Question

Which among the following was not the major factor for the development of agriculture during Mughal India?

• A. Availability of land in abundance
• B. Availability of cheap labour
• C. Availability of peasants
• D. Availability of tube-wells for irrigation

Hint:

Modern irrigation methods like tube-wells came much later; Mughal agriculture depended mainly on wells, canals, and rainfall.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding Mughal agriculture. 
During the Mughal period, agriculture was the backbone of the economy. Its development depended on natural resources and human labour rather than modern technology. 

Step 2: Identify actual contributing factors. 
There was abundance of cultivable land, and a large number of peasants were available to work on this land. Labour was also relatively cheap, which helped in expanding agricultural production. 

Step 3: Analyse irrigation methods. 
In Mughal India, irrigation was mainly done through wells, canals, tanks, and rivers. Modern irrigation techniques like tube-wells were not available during that period. 

Step 4: Evaluate options. 
(A) Correct factor — land was available in abundance. 
(B) Correct factor — cheap labour supported agriculture. 
(C) Correct factor — peasants were available. 
(D) Incorrect factor — tube-wells are a modern development, not used in Mughal India. 

Step 5: Conclusion. 
Thus, the option that was not a major factor in Mughal agricultural development is availability of tube-wells. 
Final Answer: Availability of tube-wells for irrigation.