The economy of the Vedic period was mainly a combination of _______________.

The correct answer is agriculture and animal husbandry.

Key Points

• The economy of the Vedic period (1500 BCE to 600 BCE) was primarily based on agriculture and animal husbandry, which formed the backbone of livelihood.
• Domestication of animals such as cows, horses, sheep, and goats was crucial, and cattle were considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
• Agricultural activities were largely dependent on seasonal rainfall, and grains such as barley were cultivated.
• Animal husbandry was not only a source of food (milk, meat) but also provided raw materials like leather, wool, and dung for fuel and manure.
• The barter system was prevalent during the Vedic period, with cattle often used as a medium of exchange.

Additional Information

• Vedic Economy:
  • The Vedic economy was primarily agrarian, relying heavily on natural resources and manual labor.
  • The use of ploughs (known as "Langala") and irrigation techniques were gradually developed during the later Vedic period.
• Cattle in Vedic Society:
  • Cattle were considered sacred and were central to the socio-economic fabric of the Vedic society.
  • The term "Gomat" (possessor of cows) was used to denote wealth, and cow protection was a significant aspect of the culture.
• Barter System:
  • Money as a formal concept was absent, and the barter system was used for trade and transactions.
  • Commodities like grains, cattle, and other goods were exchanged for essential items.
• Other Economic Activities:
  • The Vedic period also witnessed rudimentary forms of trade and craftsmanship, such as pottery, carpentry, and metalwork.
  • Trade was mostly localized, though later Vedic texts hint at distant trade routes being explored.