UPSC Prelims PYQ 1998: Chronological order — urban culture, iron plough, coins

What is the correct chronological order in which the following appeared in India?

1. Gold coins
2. Punch-marked silver coins
3. Iron plough
4. Urban culture

Codes:

1. III, IV, I, II
2. III, IV, II, I
3. IV, III, I, II
4. IV, III, II, I

Explanation

Option (d) is correct

• Urban culture appeared first in India with the rise of the Indus Valley Civilization during the third millennium BCE. Iron technology, including the iron plough, emerged later in the Early Iron Age. Punch-marked silver coins appeared during the Mahajanapada period around the 6th century BCE, while gold coins became prominent much later, especially during the Kushana and Gupta periods.

Answer: (d) IV, III, II, I