Tax, known as bhaga, was levied on which of the following during Mahajanapada period of Ancient India?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The Correct answer is option 2 i.e. Tax on cultivators.
During the Mahajanapada period in ancient India, the tax known as Bhaga was levied on cultivators. This tax was typically set at one-sixth (1/6th) of the agricultural produce, serving as a primary source of revenue for the state. The collection of Bhaga was essential for maintaining administrative functions, building infrastructure, and supporting military activities. In addition to Bhaga, other taxes were imposed on artisans, traders, herders, and forest dwellers, reflecting the agrarian-based economy of the time. These systematic taxation methods indicate the increasing complexity and organization of the Mahajanapada states.
Incorrect Options:
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Tax on artisans – While artisans may have contributed to the economy, they were not the main targets of bhaga. Their goods might have been taxed during trade, but not as bhaga.
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Tax on merchants – Merchants paid trade-related taxes and tolls, but these were separate from bhaga, which was specifically an agricultural tax.
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Tax on cattle breeders – Cattle breeders might have paid other forms of dues, but bhaga was not collected from them; it was tied to land produce, not livestock.