Which of the following Gupta inscriptions is said to contain the most decisive evidence in favour of the exclusive ownership of land by the state ?

The correct answer is - Paharpur copper plate

Key Points

• Paharpur copper plate
  • It provides the most decisive evidence supporting the idea that the state held exclusive ownership of land during the Gupta period.
  • The inscription records a royal land grant, indicating that the land belonged to the king before being granted to a religious establishment.
  • This document is significant for understanding the administrative and economic policies of the Gupta Empire, particularly the concept of state ownership of resources.
  • The copper plate emphasizes the role of the ruler as the ultimate authority in land distribution, which aligns with the prevalent governance model of the era.

Additional Information

• Allahabad Prasasti
  • Also known as the Prayag Prasasti, this inscription was composed by Harisena, the court poet of Samudragupta.
  • It primarily focuses on Samudragupta's military conquests and achievements rather than issues of land ownership.
• Bhitari Prasasti
  • This inscription, created during the reign of Skandagupta, mainly records his military victories and restoration of the Sudarshana Lake.
  • It does not provide significant information about land ownership policies.
• Junagarh Rock Inscription
  • Associated with Rudradaman I and later Skandagupta, this inscription highlights the repair of the Sudarshana Lake.
  • While it provides insights into public works, it does not discuss exclusive state ownership of land.