to Brahmanas for religious merit, which began earlier, became much more widespread during this period. Harsha’s reign, in particular, is noted for marking the beginning of feudalism in India. These land grants created a class of powerful intermediaries and a decentralized, feudal-like polity and economy. Statement 2 is incorrect. The social status of women generally declined during this period compared to earlier times. The practice of Sati (widow immolation) became more prevalent, and widow remarriage was generally forbidden, especially in the higher castes. Women’s access to education and public life was also restricted. Statement 3 is correct. The four-fold Varna system became more rigid during this period. Hiuen Tsang’s accounts confirm the existence of the four traditional divisions. Furthermore, with the absorption of various tribes and the emergence of new occupational groups, the number of sub-castes (jatis) increased significantly, making the social structure more complex and hierarchical. Incorrect Solution: C Statement 1 is correct. The practice of granting land to officials in lieu of salaries and to Brahmanas for religious merit, which began earlier, became much more widespread during this period. Harsha’s reign, in particular, is noted for marking the beginning of feudalism in India. These land grants created a class of powerful intermediaries and a decentralized, feudal-like polity and economy. Statement 2 is incorrect. The social status of women generally declined during this period compared to earlier times. The practice of Sati (widow immolation) became more prevalent, and widow remarriage was generally forbidden, especially in the higher castes. Women’s access to education and public life was also restricted. Statement 3 is correct. The four-fold Varna system became more rigid during this period. Hiuen Tsang’s accounts confirm the existence of the four traditional divisions. Furthermore, with the absorption of various tribes and the emergence of new occupational groups, the number of sub-castes (jatis) increased significantly, making the social structure more complex and hierarchical.

#### 3. Question

With reference to the society in the post-Gupta period (c. 600-750 CE), which of the following statements is/are correct?

• The period saw an increase in the practice of land grants to officials and Brahmanas, leading to the growth of a feudal-like political and economic structure.

• The social status of women generally improved, with practices like Sati declining and widow remarriage becoming widely accepted.

• The Varna system became more rigid, and the number of sub-castes proliferated.

Select the correct answer code:

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 and 3 only

• (c) 1 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: C

• Statement 1 is correct. The practice of granting land to officials in lieu of salaries and to Brahmanas for religious merit, which began earlier, became much more widespread during this period. Harsha’s reign, in particular, is noted for marking the beginning of feudalism in India. These land grants created a class of powerful intermediaries and a decentralized, feudal-like polity and economy.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The social status of women generally declined during this period compared to earlier times. The practice of Sati (widow immolation) became more prevalent, and widow remarriage was generally forbidden, especially in the higher castes. Women’s access to education and public life was also restricted.

• Statement 3 is correct. The four-fold Varna system became more rigid during this period. Hiuen Tsang’s accounts confirm the existence of the four traditional divisions. Furthermore, with the absorption of various tribes and the emergence of new occupational groups, the number of sub-castes (jatis) increased significantly, making the social structure more complex and hierarchical.

Solution: C

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements about Chola art and architecture: The primary feature of a Chola temple is the towering gopuram (gateway), which is more ornate and taller than the central vimana (tower over the sanctum). The lost-wax technique was used to create the world-renowned Chola bronze sculptures, most famously the Nataraja icon. The walls of the Brihadeeswarar temple at Thanjavur are adorned with murals that depict scenes from the life of Rajaraja I. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B The Cholas were prolific builders and patrons of the arts, perfecting the Dravidian style. Statement 1 is incorrect. The defining feature of the Imperial Chola temple architecture is the massive vimana, the tower rising directly above the main sanctum (garbhagriha). In Chola temples like the Brihadeeswarar at Thanjavur, the vimana is the tallest and most dominant structure. The practice of building colossal gopurams that dwarfed the central vimana became a characteristic feature of the later Pandya and Vijayanagara periods, not the Chola period. Chola gopurams were relatively modest in size. Statement 2 is correct. Chola artisans achieved unparalleled mastery in the art of bronze casting using the cire-perdue or lost-wax technique. This process allowed for intricate detailing and graceful forms. The most iconic creation of this tradition is the Nataraja (Shiva as the Lord of Dance), a cosmic and spiritual symbol that is considered a masterpiece of world art. These bronze icons were created as processional deities (utsava murtis) for temple festivals. Statement 3 is correct. The Brihadeeswarar temple at Thanjavur, built by Rajaraja I, contains some of the finest surviving examples of Chola painting. The murals are found in the circumambulatory passage around the sanctum. Among the various depictions of mythological themes, there are also portraits believed to be of Rajaraja I and his guru, Karuvur Devar. These paintings provide valuable insights into the art, religion, and courtly life of the Chola period. Incorrect Solution: B The Cholas were prolific builders and patrons of the arts, perfecting the Dravidian style. Statement 1 is incorrect. The defining feature of the Imperial Chola temple architecture is the massive vimana, the tower rising directly above the main sanctum (garbhagriha). In Chola temples like the Brihadeeswarar at Thanjavur, the vimana is the tallest and most dominant structure. The practice of building colossal gopurams that dwarfed the central vimana became a characteristic feature of the later Pandya and Vijayanagara periods, not the Chola period. Chola gopurams were relatively modest in size. Statement 2 is correct. Chola artisans achieved unparalleled mastery in the art of bronze casting using the cire-perdue or lost-wax technique. This process allowed for intricate detailing and graceful forms. The most iconic creation of this tradition is the Nataraja (Shiva as the Lord of Dance), a cosmic and spiritual symbol that is considered a masterpiece of world art. These bronze icons were created as processional deities (utsava murtis) for temple festivals. Statement 3 is correct. The Brihadeeswarar temple at Thanjavur, built by Rajaraja I, contains some of the finest surviving examples of Chola painting. The murals are found in the circumambulatory passage around the sanctum. Among the various depictions of mythological themes, there are also portraits believed to be of Rajaraja I and his guru, Karuvur Devar. These paintings provide valuable insights into the art, religion, and courtly life of the Chola period.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements about Chola art and architecture:

• The primary feature of a Chola temple is the towering gopuram (gateway), which is more ornate and taller than the central vimana (tower over the sanctum).

