Source: Extra Practice

The Chola inscriptions mention 'Ur' and 'Nadu' as important administrative units. What did these terms primarily refer to in the Chola administration?

Options

Option A

Types of military cantonments or army camps.

Option B

Different grades of taxes levied by the state.

Option C is correct

Villages and groups of villages (provinces), respectively.

Option D

Royal titles for the emperor and his chief ministers.

Explanation

In the Chola administration, 'Ur' referred to the assembly of villagers, typically found in areas with peasant settlements, while 'Nadu' was a larger administrative unit comprising several 'Urs' or villages. These 'Nadus' often had their own assemblies and played a crucial role in local self-governance, including collecting taxes and administering justice. The other options are incorrect as 'Ur' and 'Nadu' were key geographical and administrative divisions.