Pratyaksha as perception term – UGC NET Question

Pratyaksha is the Nyaya term for perceptual knowledge arising from appropriate contact of the senses with external objects. It is considered immediate and non-inferential, forming a basic foundation for other cognitions. Nyaya distinguishes ordinary and extraordinary kinds of such perception. Thus the direct sense-based knowledge described in the stem is called pratyaksha.

Option A:
Option A, anumana, is inference that moves from a perceived sign to an unperceived probandum through recognised concomitance. It is mediate and conceptual rather than immediate sensory contact. Hence it does not suit the description.

Option B:
Option B is correct because pratyaksha literally means perception and is defined in Nyaya as knowledge produced by sense-object contact free from defects and doubt. The stem clearly points to this direct sensory origin.

Option C:
Option C, upamana, is comparison-based knowledge where an unknown object is understood by likening it to a known one. It does not require direct contact with the object itself.

Option D:
Option D, sabda, refers to verbal testimony as a pramana, where knowledge comes from trustworthy words or scriptures rather than from the senses acting on objects.