Foreign Trade

Step 1: Background.
Pineapple, papaya, and maize are not native to India. These crops were originally from the Americas and were introduced to India after the Columbian Exchange that followed the discovery of the New World (1492 onwards).
Step 2: Time of introduction.
These crops were brought to India by the Portuguese during the early modern period. They began to be cultivated widely only from the 17th century.
Step 3: Analyze each option.
- (A) 6th century: Too early, India had no contact with American crops.
- (B) 12th century: Before the discovery of America, not possible.
- (C) 14th century: Still too early, no maritime exchange with America yet.
- (D) 17th century: Correct. The period when these crops were introduced and cultivated.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Pineapple, papaya, and maize began to be grown in India from the 17th century.

Step 1: Background of Afanasi Nikitin.
Afanasi Nikitin was a merchant and traveler from Russia. He is famous for his travel account called “The Journey Beyond Three Seas”, where he described his experiences in India.
Step 2: Connection with Vijayanagara.
Nikitin visited India in the 15th century and traveled to the Vijayanagara Empire. His writings provide valuable information on the economic, social, and political life of South India.
Step 3: Analyze each option.
- (A) Portugal: Vasco da Gama and Albuquerque were from Portugal, not Nikitin.
- (B) Italy: Other travelers like Niccolò de’ Conti were Italians.
- (C) Russia: Correct. Nikitin was a Russian merchant.
- (D) Spain: Not connected with Vijayanagara travelers.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Afanasi Nikitin, who visited Vijayanagara, was a merchant from Russia.