Answer: Motupalli
Notes: The correct answer is [B] Motupalli. During the reign of the Kakatiya dynasty (12th–14th century), Motupalli emerged as a premier center for maritime trade in the Andhra region.
- Motupalli (Statement [B] – Correct): Located in the present-day Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh, Motupalli was the chief port of the Kakatiyas. The famous Venetian traveler Marco Polo, who visited the kingdom during the reign of Rudrama Devi, described the port's prosperity and the high quality of its exports, particularly delicate muslins and diamonds.
- Abhaya Shasana: King Ganapati Deva issued the famous Motupalli Abhaya Shasana (charter of security). This edict granted protection and reduced customs duties to foreign merchants, encouraging international trade which had previously been hampered by heavy taxes and the seizure of cargo from shipwrecked vessels.
- Other Options:
- Kakinada (Statement [A] – Incorrect): While a significant port in modern times, it was not the primary administrative port of the Kakatiya era.
- Machilipatnam (Statement [C] – Incorrect): Also known as Masulipatnam, it became a major global trading hub later, particularly under the Qutb Shahi rulers and during the arrival of European powers like the Dutch and British.
- Nelluru (Statement [D] – Incorrect): Though an ancient town and capital of the Telugu Chodas (who were subordinates/allies of Kakatiyas), it was not the specific "important seaport" highlighted in historical texts for Kakatiya maritime commerce.
