With reference to the political and social developments in the Vedic period, consider the following statements:

1. The concept of Janapada emerged during the Early Vedic Period.

2. The Later Vedic Period saw the transition from tribal chiefdoms to monarchy.

3. Standing armies were a prominent feature of warfare in both the Early and Later Vedic Periods.

4. The Varna system was rigidly established in the Early Vedic Period.

5. Battles in the Early Vedic Period were primarily fought for territorial expansion.

How many of the above statements are correct?

The correct answer is option 1. 

Key Points

• The concept of Janapada (territorial states) emerged during the Later Vedic Period, not the Early Vedic Period. In the Early Vedic Period, society was organized into tribes (janas) rather than territorial states. Hence, 1 is incorrect.
• The Later Vedic Period witnessed the transition from tribal chiefdoms to more centralized and hereditary monarchies. The king's power increased, and the role of tribal assemblies diminished. Hence, 2 is correct.
• Standing armies were not a feature of the Early Vedic Period. In the Early Vedic Period, military forces were composed of tribal militias, which were temporary. Standing armies became prominent only in the Later Vedic Period. Hence, 3 is incorrect.
• The Varna system was not rigidly established in the Early Vedic Period. It was more fluid and based on occupation rather than birth. The rigidity of the Varna system developed during the Later Vedic Period. Hence, 4 is incorrect.
• Battles in the Early Vedic Period were primarily fought for cattle and other movable wealth, not for territorial expansion. Territorial expansion became significant in the Later Vedic Period. Hence, 5 is incorrect.