UPSC Prelims 1997 · General Studies
Question 102: History and Culture
The Badami rock inscription of Pulakesin I is dated in the Saka year 465. If the same were to be dated in Vikrama Samvat, the year would be
AnswerThe answer is (a).
The Saka era began in 78 CE and the Vikrama Samvat in 57 BCE, a gap of 135 years, so a Saka date plus 135 gives the Vikrama year. Saka 465 plus 135 is 600. The key gives 601, the nearest option, and a one-year difference of this kind can arise from whether years are counted as current or expired. The Badami inscription of Pulakesin I, the first great Chalukya king of Badami, dates from 543 CE.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: Saka 465 plus the 135-year gap gives about 600, and 601 is the option nearest to it.
- (b) 300 does not come from adding 135 to 465.
- (c) 330 does not come from adding 135 to 465.
- (d) 407 does not come from adding 135 to 465.
Worth knowing: The standard 135-year difference gives 600, one year off the keyed 601, which is the only option near it.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1997, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.