QUESTION-WISE · PRELIMS 2011 · Q1111

Ancient History · Prelims 2011 Q1111

India maintained its early cultural contacts and trade links with Southeast Asia across the Bay of Bengal. For this preeminence of early maritime history of the Bay of Bengal, whi…

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Deccan & South (750–1200 CE) Trade & Maritime Networks Answer D

The question

Stem and options.

India maintained its early cultural contacts and trade links with Southeast Asia across the Bay of Bengal. For this preeminence of early maritime history of the Bay of Bengal, which of the following could be the most convincing explanation/explanations?

As compared to other countries, India had a better ship-building technology in ancient and medieval times.

The rulers of southern India always patronized traders, Brahmin priests and Buddhist monks in this context.

Monsoon winds across the bay of Bengal facilitated sea voyages.

Both a and b are convincing explanations in this context.

Source: UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2011. Syllabus tags and explanation are GyanGram editorial joins for learning—not official UPSC metadata.

Answer

Correct option D

• Correct Answer: C
• Monsoon winds provided predictable, seasonal reversals enabling safe long-distance voyages.
• Ship-building technology and royal patronage were secondary enablers, not the primary factor.
• Option D is incorrect as monsoon winds were the most convincing explanation.

Syllabus path

Where this sits in Learn.

Subject

Ancient History

ANC

Unit

Deccan & South (750–1200 CE)

ANC-U16

Chapter

Trade & Maritime Networks

ANC-U16-C06

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