Ancient Indian Science, Technology, Mathematics and Medicine
BPSC demand
Questions usually test a scholar–text–field pair, not a vague claim of “first in the world.” Learn the precise association: Aryabhata–Aryabhatiya–astronomy/mathematics; Brahmagupta–Brahmasphutasiddhanta–rules for zero; Charaka–medicine; Sushruta–surgery.
Core pairs
Person/text
Safe fact
Aryabhata / Aryabhatiya
Astronomy and mathematics; explains apparent daily motion through Earth’s rotation.
Brahmagupta / Brahmasphutasiddhanta
Rules for arithmetic with zero and negative numbers; dated 628 CE.
Varahamihira / Panchasiddhantika
Compilation discussing five astronomical systems.
Varahamihira / Brihat Samhita
Encyclopaedic work with astronomy and other subjects.
Charaka Samhita
Classical Ayurvedic medicine.
Sushruta Samhita
Classical surgical tradition.
Memory timeline
Do not confuse
Pair
Correct distinction
Charaka / Sushruta
Charaka is linked with medicine; Sushruta with surgery.
Aryabhata / Brahmagupta
Aryabhatiya / Brahmasphutasiddhanta.
Panchasiddhantika / Brihat Samhita
Both Varahamihira; former discusses five astronomical systems.