Practice Mauryan Empire MCQ quiz for UPSC Prelims. Attempt Ancient History questions with answers and explanations. Best for revision and mock tests.
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Mauryan Empire MCQ Quiz | UPSC Ancient History Test
Description
Practice Mauryan Empire MCQ quiz for UPSC Prelims. Attempt Ancient History questions with answers and explanations. Best for revision and mock tests.
Difficulty
Hard
Num Questions
100
Points Per Question
1
Time Limit
100 minutes
All MCQ Questions with Answers and Explanations
Question 1: Consider the pairs (Ashokan inscriptions – Location): (1) Sarnath – Minor Pillar Edict, (2) Prayag (Allahabad) – Major Pillar Edict, (3) Girnar – Minor Pillar Edict, (4) Dhauli – Separate Kalinga Edict. Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
Correct Answer:
B
— Only 1, 2 and 4
Explanation:
Sarnath has a Minor Pillar Edict, and the Allahabad (Prayag) pillar contains a Major Pillar Edict. Girnar is associated with Major Rock Edicts, not pillar edicts. Dhauli contains the Separate Kalinga Edicts. Hence, pairs (1), (2), and (4) are correct.
Question 2: With reference to ‘Indica’, consider the statements: (1) Megasthenes described Indians as generally truthful and honest. (2) All details in ‘Indica’ are considered completely factual and error-free. Which of the above statements is/are correct?
Correct Answer:
A
— Only 1
Explanation:
Megasthenes praised several qualities of Indian society, including honesty. However, Indica is not considered entirely accurate and contains exaggerations.
Question 3: Which of the following statements is correct?
Correct Answer:
D
— Correlation of different sources is necessary
Explanation:
Historical conclusions require comparative analysis of multiple sources.
Question 4: After the decline of the Mauryas, which became the dominant power in North India?
Correct Answer:
C
— Shunga
Explanation:
Pushyamitra Shunga established the Shunga dynasty after the Mauryas.
Question 5: Assertion (A): Greek sources describe Indian society as divided into different classes. Reason (R): This is an accurate representation of the Varna system.
Correct Answer:
C
— A is correct, R is incorrect
Explanation:
Greek sources describe Indian society in terms of social divisions, but this does not accurately represent the Varna system. Hence, A is correct while R is incorrect.
Question 6: In which source is exaggeration most likely?
Correct Answer:
B
— Puranas
Explanation:
Puranas may contain religious/mythological exaggerations.
Question 7: What is the difference between Mauryan and Satavahana administration?
Correct Answer:
B
— Mauryan centralized, Satavahana decentralized
Explanation:
Satavahana administration was more local; Mauryan was centralized.
Question 8: Which of the following is not a Mauryan source?
Correct Answer:
C
— Mahabharata
Explanation:
Mahabharata is an ancient epic, not a Mauryan source.
Question 9: Assertion (A): Economic decline occurred after the fall of the Mauryan Empire. Reason (R): The centralized tax system ended.
Correct Answer:
A
— Both are correct and R is the explanation
Explanation:
Collapse of centralized taxation led to economic decline.
Question 10: Consider the statements: (1) Puranas provide chronology (2) Buddhist texts have a religious perspective (3) Greek sources give an external view. Which are correct?
Correct Answer:
D
— 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All sources provide information from their respective perspectives.
Question 11: What is the main difference between ‘Arthashastra’ and ‘Indica’?
Correct Answer:
B
— One is theoretical, the other descriptive
Explanation:
Arthashastra is theoretical, while Indica is descriptive.
Question 12: What is the main difference between Mauryan and Gupta administration?
Correct Answer:
B
— Mauryan was more centralized
Explanation:
Mauryan administration was highly centralized; Gupta was relatively decentralized.
Question 13: Which of the following is considered the most reliable source?
Correct Answer:
D
— Inscriptions
Explanation:
Inscriptions are contemporary and more authentic.
Question 14: Assertion (A): After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, regional states emerged. Reason (R): Central authority weakened.
