UPSC Prelims 2015— Question 39

Correct answer: Option D. The Buddha’s life and the early history of Buddhism were closely associated with the Mahajanapada-era political landscape. Kosala and Magadha were especially important kingdoms in the Buddha’s lifetime, while Avanti also formed part of the contemporary political world. The combination tested in the question is Kosala and Magadha. Option-wise analysis: Option A: “1, 2 and 3” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option B: “2 and 3 only” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option C: “1, 3 and 4” is incorrect. It does not match the specific fact, definition, institutional role, geographical association, or constitutional/economic principle required here. The key distinction is the one identified in the core explanation, so this option can be eliminated. Option D: “3 and 4 only” is correct. It directly matches the factual or conceptual requirement tested by the question and is supported by the principle explained above. Prelims takeaway: Focus on the precise institutional role, constitutional provision, geographical association, or technical definition being tested. UPSC questions often place a broadly familiar fact beside a narrowly incorrect qualifier; identifying that qualifier is essential for elimination.