Because of its prosperity, India was called ‘ a golden bird’ in the past. Ancient India was very developed in agricutlure and minerals, which was the base of its prosperity. These people were involved in various activities. 

These activities were : 

1. Agriculture and cattle breeding – India has been basically an agricultural country. Agriculture and cattle breeding have been the backbone of Indian economy. The cow was not meant to be killed. In the Rigveda, ploughing, sowing and harvesting and pulling the plough by the bulls and production of food grain is mentioned. Canals are also mentioned there. This indicates that people had well organised irrigation system.

2. Industry – There is a record that thousands of years ago, leather industry, wood industry and stone industry flourished very well.

3. Trade – Trade in those days was highly developed. During the epic age, trade was done both on national and international level. In the Rigveda, there is mention of a boat having 100 oars. In the Taittiriya Upanishad, it is written that during that time food grains was grown in plenty.

During the post – Vedic period, new techniques were developed in agricuture. The system of commercial chambers had also come in vogue. The words ‘Shresthi’ Gan and Ganpati have been used in their connection.

4. Tax System – In ancient texts, it is mentioned that one-sixth or one-tenth part.