What is meant by ancient Indo-Iranian shared identity?

Ancient Indo-Aryan and Old Iranian cultures are part of a broader ethno-linguistic Indo-Iranian phase of common ancestry. Evidence of this shared heritage is found in the Rig Veda and the Avesta. Shared elements include the cult of soma/haoma, fire worship, natural cults, solar and lunar divinities, and linguistic similarities tracing back to Proto-Indo-Iranian roots. Archaeological parallels between Susa in Iran and Indus Valley sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa also suggest long-standing Indo-Iranian cultural links.

Did both the Rig Veda and the Avesta mention horses?

Yes. Both the Rig Veda and the Avesta contain representations of horses as key elements of military and aristocratic life. Archaeological evidence from steppe cultures such as the Srednij Stog and Yamnaya cultures supports early horse domestication and its cultural importance among Indo-Iranian groups.

Why were early American traders called 'Yankees' in India?

After the American Revolutionary War in 1783, American merchants from New England, particularly Salem and Boston, began trading directly with India. They were called 'Yankees' and entered Asian markets after being barred from British-controlled trade networks. They were among the first Americans to reach India because they were already experienced merchants seeking new trading opportunities.

Who was Dakshayani Velayudhan and why is she important in Indian constitutional history?

Dakshayani Velayudhan was a member of the Constituent Assembly of India elected from the Madras constituency. At the age of 34, she was one of the youngest members and the only Dalit woman in the Assembly. She advocated social transformation through the Constitution and argued against separate electorates for Scheduled Castes.

What were the roles of Mir Bakshi, Mir Saman, and Waqia Navis in the Mughal administration?

In the Mughal administrative system, the Mir Bakshi was the head of the military establishment, responsible for military appointments and organization. The Mir Saman was in charge of the imperial karkhanas (royal workshops and stores). The Waqia Navis was a royal news reporter responsible for recording and transmitting information to the emperor.

What does Kantakasodhana mean in ancient Indian polity?

Kantakasodhana, mentioned in the Arthashastra, refers to the system dealing with the detection, suppression, and punishment of criminals. It was essentially the criminal justice and public order mechanism in ancient Indian administration.

Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - History & Culture - 14th March 2026

Jigyashu Mishra
Mar 13
1 min read

Updated: Mar 21

Test your UPSC CSE 2026 preparation with today’s Indian History & Culture (Every Saturday) Quiz — covering ancient Indo-Iranian shared identities, Yankees, Dalit woman in the Assembly, Mughal Empire, Kantakasodhana and more.

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Daily UPSC Prelims MCQs - History & Culture - 14th March 2026

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