Upamana as comparison pramana – UGC NET Question

Upamana is recognised in Nyaya as a distinct pramana in which knowledge arises by comparing an unfamiliar object with a known one based on a description of similarity. For example, learning what a gavaya is by comparing it to a cow one already knows involves upamana. This process relies on grasping relevant likenesses rather than direct perception or inference from a sign. Hence the comparison-based source of knowledge described in the stem is called upamana.

Option A:
Option A is correct because upamana literally points to “knowing through similarity,” and Nyaya explicitly lists it as separate from perception, inference and verbal testimony. It captures a common way in which people identify new things by reference to familiar ones.

Option B:
Option B, anumana, is inference based on a sign and its invariable concomitance with the probandum, such as inferring fire from smoke. It does not operate primarily through comparison of similarities.

Option C:
Option C, pratyaksha, is direct perception arising from contact between sense organs and objects, not mediated by comparison with previously known cases.

Option D:
Option D, sabda, is verbal testimony, particularly the words of reliable persons or scriptures, where knowledge comes from trusted reports rather than from recognising similarity.