With reference to forced labour (Vishti) in India during the Gupta period, which one of the following statements is correct?

1. Vishti (or Visti) refers to forced labour prevalent in India during the Gupta period and other times. 2. It was often extracted by the State or local authorities for public works (like road construction, maintenance of irrigation systems) or services. 3. As it involved unpaid labour exacted from the populace, it essentially functioned as a non-monetary tax or a source of income/resource for the State. Option (A) correctly describes this aspect. 4. Option (B) is incorrect; inscriptions and records indicate the presence of Vishti in various parts of the Gupta Empire, including central India (Madhya Pradesh region) and western India (Kathiawar region). 5. Option (C) is incorrect; the defining characteristic of forced labour is that it is unpaid or minimally compensated, not entitled to regular wages. 6. Option (D) is incorrect; there is no specific evidence suggesting a strict rule that only the eldest son was liable for Vishti. The obligation likely fell upon the household or community.