Why: The Vedic Period spans approximately from 1500 BCE to 500 BCE, marking a crucial epoch in ancient Indian history characterized by the composition of the Vedas, the earliest sacred texts of Hinduism. This era witnessed the emergence and consolidation of Vedic culture, which laid the foundation for many aspects of Indian civilization. The early Vedic Period or Rig Vedic Period specifically belongs to the period of 1500 BCE to 1000 BCE, while the later Vedic period extends to around 500 BCE. Therefore, option B (1500 BCE to 500 BCE) represents the complete Vedic Period.

Why: The Rig Vedic period, which represents the early Vedic period, is generally placed between 1500-1000 BCE. This period marks the beginning of the Vedic age in ancient India, following the collapse of the Indus Valley Civilization around 1900 BCE with the advent of Indo-Aryan people who migrated into north-western India. The Rigveda, the oldest among the Vedas, provides invaluable insights into the socio-cultural, religious, and philosophical milieu of this ancient period. Therefore, option B (1500-1000 BCE) is the correct answer.

Why: The Vedic Age is divided into two distinct periods: the Early Vedic Period (Rig Vedic Period) spanning from 1500 BCE to 1000 BCE, and the Later Vedic Period extending from 1000 BCE to approximately 500 BCE. The Early Vedic Period is characterized by the composition of the Rigveda and represents the initial phase of Vedic culture when the Vedic people were predominantly pastoral communities. The Later Vedic Period witnessed the composition of other Vedas (Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda) and saw significant developments in agriculture, social structure, and religious practices. Therefore, option B (Two) is the correct answer.

Why: The Rig Vedic society was patriarchal in nature, not matriarchal. The Vedic people, known as Aryans, were predominantly pastoral and agrarian communities whose livelihoods revolved around cattle rearing, agriculture, and trade. Their society was structured around a complex system of rituals, customs, and social hierarchy, as reflected in the Vedic texts. The patriarchal structure is evident from the dominance of male deities and the central role of male members in religious and social affairs. The society was not primarily urban but rather pastoral and agrarian in character. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Why: This answer comprehensively covers the significance of the Rigvedic period and the economic activities of Vedic society, including pastoral activities, agriculture, trade, and social organization.