Which Indian empire is known for a Golden Age of learning and the initial use of zero in mathematics?

• A. Mughal Empire
• B. Gupta Empire
• C. Maurya Empire
• D. Maratha Confederacy

Answer: (B)

The question tests recognizing a period famous for a flourishing of learning in ancient India and the early development of zero in mathematics. The Gupta Empire is known as a Golden Age of Indian culture, science, and learning, with scholars making significant advances in mathematics and astronomy. Importantly, this era is associated with the formal use of zero as both a placeholder and a number within the decimal system, as explained by scholars like Brahmagupta. That combination—a peak of intellectual activity and the early, formal use of zero—fits this empire best.

The other choices come from different times and focuses. The Mughal Empire is celebrated for monumental architecture and administration in the medieval to early modern period, not for a Golden Age of learning or the origin of zero. The Maurya Empire predates this flowering of science and is more known for political unification and the spread of Buddhism. The Maratha Confederacy rose much later and is remembered for military and regional power rather than foundational mathematical development.