Correct Answer:
A
— Both are correct and R is the explanation
Explanation:
Weakening of central authority led to the rise of regional powers.
Question 15: Whom did Pushyamitra Shunga depose?
Correct Answer:
C
— Brihadratha
Explanation:
The last Mauryan ruler Brihadratha was overthrown.
Question 16: Which of the following was not a post-Mauryan successor state?
Correct Answer:
D
— Gupta
Explanation:
The Gupta period came later; others were post-Mauryan states.
Question 17: What was the main reason for the disintegration of the Mauryan Empire after Ashoka?
Correct Answer:
B
— Administrative decentralization
Explanation:
Central control weakened and provincial governors gained power after Ashoka.
Question 18: Which of the following was not a major cause of the decline of the Mauryas?
Correct Answer:
D
— Foreign invasions
Explanation:
Internal factors were more significant; foreign invasions were not the main cause.
Question 19: Assertion (A): Greek sources provide information about Mauryan administration. Reason (R): Megasthenes wrote based on direct observation.
Correct Answer:
A
— Both are correct and R is the explanation
Explanation:
Megasthenes’ firsthand account provides insights into administration.
Question 20: The Jain text ‘Parishishtaparvan’ is related to whom?
Correct Answer:
C
— Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation:
It describes Chandragupta Maurya’s association with Jainism.
Question 21: ‘Dipavamsa’ and ‘Mahavamsa’ are related to which of the following?
Correct Answer:
C
— Buddhist texts
Explanation:
These are Sri Lankan Buddhist chronicles mentioning Ashoka.
Question 22: Which of the following sources is important for the genealogy of the Mauryan period?
Correct Answer:
A
— Puranas
Explanation:
The Puranas provide genealogical details of the Mauryan dynasty.
Question 23: Which of the following was not a Mauryan tax?
Correct Answer:
D
— Jizya
Explanation:
Jizya was imposed during the medieval Islamic period, not during the Mauryan period.
Question 24: What was the function of ‘Nagaradhyaksha’?
Correct Answer:
B
— City administration
Explanation:
The Nagaradhyaksha was the chief officer of city administration.
Question 25: Assertion (A): Mauryan sculpture shows elements of realism. Reason (R): The polishing technique was highly advanced during the Mauryan period.
Correct Answer:
B
— Both are correct but R is not the explanation
Explanation:
Mauryan art exhibits both realism and advanced polishing techniques, especially in Ashokan pillars. However, polishing enhances surface finish and is not the direct cause of realism.
Question 26: Mauryan caves were mainly used for what purpose?
Correct Answer:
C
— Religious meditation
Explanation:
Caves were primarily used by monks for residence and meditation.
Question 27: Consider the pairs: (1) Pillars – Stone (2) Stupa – Brick/Stone (3) Caves – Rock-cut. Which are correct?
Correct Answer:
D
— 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three construction styles are features of Mauryan architecture.
Question 28: Which of the following is a Mauryan-period stupa?
Correct Answer:
A
— Sanchi
Explanation:
Sanchi Stupa belongs to the Mauryan period; others belong to later periods.
Question 29: What was a key feature of Ashokan pillars?
Correct Answer:
C
— Monolithic
Explanation:
The pillars were monolithic; other options are incorrect.
Question 30: ‘Mauryan polish’ is related to which of the following?
Correct Answer:
B
— Sculpture
Explanation:
Mauryan polish refers to the glossy surface of stone sculptures/pillars.
Question 31: Assertion (A): The state exercised control and dominance over land during the Mauryan period. Reason (R): Taxes were collected from peasants.
Correct Answer:
B
— Both are correct but R is not the explanation
Explanation:
The Mauryan state exercised control over agricultural land, but the exact nature of ownership is not clearly defined. Taxes were collected from peasants, but this alone does not establish complete state ownership of land.
Question 32: Consider the pairs: (1) Infantry – Padati (2) Cavalry – Ashva (3) Elephants – Gaja. Which are correct?
Correct Answer:
D
— 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three pairs are correct; these are components of the army.
