UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2026

Consider the following statements relating to the use of the place-value system in India: 1. The earliest epigraphic use of the place-value system in India is found in the Mankani plates from Gujarat (AD 595–596). 2. In the ninth century, place-values become general in inscriptions all over India. 3. The place-values have been found in Sanskrit inscriptions in South-east Asia as early as the seventh century. Which of the statements given above are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 1 and 3 only
  3. 2 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer

Correct Answer

1, 2 and 3

Explanation

All three statements are correct. Early epigraphic evidence of the Indian place-value system is associated with the Mankani plates from Gujarat. By the ninth century, place-value notation had become widespread in Indian inscriptions. The system also spread beyond India, with evidence of its use in Sanskrit inscriptions in parts of Southeast Asia from as early as the seventh century.

Topics: ancient history, epigraphy, indian mathematics, place-value system