The Economic Heritage of Ancient India

byTulika Prashant

Ancient India typically refers to the period from the beginning of the Indus Valley Civilisation (approximately 3300 BCE) to the end of the Gupta Empire (around 600 CE). Ancient India had a rich culture, with flourishing art, architecture, literature and economy. The economic landscape of ancient India was shaped by its agricultural communities, trade networks spread across India and beyond and distinctive social and political systems.

Key Elements of Ancient India’s Economy Agrarian Society The foundation of ancient India’s economy rested on agriculture. Early Harappan communities depended on flood water for irrigation, which led to the establishment of villages along rivers. The fertile plains along the Indus River and its t