UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 6
Consider the following statements relating to the use of the place-value system in India:
- The earliest epigraphic use of the place-value system in India is found in the Mankani plates from Gujarat (AD 595 – 596).
- In the ninth century, place-values become general in inscriptions all over India.
- The place-values have been found in Sanskrit inscriptions in South-east Asia as early as the seventh century.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D
Explanation: Place-value numeration spread across Indian epigraphy and influenced inscriptions in South-East Asia; the question tests early documented uses.
Statement-wise Analysis:
Statement 1: Correct - The Mankani plates are cited as an early dated Indian epigraphic use of place values (595–596 CE).
Statement 2: Correct - Place-value dating became widespread in Indian inscriptions by the ninth century.
Statement 3: Correct - Early medieval Sanskrit inscriptions in South-East Asia attest place-value notation from the seventh century.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - Omits supported item(s) 3.
B: Incorrect - Omits supported item(s) 2.
C: Incorrect - Omits supported item(s) 1.
D: Correct - This option includes the supported item(s) and excludes the unsupported ones.
Review note: Specialist epigraphic chronology should be checked against an authoritative publication before treating “earliest” as settled.