What does the term 'Vishti' refer to during the Gupta Empire?

Correct Answer: Forced Labour

Subject: history

• Agricultural Land
• Forced Labour
• Toll Tax
• Merchant Guild

Explanation: The term 'Vishti' referred to forced labour during the Gupta Empire. • It was considered a legitimate source of income for the state, paid by the people in the form of physical work. • It functioned essentially as an unpaid tax mechanism. • Agricultural land was measured in Kulyavapa; Merchant guilds were called Shrenis. • Vishti = V for Volunteer (forced) labour. • It highlights the oppressive social conditions faced by the lower classes during the 'Golden Age'.

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