Given below are two statements, one labelled as Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R) : Assertion (A): Bimbisara was the earliest of Indian kings to stress the need for efficient administration. Reason (R) : The ministers of Bimbisara were hand-picked and he was reputed never to ignore their advice. In the context of the above two statements, which one of the following is correct ?
Bimbisara's Administration: Assertion Analysis
Assertion (A) states that Bimbisara was the earliest Indian king to emphasize efficient administration. Historical records indicate that Bimbisara, ruler of Magadha, implemented significant administrative reforms. He established a well-organized governmental structure, appointed specific officials for various duties (like ministers, commanders, treasurers), and focused on strengthening the kingdom's resources and infrastructure. This reflects an early and notable emphasis on effective governance and state management in ancient India. Therefore, Assertion (A) is considered true.
Bimbisara's Ministers: Reason Analysis
Reason (R) suggests that Bimbisara's ministers were carefully selected ('hand-picked') and that he valued their advice. Ancient texts, such as Buddhist scriptures, depict Bimbisara as a wise ruler who relied on the counsel of his ministers. The practice of selecting ministers implies a deliberate effort to appoint capable individuals, and his reputed respect for their advice indicates a leadership style conducive to informed decision-making. This makes Reason (R) also true.
Connecting Assertion and Reason
The efficiency of a kingdom's administration (Assertion A) is significantly influenced by the quality of its leadership and advisors. Bimbisara's approach of selecting competent ministers and genuinely considering their input (Reason R) directly supports and facilitates the goal of achieving efficient administration. A king who listens to well-chosen advisors is better equipped to implement effective policies and manage state affairs smoothly. Thus, Reason (R) correctly explains why Assertion (A) is plausible and true.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis, both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are factually correct statements regarding Bimbisara's reign and administrative approach. Furthermore, Reason (R) provides a valid explanation for Assertion (A), as the king's reliance on his chosen advisors directly contributed to the efficient administration he fostered.
Therefore, the correct option is that both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
Important Questions from Rise of Magadha
Iron mines in Jharkhand attributed to the rise of which of the following kingdoms in ancient India?
Given below are two statements- one labelled as Assertion (A) and the other labelled as Reason (R):
Assertion (A) : Ajatashatru is believed to have murdered his father in about 493 BC. He annexed Kosala despite the fact that its ruler was his maternal uncle.
Reason (R) : Ajatashatru, the son of Bimbisara of Magadh, was impatient to become the ruler of Magadh and annexed the regions.
In the context of the above two statements, which of the following is correct?
Which of the following pairs is not correctly matched ?
(Upanishadic kings) (Kingdoms) 1) Ajatasatru Magadha 2) Asvapati Kekaya 3) Janaka Videha 4) Pravahana Jaivali Panchala - The Greek settlement ‘Boukephala’ was situated on :
- Which among the following contemporary sects is said to have played a role in the overthrow of the Nanda dynasty ?
