According to Nyaya (Classical school of logic) which of the following step of inference corresponds to Upanaya?

Correct option is D

In the Nyaya school of logic, Upanaya refers to the application or comparison step in the process of inference (Anumana). It connects the observed characteristic (smoke) to the universal relationship (where there is smoke, there is fire) to establish the conclusion.
The steps of inference in the Nyaya system are:
1. Pratijna (Proposition): The hill has fire.
2. Hetu (Reason): Because it has smoke.
3. Udaharana (Example): Whatever has smoke has fire, e.g., an oven.
4. Upanaya (Application): The hill has smoke which is invariably associated with fire.
5. Nigamana (Conclusion): Therefore, the hill has fire.
Information Booster: · Nyaya logic emphasizes systematic reasoning and rational argument.
· The five-step syllogism ensures the reasoning process is comprehensive and robust.
· Each step has a specific function, making the inference logically sound.
· Upanaya bridges the observation (Hetu) with the general principle (Udaharana).
· This structured approach influenced later developments in Indian and global logical traditions.