With reference to the history of India, consider the following pairs:
- Aurang — In-charge of treasury of the State
- Banian — Indian agent of the East India Company
- Mirasidar — Designated revenue payer to the State
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — 2 and 3 only
This question tests knowledge of specific historical terms used during the colonial and pre-colonial periods in India. Only pairs 2 and 3 are correctly matched, while pair 1 incorrectly describes Aurang.
❌ Pair 1 – Incorrect: Aurang was not in-charge of the treasury; it was a Persian term for a warehouse or workshop where goods were collected and processed before sale.
✅ Pair 2 – Correct: Banian (or Baniya) refers to Indian agents employed by the East India Company who managed business transactions, served as interpreters, brokers, and cash-keepers, often functioning as trading partners rather than mere servants.
✅ Pair 3 – Correct: Mirasidar (from Persian 'miras' meaning inheritance) was a hereditary landowner and co-proprietor who was designated as a revenue payer to the state.
📝 Short Notes: Colonial Administrative and Commercial Terms
| Term | Meaning/Function | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Aurang | Warehouse or workshop for collection and processing of goods before sale | Persian |
| Banian/Baniya | Indian agent of East India Company; interpreter, broker, cash-keeper, business manager | Indian commercial term |
| Mirasidar | Hereditary landowner, co-proprietor, designated revenue payer to the state | Persian (miras = inheritance) |
| Dewan/Diwan | Chief revenue officer or finance minister | Persian/Arabic |
| Gomashta | Agent employed by East India Company to supervise weavers and collect supplies | Bengali/Persian |
Question 2 of 3 English East India Company
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