Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The period between 750 and 1200 CE witnessed significant transformations in the Indian subcontinent, marked by the rise of regional kingdoms following the decline of Harsha’s empire. Agriculture remained the backbone of the economy, supporting a growing population and fueling the political and cultural developments of the era. However, this agricultural economy wasn’t monolithic; it varied considerably across regions, influenced by geography, local traditions, and the policies of ruling dynasties. This period saw the consolidation of agricultural practices, the emergence of new technologies, and evolving land revenue systems, all of which shaped the socio-economic landscape of early medieval India.
Agricultural Practices and Technological Advancements
The agricultural practices during 750-1200 CE were largely continuations of earlier traditions, but with notable refinements. Rice cultivation remained dominant in eastern and southern India, while wheat and barley were prevalent in the north and western regions. The introduction of new crops like areca nut, coconut, and various fruits diversified agricultural production.
- Irrigation: Significant advancements were made in irrigation technology. The construction of tanks (reservoirs) and canals became widespread, particularly in South India under the Cholas. These irrigation systems were often community-managed, demonstrating a degree of local autonomy.
- Tools & Techniques: The use of iron tools, including ploughs, sickles, and axes, became more common, enhancing agricultural productivity. However, the pace of technological innovation remained relatively slow.
- Crop Rotation & Manuring: Evidence suggests the practice of crop rotation and the use of manure to maintain soil fertility, indicating a degree of agricultural knowledge.
Land Revenue Systems and Agrarian Relations
The land revenue system was central to the agricultural economy and the political power of the rulers. Different regions adopted varying systems:
| Region | Land Revenue System | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| North India (e.g., Gurjara-Pratiharas) | Land Grants (Samanta System) | Revenue collection often delegated to intermediaries (Samantas) who enjoyed considerable autonomy. This led to a feudal-like structure. |
| South India (e.g., Cholas) | Village Assemblies (Ur & Sabha) | Land surveys were conducted, and land was classified based on fertility. Revenue was collected directly from cultivators through village assemblies. |
| Eastern India (e.g., Palas) | Mixed System | Combination of direct collection and grants to religious institutions. |
The increasing prevalence of land grants to Brahmanas and temples had a significant impact on agrarian relations. While these grants often promoted agricultural expansion, they also led to the emergence of a landlord class and the gradual decline of peasant proprietorship in some areas.
Agricultural Economy and Trade
Agricultural surplus facilitated internal and external trade.
- Internal Trade: A network of local markets and long-distance trade routes connected different regions. Agricultural commodities like grains, spices, and textiles were exchanged.
- External Trade: Indian agricultural products, particularly spices, were in high demand in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and even Europe. Ports like Tamralipti and Mahabalipuram served as major hubs for maritime trade.
- Guilds: Agricultural guilds (Shrenis) played a role in regulating production, trade, and quality control.
However, trade was often disrupted by political instability and the lack of a unified currency system.
Social Stratification and Agricultural Labour
The agricultural economy was deeply intertwined with the existing social hierarchy.
- Varna System: The Varna system influenced access to land and agricultural resources. Brahmins and Kshatriyas generally enjoyed privileged access, while Shudras and lower castes often performed agricultural labour.
- Labour Systems: Various forms of agricultural labour existed, including free peasants, tenant farmers, and landless labourers. The use of forced labour (Vetti) was also prevalent in some regions.
- Role of Women: Women played a significant role in agricultural activities, particularly in tasks like sowing, harvesting, and winnowing.
Conclusion
The agricultural economy between 750 and 1200 CE was characterized by regional variations, technological refinements, and evolving land revenue systems. While advancements in irrigation and agricultural practices led to increased productivity, the socio-economic structures, particularly the land grant system and the rigid social hierarchy, created inequalities and limited the benefits of agricultural growth to a wider population. This period laid the foundation for the subsequent developments in Indian agriculture, but also sowed the seeds of agrarian tensions that would become more pronounced in later centuries.
Answer Length
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