Consider the following statements regarding mining and metallurgy during the Gupta period: 1. The Mehrauli Iron Pillar, attributed to Chandragupta II, is a testament to the advanced iron metallurgy of the Gupta era. 2. Mining and metallurgy were one of the most flourishing industries during the Gupta period. 3. Only iron and copper were used during the Gupta period, and other metals like lead and tin were introduced much later. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |ForumIAS

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 2 and 3 only

[C] 1 and 3 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Notes:

Explanation:

The Mehrauli Iron Pillar near the Qutb Minar, associated with Chandragupta II, is well-known for its rust-resistant properties and is a key example of Gupta-era metallurgical excellence.
Mining and metallurgy was one of the most flourishing industries during the Gupta eriod, with extensive use of various metals and skilled craftsmanship.
There was a wide range of metals in use during the Gupta period, including gold, copper, tin, lead, brass, bronze, antimony, red chalk, and red arsenic—not just iron and copper.

Source: NCERT and Ancient India – NCERT (R.S.Sharma)