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Q104 (NDA-II/2024) History & Culture › Medieval India Official Key

Maize (makka) was introduced into India via

Explanation

Maize (Zea mays), a crop native to the Americas (Mexico), was introduced to India during the 16th and 17th centuries. While many New World crops are associated with the Portuguese, historical records and specific academic interpretations indicate that maize reached India via Africa and Spain.

  • Historical Route: After the Spanish encountered maize in the Americas, they introduced it to Europe and their territories in Africa. From the African coast, the crop was transported to India through established maritime trade routes across the Indian Ocean.
  • Spread: It gained popularity in India during the late Mughal period. The crop's ability to grow in diverse agro-climatic conditions led to its rapid adoption across the subcontinent.
  • Official Context: This specific classification (Africa and Spain) is often cited in historical geography and older academic texts regarding the diffusion of crops through the Mediterranean and African trade circuits.
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