Pakistan Studies/Affairs MCQs
Topic Notes: Pakistan Studies/Affairs
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
21
The Barabar Caves, built during the Mauryan period, were originally dedicated to which sect?
Answer:
Ajivikas
The Barabar Caves in Bihar were constructed by Ashoka and his successor Dasaratha and were dedicated to the ascetics of the Ajivika sect.
22
Which minor rock edict mentions the name 'Ashoka' explicitly?
Answer:
Maski
The Maski Minor Rock Edict (and later Gujjara) is significant because it explicitly mentions the name 'Ashoka', whereas others use titles like 'Devanampiya Piyadassi'.
23
Who was the 'Sitadhyaksha' in Mauryan administration?
Answer:
Superintendent of Agriculture
The 'Sitadhyaksha' was the Superintendent of Agriculture, responsible for crown lands and agricultural production.
24
Which of the following was the currency in circulation during the Mauryan period?
Answer:
Pana
The 'Pana', a silver punch-marked coin, was the standard unit of currency used during the Mauryan period.
25
Which inscription mentions Chandragupta Maurya's governor constructing the Sudarshana Lake?
Answer:
Junagadh Rock Inscription of Rudradaman
The Junagadh Rock Inscription of Rudradaman mentions that the Sudarshana Lake was constructed by Pushyagupta, a governor under Chandragupta Maurya.
26
The 'Saptanga Theory' of the state was propounded by whom?
Answer:
Kautilya
Kautilya (Chanakya) propounded the Saptanga Theory in the Arthashastra, which lists seven limbs (angas) of the state: King, Territory, Fort, Treasury, Army, Ally, and Minister.
27
Which Mauryan pillar edict is known for not having any animal capital?
Answer:
None of the above
All major Mauryan pillars discovered so far are surmounted by animal capitals (Lion, Bull, Elephant). There is no famous pillar edict known specifically for lacking a capital, though some may be damaged.
28
According to Megasthenes, the administration of Pataliputra was conducted by how many committees?
Answer:
Six
Megasthenes noted that the city administration of Pataliputra was run by six committees (boards), each consisting of five members.
29
What term was used for the high-ranking officials in the Mauryan administration?
Answer:
Tirthas
The highest category of officials in the Mauryan administration were known as 'Tirthas'. Arthashastra mentions 18 such Tirthas.
30
Which ancient Indian drama describes the schemes of Chanakya against the Nandas?
Answer:
Mudrarakshasa
'Mudrarakshasa', written by Visakhadatta, is a historical play that narrates the ascent of Chandragupta Maurya and the political strategies of Chanakya.