Question 33: With reference to the organization of the Mauryan army, which statement is correct?
Correct Answer:
B
— Four divisions – infantry, cavalry, chariots, elephants
Explanation:
The Mauryan army was Chaturangini, consisting of four divisions.
Question 34: Which of the following was not a major function of the committees of Pataliputra administration?
Correct Answer:
D
— Conduct of religious rituals
Explanation:
The committees of Pataliputra were responsible for civic and administrative functions such as regulation of industries, supervision of trade, and registration of births and deaths. Religious rituals were not part of their functions.
Question 35: According to Megasthenes, how many committees were mentioned in the administration of Pataliputra?
Correct Answer:
C
— 6
Explanation:
According to Megasthenes, the city administration of Pataliputra was divided into 6 committees, each consisting of 5 members.
Question 36: Assertion (A): Spies were used for administrative control during the Mauryan period. Reason (R): The Arthashastra contains a detailed description of the espionage system.
Correct Answer:
A
— Both are correct and R is the explanation
Explanation:
The espionage system described in the Arthashastra was meant for administrative control.
Question 37: With reference to the Mauryan espionage system, which statement is correct?
Correct Answer:
B
— Two types of spies – stationary and roaming
Explanation:
The espionage system included stationary (Samstha) and roaming (Sanchara) spies.
Question 38: Consider the pairs: (1) Sitadhyaksha – Agriculture (2) Lohadhyaksha – Metals (3) Panyadhyaksha – Trade. Which pairs are correct?
Correct Answer:
D
— 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three Adhyakshas were heads of their respective departments; all pairs are correct.
Question 39: Which of the following statements regarding ‘Adhyaksha’ is correct?
Correct Answer:
B
— They were departmental heads
Explanation:
Adhyakshas were heads of various departments; other functions were not their primary duties.
Question 40: Assertion (A): International trade was developed during the Mauryan period. Reason (R): Relations were established with the Hellenistic world.
Correct Answer:
B
— Both are correct but R is not the explanation
Explanation:
International trade was indeed developed during the Mauryan period, and relations with the Hellenistic world contributed to it. However, such relations were only one of several factors promoting trade, and hence do not fully explain the development of international trade.
Question 41: What was opposed in Ashoka’s Dhamma?
Correct Answer:
C
— Cruelty
Explanation:
Dhamma opposed cruelty and promoted compassion.
Question 42: In the Mauryan period, ‘trade routes’ were connected to:
Correct Answer:
C
— Both land and sea
Explanation:
Trade routes included both land and maritime routes.
Question 43: Who was the head of the ‘military organization’ in the Mauryan period?
Correct Answer:
C
— Senapati
Explanation:
The Senapati was the head of the army; others were administrative positions.
Question 44: What is meant by ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhava’ in Ashoka’s Dhamma?
Correct Answer:
B
— Respect for all religions
Explanation:
Dhamma emphasized respect for all religions.
Question 45: Assertion (A): Ashoka’s inscriptions are in the same language across India. Reason (R): He used only Sanskrit.
Correct Answer:
B
— Both incorrect
Explanation:
The inscriptions are in different languages and scripts, mainly using Prakrit.
Question 46: In which country did Ashoka NOT propagate Buddhism?
Correct Answer:
D
— China
Explanation:
There is no reliable evidence of direct propagation of Buddhism by Ashoka in China, whereas missions to Sri Lanka and Hellenistic regions (including parts of Greece and Egypt) are mentioned in sources.
Question 47: What was the status of ‘slaves’ in Mauryan society?
Correct Answer:
B
— As property
Explanation:
Slaves were treated as property; other options are incorrect.
Question 48: Assertion (A): In the Mauryan period, the state controlled trade. Reason (R): The Arthashastra prescribes a policy of state control.
Correct Answer:
A
— Both are correct and R is the explanation
Explanation:
The Arthashastra supports the policy of state control, which clarifies the role of the state in the Mauryan economy.
Question 49: With which Greek ruler did Chandragupta Maurya have a conflict?
