Population and Pollution in Ancient India
Population in Ancient India Population Size and Distribution The population of ancient India was significantly lower than it is today. Estimates suggest the population ranged from a few million in early Vedic times (1500 BCE) to tens of millions by the Mauryan period (circa 321–185 BCE). Settlements were primarily agrarian, with people living in villages, and cities like Pataliputra, Varanasi, and Taxila serving as trade and cultural hubs. Social Structure and Population Management The caste system (Varna system) and the extended family (joint family system) played a central role in organizing society. Population growth was influenced by agricultural productivity, climatic conditions, and socio-political stability. Pollution in Ancient India Sources of Pollution Air Pollution : Limited in ancient times due to minimal industrial activity. Air pollution primarily resulted from household activities like cooking and heating using wood, dung, or charcoal as fuel. Water Pollution : Rivers we...