Correct Option
The correct option is 2 only.
Explanation
During the 6th century BCE, significant shifts in agricultural practices occurred in the Ganga valley. These technological advancements led to a surplus in production, which served as the economic foundation for the rise of the Mahajanapadas and the Second Urbanisation.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect.
The iron-tipped ploughshare was heavy and specifically designed to turn over the deep, heavy, and clayey soil found in areas with high rainfall, such as the Ganga valley. It was not primarily used in semi-arid regions like Rajasthan or parts of Punjab during this period; in those areas, hoe agriculture or lighter wooden ploughs remained more prevalent due to the lighter soil texture and lower rainfall. - Statement 2 is Correct.
Transplantation of paddy was introduced in the Ganga valley during this era to maximize yields. Instead of scattering seeds on dry land, saplings were grown in nurseries and then planted in waterlogged fields. This method drastically increased the survival rate of saplings and overall grain production, supporting dense populations and state formation.
Key Takeaway:
The adoption of the iron-tipped ploughshare and paddy transplantation in the fertile, high-rainfall Ganga valley was crucial for generating the agricultural surplus that sustained the Magadhan Empire.