Question

"So much is wrung from the peasants that even dry bread is scarcely left to fill their stomachs." The statement reflects the miserable condition of peasants under heavy taxation during the Mughal period. Who made this observation?

• A. Al-Biruni
• B. Abdur Razzaq
• C. Bernier
• D. Pelsaert

Hint:

Pelsaert → Mughal economy → Peasant hardships

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Foreign travelers and merchants who visited India recorded valuable observations regarding political administration, economy, society and agriculture.

Step 1: Understand who Pelsaert was.
Francisco Pelsaert was a Dutch merchant and traveler associated with the Dutch East India Company. He visited India during the Mughal period and wrote detailed descriptions about social and economic life.

Step 2: Understand his observations.
Pelsaert observed:

• Heavy burden of taxes on peasants
• Poor economic condition of farmers
• Unequal wealth distribution
• Luxurious life of nobles compared to ordinary people

Step 3: Meaning of the statement.
The statement suggests:

• Excessive taxation
• Economic exploitation
• Poverty among peasants
• Lack of sufficient food and resources

Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options.
(A) Al-Biruni mainly studied Indian culture and religion.
(B) Abdur Razzaq wrote about Vijayanagara.
(C) Bernier discussed land ownership and administration.
(D) Pelsaert specifically described peasant suffering. Hence: \[ \boxed{\text{Pelsaert}} \]