Daily Current Affairs Quiz: August 07, 2025

Statement 1 is correct: The Portuguese introduced the Cartaz system, a naval trade permit system, to control and monopolize trade routes in the Indian Ocean.

Statement 2 is incorrect: It was the British, not the Portuguese, who established the first European trading center at Surat.

Statement 3 is correct: The Portuguese were indeed instrumental in introducing crops such as tobacco and cashew to the Indian subcontinent, which became important cash crops in various parts of India.

Statement 1 is correct: Sarrafs played a crucial role in the Mughal economy, extending beyond mere money changing to encompass banking, finance, and credit provision. This facilitated trade and commerce by providing essential financial services.

Statement 2 is correct: While concentrated in urban areas, Sarrafs also operated in rural settings, catering to the financial needs of agricultural regions and communities connected by trade routes.

Statement 3 is correct: The hundi system, a complex network of credit instruments, was not solely managed by Sarrafs. Merchants and other trading communities also participated in its operation, utilizing hundis for their financial transactions.

Statement 4 is correct: Sarrafs’ specialized knowledge in assessing currencies and commodities was vital for determining exchange rates and the value of goods. This expertise contributed significantly to the stability of the Mughal financial system and the smooth flow of trade.

a: Mahendravarman II succeeded Narasimhavarman I, but his reign was short and he is not primarily known for architectural achievements.

b: Paramesvaravarman II succeeded Nandivarman II, much later in the Pallava dynasty.

c: Nandivarman II succeeded Paramesvaravarman II, even later in the Pallava dynasty.

d: (Correct Option) Rajasimha Pallava, also known as Narasimhavarman II, succeeded Paramesvaravarman I. He is renowned for his contributions to Pallava architecture, including the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram and the Kailasanatha Temple at Kanchipuram.

a: This order is incorrect based on the available information about the administrative structures of the Cheras and neighboring kingdoms.

b: This option is the most accurate representation based on available evidence. The Mandalam was the largest unit, followed by the Nadu, then the Kottam, and finally the Gramam (village). While the Chera system is less documented, this structure aligns with the Chola administration, suggesting potential similarities.

c: This order is incorrect. The Kurram was a smaller unit within the Nadu.

d: This order is incorrect, placing the Kurram below the Kottam, which contradicts the available evidence.

a is incorrect: While the Mughals, under Mir Jumla, initially made significant advances and even occupied Garhgaon, the Ahom capital, they failed to annex the kingdom entirely.

b is the correct: The Ahoms, led by Lachit Borphukan, effectively used guerilla warfare tactics and exploited the terrain and climate to their advantage, ultimately pushing the Mughals back. The Treaty of Ghilajarighat formalized the Mughal withdrawal.

c is incorrect: The Treaty of Ghilajarighat did not simply recognize pre-existing boundaries. It involved territorial concessions from both sides, with the Ahoms regaining most, but not all, of their lost territories.

d is incorrect: While the Marathas and Ahoms shared a common enemy in the Mughals, there is no historical evidence of a formal alliance or joint military operations against the Mughals during this specific conflict. The Ahoms fought the Mughals independently.