Question

Select the correct option by matching the following:
a) Khiraj 1) Moneylenders
b) Hoe (Kudal) 2) Symbol of Santhali
c) Plough 3) Symbol of the Hill people
d) Diku 4) A type of tax

• A. a - 1, b - 2, c - 3, d - 4
• B. a - 4, b - 3, c - 1, d - 2
• C. a - 4, b - 3, c - 2, d - 1
• D. a - 4, b - 1, c - 2, d - 3

Hint:

Understanding the conflict between the Paharias (who used the hoe for shifting cultivation) and the Santhals (who were encouraged by the British to use the plough for settled agriculture) is key to solving questions related to tribal history in colonial India.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concepts:
This question requires knowledge of specific terms related to revenue systems and tribal societies in Indian history.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's match each term:
a) Khiraj: This was a type of land tax levied on agricultural land, particularly in the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal periods, often on non-Muslims. So, a matches with 4.
b) Hoe (Kudal): The hoe was the primary agricultural tool used by the Paharias (Hill people) of the Rajmahal hills, who practiced shifting cultivation (jhum). It became a symbol of their way of life in contrast to the plough. So, b matches with 3.
c) Plough: The plough was a symbol of settled agriculture. The British encouraged the Santhals to settle in the valleys of the Rajmahal hills and practice plough agriculture. Thus, the plough became a symbol of the Santhals. So, c matches with 2.
d) Diku: This was a term used by tribal communities like the Santhals and Mundas to refer to outsiders, including moneylenders, traders, zamindars, and contractors, whom they saw as exploiters. So, d matches with 1.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct matching is a-4, b-3, c-2, d-1. This corresponds to option (iii) in the original image, which is option (C).