CDS 2026 (I) General Knowledge, question 65

Topic: History

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Q65

Which of the following factors was/were responsible for the rise of Magadha as the most powerful Mahajanapada during the 6th6^{th} century BCE ?

  1. Region of productive agriculture

  2. Accessibility to iron-mines

  3. Availability of elephants in the region

Select the answer using the codes given below :

  1. (a) 1 only
  2. (b) 1 and 2 only
  3. (c) 2 and 3 only
  4. (d) 1, 2 and 3Correct answer

Solution.

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

  1. All three factors strengthened Magadha: productive agricultural land supported revenue and population; access to iron helped tools and weapons; and forest elephants supported military power.
  2. Together they provided an economic and strategic advantage.