With reference to the history of India, the terms “kulyavapa” and “dronavapa” denote
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Correct Answer: Option A
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 1 — measurement of land
The terms kulyavapa and dronavapa were units of land measurement used in ancient India, particularly during the Gupta period. These measurements were based on the quantity of seed required to sow a specific area of land—'vapa' means 'to sow', while 'kulya' and 'drona' were volumetric measures of grain.
📝 Short Notes: Ancient Indian Land Measurement Systems
| Term | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Kulyavapa | Area of land requiring one kulya (larger measure) of grain to sow | Commonly found in Gupta-era copper-plate inscriptions (Damodarpur plates, etc.) recording land grants and transactions |
| Dronavapa | Area of land requiring one drona (smaller measure) of grain to sow | |
| Adhavapa | Area requiring one adha of grain to sow | |
| Pataka | Another unit of land measurement |
- Vapa literally means 'to sow', indicating these were seed-based measurements
- These units reflect an agricultural economy where land value was tied to productivity
- The Gupta period (c. 320-550 CE) saw systematic land revenue administration using these measures
- Land grants to Brahmanas and temples were often recorded using these units
- This system differed from modern area-based measurements, instead using functional agricultural capacity
Question 1 of 2 Gupta Administration
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