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Question 21

With reference to the history of India, consider the following pairs:
1. Aurang : In-charge of treasury of the State
2. Banian : Indian agent of the East India Company
3. Mirasidar : Designated revenue payer to the State
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

AOptions

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 2 and 3 only

C) 3 only

D) 1, 2 and 3

BSolution

Let's analyze each pair of historical terms:

1. Aurang : In-charge of treasury of the State - This pair is incorrectly matched. The term 'Aurang' (or 'Owrang') in historical contexts, particularly during the Mughal and post-Mughal periods, referred to a commercial depot, a factory, or a warehouse where goods were manufactured or collected, especially textiles. It was a place of production or storage, not an official in charge of the treasury. The treasury official was typically known as 'Diwan' or 'Mushrif'.

2. Banian : Indian agent of the East India Company - This pair is correctly matched. 'Banian' (derived from Bania, a merchant caste) was a term used by the British to refer to an Indian trader, merchant, or broker. These individuals acted as intermediaries or agents for the European trading companies, including the East India Company, helping them in procuring goods, managing local finances, and facilitating trade with Indian merchants and artisans.

3. Mirasidar : Designated revenue payer to the State - This pair is correctly matched. In South India, especially during the British colonial period, a 'Mirasidar' was a hereditary landholder or proprietor who held a 'miras' (hereditary right) over land. They were typically responsible for paying land revenue to the state and held significant social and economic standing in their villages.

Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correctly matched.

CStrategy

For questions on historical terms, it's crucial to understand the specific context (e.g., Mughal, British, regional) and their precise meaning. Many terms might sound similar to modern words but have distinct historical connotations. Focus on the core function or identity associated with the term.

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under the Medieval and Modern Indian History sections, specifically focusing on administrative and economic terminology from different historical periods.

EQuestion Analysis

Medium. While 'Banian' and 'Mirasidar' are relatively common terms, 'Aurang' can be confusing if one doesn't know its specific meaning in the context of trade and manufacturing depots.