• The lost-wax technique was used to create the world-renowned Chola bronze sculptures, most famously the Nataraja icon.

• The walls of the Brihadeeswarar temple at Thanjavur are adorned with murals that depict scenes from the life of Rajaraja I.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• The Cholas were prolific builders and patrons of the arts, perfecting the Dravidian style.

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The defining feature of the Imperial Chola temple architecture is the massive vimana, the tower rising directly above the main sanctum (garbhagriha). In Chola temples like the Brihadeeswarar at Thanjavur, the vimana is the tallest and most dominant structure. The practice of building colossal gopurams that dwarfed the central vimana became a characteristic feature of the later Pandya and Vijayanagara periods, not the Chola period. Chola gopurams were relatively modest in size.

• Statement 2 is correct. Chola artisans achieved unparalleled mastery in the art of bronze casting using the cire-perdue or lost-wax technique. This process allowed for intricate detailing and graceful forms. The most iconic creation of this tradition is the Nataraja (Shiva as the Lord of Dance), a cosmic and spiritual symbol that is considered a masterpiece of world art. These bronze icons were created as processional deities (utsava murtis) for temple festivals.

• Statement 3 is correct. The Brihadeeswarar temple at Thanjavur, built by Rajaraja I, contains some of the finest surviving examples of Chola painting. The murals are found in the circumambulatory passage around the sanctum. Among the various depictions of mythological themes, there are also portraits believed to be of Rajaraja I and his guru, Karuvur Devar. These paintings provide valuable insights into the art, religion, and courtly life of the Chola period.

Solution: B

• The Cholas were prolific builders and patrons of the arts, perfecting the Dravidian style.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements: The Hoysala dynasty established their kingdom in the early eighth century AD. The Yadava dynasty established their kingdom in the early eighth century AD. The Kakatiya dynasty established their kingdom in the early eighth century AD. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect. The Hoysalas began as feudatories of the Western Chalukyas and emerged as a notable power in the 11th century. They declared full independence and rose to prominence under King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century (c. 1108–1152 CE). The early eighth century AD is far too early for their establishment as a kingdom. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Yadavas of Devagiri also started as feudatories of the Rashtrakutas and later the Western Chalukyas. They came into prominence and asserted their independence in the last quarter of the 12th century under Bhillama V (c. 1175–1191 CE). The early eighth century AD is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Kakatiyas, like the others, were long-serving feudatories of the Rashtrakutas and Western Chalukyas. They assumed sovereignty and established an independent kingdom under Prataparudra I around 1163 CE. Again, the early eighth century AD is incorrect. None of these dynasties established their kingdoms in the early eighth century AD. They were all feudatory powers during that period, and their rise to sovereign status occurred much later, primarily between the 11th and 12th centuries. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect. The Hoysalas began as feudatories of the Western Chalukyas and emerged as a notable power in the 11th century. They declared full independence and rose to prominence under King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century (c. 1108–1152 CE). The early eighth century AD is far too early for their establishment as a kingdom. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Yadavas of Devagiri also started as feudatories of the Rashtrakutas and later the Western Chalukyas. They came into prominence and asserted their independence in the last quarter of the 12th century under Bhillama V (c. 1175–1191 CE). The early eighth century AD is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Kakatiyas, like the others, were long-serving feudatories of the Rashtrakutas and Western Chalukyas. They assumed sovereignty and established an independent kingdom under Prataparudra I around 1163 CE. Again, the early eighth century AD is incorrect. None of these dynasties established their kingdoms in the early eighth century AD. They were all feudatory powers during that period, and their rise to sovereign status occurred much later, primarily between the 11th and 12th centuries.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements:

• The Hoysala dynasty established their kingdom in the early eighth century AD.

• The Yadava dynasty established their kingdom in the early eighth century AD.

• The Kakatiya dynasty established their kingdom in the early eighth century AD.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The Hoysalas began as feudatories of the Western Chalukyas and emerged as a notable power in the 11th century. They declared full independence and rose to prominence under King Vishnuvardhana in the 12th century (c. 1108–1152 CE). The early eighth century AD is far too early for their establishment as a kingdom.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The Yadavas of Devagiri also started as feudatories of the Rashtrakutas and later the Western Chalukyas. They came into prominence and asserted their independence in the last quarter of the 12th century under Bhillama V (c. 1175–1191 CE). The early eighth century AD is incorrect.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. The Kakatiyas, like the others, were long-serving feudatories of the Rashtrakutas and Western Chalukyas. They assumed sovereignty and established an independent kingdom under Prataparudra I around 1163 CE. Again, the early eighth century AD is incorrect.

None of these dynasties established their kingdoms in the early eighth century AD. They were all feudatory powers during that period, and their rise to sovereign status occurred much later, primarily between the 11th and 12th centuries.

Solution: D

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