Q. Consider the following statements:
1.Magadha was the first state to use elephants on a large scale against its neighbours.
2.The capital city Rajagriha was surrounded by five hills, which helped it to provide natural fortification and was almost impregnable.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation: Magadha enjoyed an advantageous geographical position. Due to its proximity and control over the richest iron deposits (found around south Bihar), Magadhan weapons were far superior and effective.
- Also, both of its capitals, Rajgriha and Patliputra, were situated at strategic points.
- Girivraja or Rajagriha was surrounded by five hills, which helped it to provide natural fortification and was almost impregnable.
- Similarly, Pataliputra was more like a water fort, since it was situated at the confluence of the rivers Son and Ganga.
- Magadha was the first state to use elephants on a large scale against its neighbours.
- Elephants could be used in storming fortresses and in marching over areas lacking roads or other means of communication.
Source: Poonam Dahiya