Correct Answer:
B
— Seleucus Nicator
Explanation:
Chandragupta defeated Seleucus Nicator; other rulers were not associated with this conflict.
Question 50: Which of the following was NOT included in Ashoka’s Dhamma?
Correct Answer:
C
— Support for animal sacrifice
Explanation:
Ashoka opposed animal sacrifice; all other options were part of Dhamma.
Question 51: In which inscription is a detailed account of the results of the Kalinga War found?
Correct Answer:
B
— Thirteenth Inscription
Explanation:
The Thirteenth Major Rock Edict of Ashoka provides a detailed description of the consequences of the Kalinga War, including massive casualties, Ashoka’s remorse, and his shift to the policy of Dhamma.
Question 52: Assertion (A): After the Kalinga War, Ashoka abandoned the policy of expansion. Reason (R): He gave priority to ‘Dhamma Vijay’.
Correct Answer:
A
— Both are correct and R is the correct explanation
Explanation:
After the Kalinga War, Ashoka largely abandoned military expansion and adopted ‘Dhamma Vijay’ (conquest through righteousness) as his guiding principle.
Question 53: What was the main basis of Ashoka’s Dhamma?
Correct Answer:
C
— Moral conduct
Explanation:
Dhamma was based on morality and righteous conduct; other options do not match.
Question 54: Assertion (A): Bindusara expanded the empire up to South India. Reason (R): He conquered the Chola and Pandya states.
Correct Answer:
C
— A is correct, R is incorrect
Explanation:
Bindusara is believed to have extended Mauryan influence into the Deccan region, but the Chola and Pandya kingdoms remained independent; hence R is incorrect.
Question 55: What was included under ‘Dhamma’?
Correct Answer:
B
— Non-violence
Explanation:
Dhamma included non-violence and morality, not sacrifices/war/taxation.
Question 56: Assertion (A): Ashoka respected all religions. Reason (R): He promoted only Buddhism.
Correct Answer:
C
— A is correct, R is incorrect
Explanation:
Ashoka practiced tolerance and was not limited only to Buddhism.
Question 57: Which subject is discussed in detail in the ‘Arthashastra’?
Correct Answer:
B
— Diplomacy
Explanation:
The Arthashastra provides a comprehensive account of statecraft, diplomacy, economy, and administration.
Question 58: According to Megasthenes, how many committees were there in ‘city administration’?
Correct Answer:
C
— 6
Explanation:
The city administration was divided into 6 committees; other numbers are incorrect.
Question 59: According to Jain tradition, which statement is correct regarding the final phase of Chandragupta Maurya’s life?
Correct Answer:
C
— He accepted Jain asceticism at Shravanabelagola (Karnataka)
Explanation:
According to Jain tradition, Chandragupta Maurya, in the last phase of his life, accepted asceticism (Sallekhana) at Shravanabelagola (Karnataka) along with Jain Acharya Bhadrabahu.
Question 60: Assertion (A): Ashoka adopted Buddhism after the Kalinga War. Reason (R): There was massive loss of life in the Kalinga War.
Correct Answer:
A
— Both are correct and R is the correct explanation of A
Explanation:
The horrors of the war motivated Ashoka to adopt Buddhism; both statements are related.
Question 61: Which of the following is an example of a Minor Pillar Edict?
Correct Answer:
B
— Sarnath Pillar Edict
Explanation:
The Sarnath Pillar Edict is counted among the Minor Pillar Edicts, which mainly contain instructions related to the Sangha (Buddhist order).
Question 62: What was the function of the ‘Sitadhyaksha’ during the Mauryan period?
Correct Answer:
B
— Supervision of agriculture
Explanation:
The Sitadhyaksha was responsible for agriculture and supervision of fields.
Question 63: The ‘Rummindei’ inscription is related to which of the following?
Correct Answer:
A
— Birthplace of Buddha
Explanation:
This inscription is related to Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha.
Question 64: ‘Punch-marked coins’ were first introduced in which period?
Correct Answer:
D
— Pre-Mauryan
Explanation:
Punch-marked coins originated in the pre-Mauryan period, although they became widely prevalent during the Mauryan period.
