What was ‘Varta’ during the Mauryan period?

→ In Ancient Indian economic thought, especially during the Mauryan period, Varta was a collective term for the primary branches of the economy.
→ It specifically included Agriculture (Krishi), Cattle-rearing/Domestication (Pasupalya), and Trade (Vanijya).
→ Kautilya emphasized that the state's treasury and power depended on the flourishing of Varta.
→ Since both Option B and Option C are part of the definition of Varta, the correct answer is More than one of the above.
Information Booster

→ Varta is described as one of the four essential sciences (Vidyas) for a king, alongside Anvikshiki, Trayi, and Dandaniti.
→ It provides the material basis (grain, cattle, money) for the state's functioning.
→ The state provided irrigation facilities (Setu) to promote agriculture within Varta.
→ Kautilya mentions that Varta is the source of the army and the treasury (Kosa-danda-shakti).
→ Later texts included money-lending as a fourth component of Varta.
Additional Information

Option (A) Officer’s visit: There is no historical administrative term 'Varta' that signifies an officer's visit; such visits were part of routine Nirikshana or inspections.
Option (B) Domestication of animal: While this is a correct component of Varta, it is not the only correct component among the choices.
Option (C) Agricultural work: Similarly, while agriculture is the heart of Varta, Option B is also correct, necessitating the choice of Option D.
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