RAS question
Taxila (Takshashila) was an important center of learning located in modern-day:
Correct answer: (A) Pakistan.
Taxila, also called Takshashila, was an important ancient centre of learning located in modern-day Pakistan.
Explanation
Taxila or Takshashila is identified by NCERT as an ancient Indian city that is now in north-western Pakistan, so the modern country asked for in the question is Pakistan. The site's importance comes from its role as a noted centre of higher learning, with study in ancient scriptures, law, medicine, astronomy, military science and the eighteen arts. Its reputation rested on the expertise of its teachers and on pupils such as Panini, Jivaka and Chanakya, who studied there. Taxila was near Rawalpindi and was linked with Gandhara learning from the 5th century BCE. NCERT further notes that UNESCO declared Taxila a World Heritage Site in 1980.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Afghanistan is wrong because NCERT places Takshashila in north-western Pakistan, not across the border in Afghanistan.
- (C) India is wrong because Takshashila was an ancient Indian city historically, but its archaeological site is in present-day Pakistan.
- (D) Nepal is wrong because NCERT discusses Takshashila among ancient centres of learning but identifies its present location as north-western Pakistan, not Nepal.
Concept
This tests the location of ancient Indian centres of learning, a recurring RAS theme because sites such as Takshashila connect political geography, education history and cultural heritage. The trap is confusing the ancient Indian cultural sphere with present-day national boundaries.