Q. With reference to the Early Vedic polity, consider the following statements:
1.The rajan was the elected chief of the jana, assisted by assemblies such as sabha and samiti, which played a role in limiting his powers.
2.The Early Vedic polity featured a hereditary monarchy based on the rule of primogeniture.
3.The early Vedic army (sena) was a permanent standing force maintained by the state.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[A] 1 only

[B] 1 and 2 only

[C] 2 and 3 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A
Notes:

Explanation:

  • The rajan (tribal chief) was usually elected and not absolute, with his powers checked by assemblies like sabha and samiti, which discussed military, judicial, and religious matters.
  • Though succession within a family was sometimes observed, there was no fixed hereditary system, and primogeniture (eldest son inheriting) was not practiced.
  • The sena was not a standing army but a temporary force of able-bodied tribesmen mobilized during war.

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

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