Question 65: What was the outcome of the treaty between Chandragupta and Seleucus?
Correct Answer:
B
— Matrimonial alliance and territorial agreement
Explanation:
The treaty involved territorial transfer and a matrimonial alliance; others are incorrect.
Question 66: The ‘Dhauli’ and ‘Jaugada’ inscriptions are related to which of the following?
Correct Answer:
B
— Administration of Kalinga
Explanation:
These special edicts were issued for the administration of the Kalinga region.
Question 67: Which of the following is a Minor Rock Edict of Ashoka?
Correct Answer:
B
— Maski Inscription
Explanation:
Maski is a Minor Rock Edict where the name ‘Ashoka’ is found; others are major edicts.
Question 68: Ashoka’s Pillar Edicts mainly deal with which of the following?
Correct Answer:
B
— Administrative and moral instructions
Explanation:
The Pillar Edicts contain moral and administrative instructions; other topics are not primary.
Question 69: What was the function of the ‘Senapati’ during the Mauryan period?
Correct Answer:
B
— Leading the army
Explanation:
The Senapati was the head of the army; other functions were performed by different positions.
Question 70: According to ‘Indica,’ what was a characteristic of Indians?
Correct Answer:
C
— Honest
Explanation:
In Indica, Indians are generally described as truthful and honest.
Question 71: What was the function of ‘Mahamatras’?
Correct Answer:
B
— Administrative functions
Explanation:
Mahamatras were high administrative officials appointed for various functions such as propagation of Dhamma, justice, and provincial administration. They were of different types for specific duties (e.g., Dhamma Mahamatras).
Question 72: What was ‘Taxila’ during the Mauryan period?
Correct Answer:
C
— Provincial headquarters
Explanation:
Taxila was a provincial administrative center, while the capital was Pataliputra.
Question 73: The ‘Saptanga Theory’ is related to which of the following?
Correct Answer:
B
— Arthashastra
Explanation:
The Saptanga Theory describes the seven elements of the state, as found in the Arthashastra.
Question 74: In Ashoka’s inscriptions, who is referred to as ‘Priyadarshi’?
Correct Answer:
C
— Ashoka
Explanation:
Ashoka referred to himself as ‘Devanampiya Priyadarshi’; it does not relate to other individuals.
Question 75: Who governed the provinces during the Mauryan period?
Correct Answer:
B
— Yuvaraja
Explanation:
Provinces were generally governed by the Yuvaraja or princes; others were local/special officials.
Question 76: Who were ‘Amatyas’ in Mauryan administration?
Correct Answer:
B
— Ministers/officials
Explanation:
Amatyas were high-ranking officials/ministers; other roles are different.
Question 77: What was the function of ‘Dhamma Mahamatras’?
Correct Answer:
C
— Propagation of religious policy
Explanation:
Dhamma Mahamatras were appointed to propagate Ashoka’s policy of Dhamma; other functions were performed by different officials.
Question 78: In which script were Ashoka’s inscriptions written?
Correct Answer:
B
— Brahmi
Explanation:
Most inscriptions are in the Brahmi script; however, in the north-western regions, the Kharosthi script was also used.
Question 79: According to Megasthenes, into how many classes was Indian society divided?
Correct Answer:
D
— 7
Explanation:
Megasthenes described society as divided into 7 classes; other numbers are incorrect.
Question 80: By what name was Bindusara known in Greek sources?
Correct Answer:
B
— Amitrochates
Explanation:
In Greek sources, Bindusara is referred to as “Amitrochates/Amitraghata,” meaning “slayer of enemies.” This name is considered to be derived from the Sanskrit “Amitraghata.”
Question 81: Where is the ‘Lion Capital’ (Simha Stambha Top) located?
Correct Answer:
B
— Sarnath
Explanation:
The Lion Capital at Sarnath is a famous example of Mauryan art.
Question 82: Which of the following taxes was levied on trade?
