Correct Option
The correct option is (d).
Explanation
The Early Vedic (Rigvedic) economy was primarily pastoral and semi-nomadic in nature. While agriculture was practiced, it played a secondary role compared to cattle rearing. Wealth was largely estimated in terms of cattle, which influenced social structure and the nature of warfare.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Rigvedic people possessed knowledge of agriculture. The text makes specific references to Yava (barley), which was the principal crop cultivated during this period. Ploughing, sowing, harvesting, and threshing were known activities.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Cattle rearing was the dominant economic activity. The cow (Gau) was the most important form of wealth and a medium of exchange. Consequently, cattle were often the cause of inter-tribal wars. The term for war in the Rigveda is Gavisthi, which literally translates to "search for cows."
- Statement 3 is Correct: Natural resources were critical for a pastoral society. Alongside cattle, access to water was a major source of contention. The Rigveda mentions conflicts and battles fought specifically over the control of water sources and river waters.
Key Takeaway: The Rigvedic economy was pastoral-agrarian with a heavy reliance on cattle (Gau) as the primary measure of wealth; conflicts (Gavisthi) were frequently triggered by the need to acquire cattle and control water resources.