Topic Epigraphy
Asked 11 times across 5 UPSC exams over 10 years (2016–2026), peaking in 2018.
Key insights
- Most tested in GEO — 4 of 11 PYQs
- Most asked in 2018
- Recurs across 7 years (2016–2026)
How it travelled across exams
First appearance in each exam — the same idea, reframed.
CSE 2016 → CDS 2018 → CAPF 2018 → GEO 2021 → NDA 2024
How the concept evolved
Rising — more than half its appearances (10 of 11) are since 2016.
Related concepts
Ideas UPSC tests alongside this one — keep exploring.
Sample questions
You've seen the pattern — here are a few of the actual PYQs.
CDS2026
With reference to the Junagadh inscription of Rudradaman, consider the following statements
- The script of this inscription is Kharoshti and the language is Prakrit
- The inscription records the restoration of a reservoir called Sudarshana Lake
- It is an undated inscription
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?
- A 1 only
- B 2 only ✓
- C 1 and 2 only
- D 1, 2 and 3
✓ Correct answer: (B)
History › Ancient India
GEO2026
A 150 CE inscription of Shaka ruler Rudradaman and a 5th century inscription, at the same place, of the time of Gupta king Skandagupta refer to which one of the following?
- A King Ashoka's visit to the birthplace of Buddha
- B Construction of an ancient theatre
- C Construction of Rajsamand Lake
- D Construction and reconstruction of Sudarshana Lake
Answer key not yet available (pending official release)
History › Ancient India
NDA2024
Consider the following statements about ancient Indian inscriptions
- The earliest inscriptions are in Sanskrit
- Kharosthi script, used in inscriptions in the north-west, was deciphered with the help of coins of Indo-Greek kings who ruled over the area
- Most of the inscriptions mention grand, unique events, and routine agricultural practices do not find mention
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
- A 1
- B 2 ✓
- C 3
- D None
✓ Correct answer: (B)
History › Ancient India
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