Kamarup is the ancient name of which present day region or state in India.

Introduction / Context:
Many regions of India were known by different names in ancient times. Questions that ask you to match ancient names with modern states are common in exams because they combine historical and geographical knowledge. Kamarup is one such ancient name that frequently appears in inscriptions and texts. This question tests whether the learner can correctly link Kamarup with the present day region or state of Assam in north eastern India.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The ancient name provided is Kamarup. span style="display:block;">• The question asks for the modern region or state corresponding to Kamarup. • Options list several Indian states from different parts of the country. • We assume a basic awareness of ancient Indian political geography.

Concept / Approach:
The correct approach is to recall that Kamarup was the name of an ancient kingdom located roughly in the area of present day Assam and adjoining regions. The Kamarupa kingdom existed from the early historical period and is mentioned in various Puranas and inscriptions. Therefore, when we see Kamarup or Kamarupa, we should immediately associate it with Assam rather than with states like Bihar, Rajasthan, Karnataka, or Kerala, which had their own distinct ancient names and kingdoms.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise the term Kamarup as an ancient and early medieval kingdom in north eastern India. Step 2: Recall that this kingdom covered areas corresponding largely to modern Assam and sometimes nearby regions. Step 3: Consider each option. Bihar is associated with Magadha, Rajasthan with Rajput states, Karnataka with the Chalukyas and Hoysalas, and Kerala with Chera lands. Step 4: Only Assam fits the association with Kamarup. Step 5: Therefore, mark Assam as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Historical maps and descriptions of the Kamarupa kingdom show it in the Brahmaputra valley and surrounding hills, which are part of present day Assam and neighbouring areas. Kamarupa kings such as Bhaskaravarman appear in records relating to this region. In contrast, Bihar corresponds to Magadha and Vajji, Rajasthan to various Rajput clans, Karnataka to ancient kingdoms like the Kadambas and later Chalukyas, and Kerala to Chera lands along the Malabar coast. This confirms that Kamarup is most accurately matched with Assam.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Bihar: In ancient times, this area was part of Magadha and other kingdoms, not Kamarup. Rajasthan: Historically associated with Rajputana, including clans such as Chauhans, Sisodias, and Rathores, not with the Kamarupa kingdom. Karnataka: Known in ancient times for dynasties like the Kadambas and later Chalukyas, and regions such as Banavasi and Kalyani, but not named Kamarup. Kerala: Associated with the Chera kingdom and the Malabar coast, not with Kamarup.

Common Pitfalls:
Because Kamarup is not as frequently mentioned as Magadha or Avanti in popular school texts, some students simply guess based on vague memory. Another confusion is between different north eastern names such as Kamarup, Pragjyotisha, and Tripura. A helpful way to remember is to picture Kamarup as the ancient political identity of the Brahmaputra valley, which is today largely covered by the state of Assam.

Final Answer:
Kamarup is the ancient name of the region that is now mainly the state of Assam.