Question

Which text mentions "Uniform seeds produce excellent results. Hence, every effort should be made to produce uniform seeds."?

• A. Manusmṛti
• B. Kṛṣiparāśara
• C. Rigveda
• D. Arthaśāstra

Hint:

When a quote gives specific, practical advice about a technical subject (like agriculture, medicine, or architecture), the answer is likely to be a specialized text (shastra) on that subject rather than a general religious or legal text.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Concept Identification
The query seeks an ancient Indian text detailing the agricultural principle that uniform seeds result in optimal yields. This necessitates specialized textual knowledge.

Step 2: Textual Analysis
(A) Manusmṛti: A treatise on jurisprudence and societal norms, not agricultural methodologies.
(B) Kṛṣiparāśara: Attributed to sage Parashara, this ancient text (circa 400 BCE) is exclusively dedicated to agriculture ('Krishi'). It offers practical farming guidance, covering meteorological forecasts, cultivation, seed selection, sowing, and harvesting. A significant aspect highlighted is the importance of seed quality and uniformity.
(C) Rigveda: The primary Vedic scripture, comprising devotional hymns. While agricultural references (e.g., barley cultivation) exist, it is not a practical manual.
(D) Arthaśāstra: Kautilya's work on governance, economics, and military strategy. It includes a section on agricultural administration (Sitadhyaksha) but primarily addresses management and revenue rather than specific cultivation techniques.

Step 3: Conclusion
The presented statement embodies practical, technical agricultural advice, aligning precisely with the central theme of Kṛṣiparāśara.