With reference to Indian history, which of the following is/are the essential element/elements of the feudal system? 1. A very strong centralized political authority and a very weak provincial or local political authority 2. Emergence of administrative structure based on control and possession of land 3. Creation of lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord Select the correct answer using the code given below.

The feudal system, both in India and globally, is characterized by specific socio-economic and political arrangements:

Statement 1: A very strong centralized political authority and a very weak provincial or local political authority. This is incorrect. Feudalism is typically characterized by a decentralized political authority, where the power of the central ruler is weak, and significant power rests with powerful local lords (feudatories or samantas) who control their territories. Statement 2: Emergence of administrative structure based on control and possession of land. This is correct. Land was the primary source of wealth and power in a feudal system. Kings granted land to their vassals (feudal lords) in exchange for military service and loyalty. These lords, in turn, controlled the land and administered justice within their domains. Statement 3: Creation of lord-vassal relationship between the feudal lord and his overlord. This is correct. A hierarchical structure, where a lesser lord (vassal) owed loyalty and service (often military) to a greater lord (overlord or king) in exchange for land or protection, is a defining characteristic of feudalism. This relationship was based on mutual obligations. Therefore, statements 2 and 3 correctly describe essential elements of the feudal system in Indian history.