🏛️ History & Art-CultureUPSC 2016Dynasties of Central India

With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term ‘Araghatta’ refers to:

abonded labour
bland grant made to military officers
cwaterwheel used in the irrigation of land
dwasteland converted to cultivated land
✓ Correct answer: c) waterwheel used in the irrigation of land
ExplanationIn the context of the economic history of medieval India, the term 'Araghatta' refers to a waterwheel, an important piece of technology used for irrigation.The term ‘Araghatta’ derives from the words “ara” which means “spoke” and “ghatta” means “pot”.The waterwheels were used to lift water from wells or rivers to irrigate crops.This technology played a significant role in agricultural productivity, particularly in regions with an agrarian economy by providing a reliable and efficient method of irrigation.Baburnama provides a comprehensive explanation and a picture of the Persian Wheel which was in use in the Punjab province.2 Medieval History UPSC GS Paper-I PYQs 54 4

Practice more History PYQs

Attempt a free 10-question quiz or browse the full History & Art-Culture previous-year-question bank with instant answers and explanations.

🏛️ History PYQs →