Q. With reference to the trade relations of ancient Indians with Romans, consider the following statements:

1. Gold coins called aurei and silver coins called denarii have been found at various places in North-Western India
2. Historical sources indicate a favorable balance of trade for India
3. India mainly imported luxury items and exported spices

Which of the above is / are correct statements?
Answer: Only 2
Notes: Statement 1 (Incorrect): Roman coins have been found in abundance in Southern India (e.g., Arikamedu), not typically the North-West.Statement 2 (Correct): India maintained a favorable balance of trade, as evidenced by Roman writers like Pliny the Elder, who complained about the massive drain of Roman gold to India.Statement 3 (Incorrect): India exported luxury items (spices, silk) and imported gold, silver, and Mediterranean commodities. India exported high-value goods, particularly black pepper (known as Yavanapriya or "loved by Greeks/Romans"), pearls, precious stones, ivory, and fine cotton textiles, to the Roman world.