The correct option is (a) 1, 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The early historic period in India (c. 600 BCE – 300 CE) was characterized by the "Second Urbanization," marked by the growth of cities, the expansion of internal and external trade networks, the use of currency, and the organization of craft production into guilds.- Statement 1 is Correct: Coastal towns played a pivotal role in long-distance maritime trade, particularly with the Roman Empire. Arikamedu (near Puducherry) was a significant port city and manufacturing centre during the early historic period. Archaeological excavations have yielded Roman amphorae, glassware, and gold coins, confirming its status as a major node in the Indo-Roman trade network.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Inland cities developed as strategic nodes connecting major trade routes. Mathura was geographically significant as it was located at the intersection of two major trade routes: the Uttarapatha (Northern Route) leading to Taxila and Central Asia, and the route connecting the north to the Dakshinapatha (Southern Route). It served as a vital centre for commerce, travel, and cultural exchange.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Craft production and trade were highly organized during this period. Associations known as Shrenis (guilds) regulated the quality of production, controlled prices, and even functioned as banks where people could deposit money. These guilds were influential in both North India and the Deccan/South India.
- Statement 4 is Incorrect: The early historic period saw the widespread use of metallic currency. Punch-marked coins (silver and copper) were in circulation from around the 6th century BCE. By the early centuries CE, dynasties like the Kushanas, Satavahanas, and various Sangam chieftains issued their own coins. While barter continued in rural areas, it was certainly not the only mode of exchange; the economy was increasingly monetized.
Key Takeaway: The economy of early historic India was defined by a vibrant trade network connecting inland nodes (like Mathura) to coastal ports (like Arikamedu), supported by organized guilds (Shrenis) and a well-established metallic currency system.