Correct Answer:
C
— Shulka
Explanation:
‘Shulka’ was the tax imposed on trade; others were different types of taxes.
Question 83: In the Mauryan period, what was the ‘Bhaga’ tax related to?
Correct Answer:
B
— Share of agricultural produce
Explanation:
‘Bhaga’ referred to the share of agricultural produce; other taxes were different.
Question 84: The term ‘Yavana’ was used for whom?
Correct Answer:
B
— Greeks
Explanation:
The term ‘Yavana’ was used for the Greeks.
Question 85: What did Ashoka promote under ‘Dhamma’?
Correct Answer:
C
— Tolerance
Explanation:
Dhamma promoted tolerance and good conduct.
Question 86: What is mainly emphasized in Ashoka’s Pillar Edicts?
Correct Answer:
B
— Morality, role of Dhamma Mahamatras, and religious tolerance
Explanation:
Ashoka’s Pillar Edicts emphasize practical aspects of Dhamma such as moral conduct, public welfare, religious tolerance, and the role of Dhamma Mahamatras, reflecting the humane aspect of administration.
Question 87: What was the main basis of the economy during the Mauryan period?
Correct Answer:
C
— Agriculture
Explanation:
Agriculture was the foundation of the economy; other sectors were supplementary.
Question 88: According to Ashoka, what did ‘Dhamma Vijaya’ mean?
Correct Answer:
C
— Moral conquest
Explanation:
Dhamma Vijaya means victory through moral values, not through war.
Question 89: Which of the following is a feature of Ashoka’s Major Rock Edicts?
Correct Answer:
C
— Combination of Dhamma policy with administrative instructions
Explanation:
Ashoka’s Major Rock Edicts combine Dhamma policy (morality, tolerance, non-violence) with administrative instructions.
Question 90: According to the Arthashastra, who is the head of the state?
Correct Answer:
B
— King
Explanation:
The king is the central authority of the state; others are supporting elements.
Question 91: When did the ‘Kalinga War’ take place?
Correct Answer:
A
— 261 BCE
Explanation:
The Kalinga War took place in 261 BCE; other dates relate to different events.
Question 92: What was the function of the ‘Gramika’?
Correct Answer:
B
— Village administration
Explanation:
The Gramika was the head of the village; other duties belonged to different officials.
Question 93: What was the main objective of Ashoka’s ‘Dhamma’?
Correct Answer:
C
— Promotion of moral life
Explanation:
Dhamma was based on morality and tolerance; other objectives were not primary.
Question 94: What was the function of the ‘Samaharta’?
Correct Answer:
C
— Revenue collection
Explanation:
The Samaharta was the chief officer responsible for revenue collection; other functions belonged to different officials.
Question 95: What was the capital of the Mauryan Empire?
Correct Answer:
C
— Pataliputra
Explanation:
Pataliputra was the Mauryan capital; other cities were provincial centers.
Question 96: What was the real name of Kautilya?
Correct Answer:
A
— Vishnugupta
Explanation:
Kautilya’s real name is considered to be Vishnugupta. ‘Chanakya’ is his popular name, while ‘Kautilya’ is believed to be derived from his gotra (Kutila). Other options are names of different scholars.
Question 97: What is the meaning of ‘Devanampiya Piyadasi’ in Ashoka’s inscriptions?
Correct Answer:
B
— Beloved of the gods
Explanation:
‘Devanampiya’ means Beloved of the gods; other options do not match the meaning.
Question 98: What is primarily described in the Arthashastra?
Correct Answer:
C
— State administration and economy
Explanation:
Arthashastra deals with state administration, economy, and diplomacy; other subjects are not its main focus.
Question 99: Who wrote the book ‘Indica’?
Correct Answer:
B
— Megasthenes
Explanation:
Megasthenes described Mauryan India in ‘Indica’; the other travelers belong to later periods.
Question 100: Who is considered to have played a significant role in the rise of Chandragupta Maurya?
Correct Answer:
A
— Kautilya
Explanation:
Kautilya trained Chandragupta and helped him defeat the Nandas; the other options are either associates or later figures.