1. Which among the following was not a port city during the ancient period? (JUNE 2013)

(1) Tuticorin
(2) Poompuhar
(3) Tamralipti
(4) Nagapatnam

Answer: 1

The correct answer is (1) Tuticorin.

Ancient India had several well-known port cities that played a vital role in maritime trade with regions such as Southeast Asia, Rome, and the Middle East. Poompuhar (also known as Kaveripattinam) was a famous Chola port mentioned in Sangam literature and was a major center of overseas trade. Tamralipti was one of the most important eastern ports, serving as a gateway for trade with Southeast Asia and also for Buddhist pilgrimages. Nagapattinam was another significant port that flourished especially under the Cholas, maintaining active maritime links with Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

In contrast, Tuticorin (modern Thoothukudi) is an important port in later and modern times, but it is not prominently attested as a major port city in ancient historical sources in the same way as the others listed.

Therefore, the option that was not a port city during the ancient period is Tuticorin, making Option (1) correct.