Question

four main sources of history of modern India

Answer 1

There are many sources of ancient indian history. The most important one's are the following in no particular order:Literature:Both indian and foreign literature. For example, Puranas, especially Bhavisya Puran gives an idea of early indian kingdoms though it isnot that accurate. Arthshastra written by Chanakya throws light on administrative aspects of Mauryan Empire. There are several other literature that have historical value. But reliability of literature sources is questionable. As theydon't always portray the true picture.Coins:coins tells a lotabout the financial position of the king and the region. Discovery of large number of gold coins of Gupta period led tobelief that it was quite a prosperous period in indian history. Whereas, lessnumber of gold coins denote that the periodwas less prosperous .Travellers accounts- A great deal of knowledge about the time and reign of Harshvardhan has been gained from Chinese traveller Hiuen tsang’s account. The first mention of world famous Kumbha Mela is found in his accounts. Similarly Fa hien visited during Gupta period and wrote about the same. This source is also affected by author’s personal biases.Excavation- Indus valley civilization wasdiscovered through massive excavation. Several artefacts, coins and other itemsof archaeological value are discovered in excavation that unleash information about that era.Archaeological Evidences- such as artefacts, rock inscriptions, pillar inscriptions. A great deal of information has been obtained from Ashoka’s pillars.We come to know of Samudragupta military campaigns though his inscription“Prayag Prasashti”.

Answer 2

A primary source of information for historians is the official records of the British administration.              The British kept written records of every key instruction, meeting, transaction, investigation, plan, policy decision and agreement. They attached record rooms with all the important administrative institutions.

The British built specialized institutions like museums and archives to preserve important documents.  
Historians gather important information about the provincial administrative system from the reports, memos, notings and letters preserved in the 19th century in the archives and record rooms across India.

For effective administration, the British carried out a number of surveys in the early 19thcentury.

By the end of the 19th century, censuses of all the Indian provinces were being carried out every ten years. This helped to collect information on the religion, caste and occupation of the people. These surveys have helped historians to collect information about modern India.