Q. With reference to the economic history of medieval India, the term 'Araghatta' refers to (UPSC Prelims 2016)
Answer:
waterwheel used in the irrigation of land
Notes: The correct answer is
[C] waterwheel used in the irrigation of land. The term
Araghatta is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Ara' (spoke) and 'Ghatta' (pot), signifying its mechanical structure.
- Definition and Function (Statement C – Correct): The Araghatta was a Persian wheel-like device used to lift water from wells for irrigation. It consisted of a large wheel with a chain of pots or buckets attached to its rim. As the wheel rotated (usually driven by animal power like bullocks), the pots dipped into the water source and emptied into a channel at the top.
- Historical Context: While rudimentary forms of water-lifting devices existed in ancient India, the more advanced version involving gears became widespread during the medieval period, particularly under the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire. It revolutionized agriculture by allowing for the irrigation of lands situated at a higher elevation than the water source.
- Other Terms (Incorrect):
- Bonded Labour (Statement A): Often referred to as Visti or Begar in various historical periods of India.
- Military Land Grants (Statement B): Known as Iqta during the Sultanate period and Jagir during the Mughal period.
- Wasteland Conversion (Statement C): Often associated with the expansion of Khalisa (crown lands) or specific revenue grants like Madad-i-Maash.
- Significance: Babur, in his memoir Baburnama, provides a detailed description of the working of the Persian wheel (Araghatta) in the regions of Lahore and Dipalpur, noting how it was essential for the prosperity of North Indian agriculture.