Question 24 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Medieval
History

Question

Banjaras during the medieval period of Indian history were generally

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. traders

Strategy: This is a direct factual recall question. The key is to remember the historical role and primary occupation of the Banjaras during the medieval period in India. Their well-documented function as nomadic carriers of goods, especially grain, directly points to them being 'traders'.

Key Info: The Banjaras were a prominent nomadic community in India during the medieval period, primarily known for their role as **trader-nomads** or **carrier nomads**. Their principal occupation involved transporting bulk goods, such as food grains, salt, and other commodities, across long distances using large herds of bullocks.

*   **Key Role:** They were essential in connecting production areas with urban markets, playing a vital role in the internal trade networks of various kingdoms, including the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire.
*   **Caravans (Tanda):** They typically traveled in large groups or caravans, known as 'tanda', which could consist of thousands of bullocks.
*   **Historical References:**
    *   **Sultan Alauddin Khalji (Delhi Sultanate):** Utilized the Banjaras extensively to transport grain from the countryside to the city markets, a measure aimed at controlling prices and ensuring supplies in Delhi.
    *   **Emperor Jahangir (Mughal Empire):** Recorded in his memoirs, 'Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri', that the Banjaras transported grain on their bullocks from different areas and sold it in towns.
*   While primarily traders, they also sometimes supplied provisions to armies during their campaigns. Their nomadic lifestyle and specialized trade activities made them distinct from settled agriculturists, warriors, or weavers.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: agriculturists

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: warriors

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: weavers