In the given question, a statement of Assertion is followed by a statement of Reason. Mark the correct answer.

Assertion: Traders gave a small amount to the Paharias.
Reason: Traders needed permission to use the passes controlled by them (Paharias).

Both the Assertion and the Reason are correct and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

The Paharias regularly raided the plains where settled agriculturists lived. These raids were necessary for survival, particularly in years of scarcity; they were a way of asserting power over settled communities, and they were a means of negotiating political relations with outsiders. The zamindars on the plains had to often purchase peace by paying a regular tribute to the hill chiefs. Traders similarly gave a small amount to the hill folk for permission to use the passes controlled by them. Once the toll was paid, the Paharia chiefs protected the traders, ensuring that their goods were not plundered by anyone.