What was 'Vishti' in ancient India?

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UKPSC Lower PCS Preliminary Exam Official Paper (Held On: 11 May, 2025)
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  1. forced labour
  2. trade and commerce tax
  3. Temple Tax
  4. Irrigation Tax

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 1 : forced labour
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Detailed Solution

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The correct answer is forced labour.

Key Points

  • Vishti referred to a form of forced or unpaid labour that existed in ancient India, where individuals were required to work for the state or feudal lords without any payment.
  • This practice was commonly associated with the feudal structure of governance, where peasants or the lower classes were compelled to render services to their rulers or landlords.
  • Vishti was particularly widespread during the Gupta period, where it was used for public works like building infrastructure, irrigation systems, or maintaining forts.
  • It was considered a significant aspect of the taxation system in ancient India, as forced labour was often levied in lieu of monetary taxes.
  • The system of Vishti was indicative of the social hierarchy and the exploitation faced by the lower strata of society in ancient times.

Additional Information

  • Feudalism in ancient India:
    • Feudalism refers to a socio-economic structure where rulers or landlords owned the land, and peasants were obliged to work for them in exchange for protection or subsistence.
    • This system was prevalent during the Gupta and post-Gupta periods, significantly influencing the socio-political framework of the time.
  • Gupta Period:
    • The Gupta Empire (circa 320–550 CE) is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of India, known for advancements in science, art, and administration.
    • During this period, forced labour (Vishti) was institutionalized as a part of the state’s economy.
  • Taxation in ancient India:
    • Taxes were collected in various forms, including money, crops, and labour (like Vishti).
    • This system enabled the rulers to fund public works, maintain armies, and sustain the royal court.
  • Social hierarchy:
    • The caste system and feudal structure created rigid divisions in society, where the lower classes, like Shudras and peasants, were often subjected to exploitative practices like Vishti.
    • Such practices highlighted the inequalities prevalent in ancient Indian society.
  • Decline of Vishti:
    • With the advent of more structured economies and monetary taxation systems, practices like Vishti gradually declined.
    • The system was also abolished due to social reforms and the influence of later rulers who sought to reduce exploitation.
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