'Bhaga' and 'Bali' were:
U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1996
A. Military Departments
B. Sources of Revenue
C. Religious Ceremonies
D. Administrative Divisions
Answer: Sources of Revenue
Option b is the correct answer.
In the context of ancient Indian history, 'Bhaga' and 'Bali' referred to sources of revenue.
Bhaga: In ancient Indian society, "Bhaga" was a term used to denote a share or portion of the agricultural produce or wealth that was contributed as revenue or tax. It was a form of taxation where a certain portion of the produce or income was collected by the state as revenue. Normal peasants had to pay one-sixth of the produce as Bhaga and Sharecroppers, who were given crown lands and agricultural aid by the state, were required to contribute fifty percent of their produce as payment to the government.
Bali: "Bali" referred to offerings or tribute made to the ruling authority. These offerings could include goods, produce, or even monetary contributions. Bali was a way for subjects to acknowledge the authority of the ruler and provide resources to the administration.