By the 6th–4th centuries B.C., northern India was politically fragmented into many mahajanapadas. This period witnessed the growth of powerful states, external invasions, and the rise of the Nanda dynasty, which set the stage for the Mauryan Empire. The Persian and Greek invasions influenced India in politics, economy, and culture. The Nanda Dynasty The Nandas …
By the 6th century B.C., social discontent grew due to the rigid varna system, costly Vedic sacrifices, and dominance of priests. The rise of new towns, merchants, and artisans created a demand for a simpler, ethical religion. Against this background, Buddhism emerged under the leadership of Siddhartha Gautama (the Buddha). It emphasized morality, meditation, non-violence, …
By the 6th century B.C., the ritualistic practices of the Later Vedic religion, growing dominance of the Brahmins, and the rigid varna system created dissatisfaction among people. Expensive sacrifices alienated the masses, while traders and artisans desired a simpler and more practical faith. Against this background, Jainism emerged as a reformist religion under the leadership …
By the 6th century B.C., northern India was divided into many states, both monarchies and republics. These states are collectively known as the Mahajanapadas. Gradually, political power concentrated into four major kingdoms — Kosala, Vatsa, Avanti, and Magadha. Of these, Magadha rose to supremacy due to its fertile land, rich resources, and strategic location. This …
Condition of India in the 6th Century B.C. – Magadhan Empire and Other Kingdoms Read More »
The decline of the Harappan cities around 1500 B.C. was followed by the arrival of the Indo-Aryans into north-western India. They initially settled in Punjab and later moved into the Indo-Gangetic plains. Their culture, preserved in the Vedic texts, marks the beginning of a new era in Indian history. This period is divided into two …
The history of human settlements in India goes back to prehistoric times, when no written records existed. Knowledge about this period comes from archaeological evidence such as stone tools, pottery, artifacts, and metal implements. Based on tools and lifestyle, Indian prehistory is divided into the Paleolithic (Old Stone Age), Mesolithic (Middle Stone Age), Neolithic (New …
History is shaped by both time (chronology) and space (geography). India’s geographical setting influenced its politics, society, economy, culture, invasions, and trade. The Indian subcontinent includes India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, with India being the largest. Geography explains why India developed as a land of Unity in Diversity. The Himalayan Mountains Stretch nearly 2560 …
Geographical Features and Their Impact on History of India Read More »
National Affairs The GoM on GST rate rationalisation adopted the Centre’s proposal to scrap 12% and 28% tax slabs, recommending just two slabs at 5% and 18%. This major overhaul simplifies indirect taxation and boosts compliance. India observed the second National Space Day on August 23, 2025, commemorating Chandrayaan-3’s successful Moon landing in 2023. Theme: …
Chapter 1: Introduction to Economics Core Economic Reality: Scarcity and Choice Every society faces the fundamental problem of scarcity – unlimited wants but limited resources. This forces individuals and societies to make choices about how to best use their available resources to satisfy needs and wants. The Three Central Economic Problems All economies must address …
Chapter 1: Introduction to Macroeconomics What is Macroeconomics? Macroeconomics studies the economy as a whole, focusing on broad economic questions that concern all citizens: Will prices rise or fall overall? Is employment improving or worsening? What indicates economic health? What steps can the State take to improve the economy? Key Difference from Microeconomics Microeconomics: Studies …