Mains Practice Questions

Approach

• Introduce the answer with mentioning the time period of Mauryan Empire
• Mention significance of the mauryan empire's administrative structure
• Conclude positively.

Introduction

The Mauryan Empire, which ruled over a vast territory in the Indian subcontinent from 322 BCE to 185 BCE, had a highly organized and efficient administrative structure that left a lasting impact on Indian governance.

Body

Significance of the Mauryan Empire's Administrative Structure:

• Central Administration of the Maurya Empire: The Mauryan Empire had a highly centralized administration with the king as the supreme leader, assisted by a council of ministers called 'Mantriparishad'. (Resembles Prime Minister and Cabinet)
• Provincial Administration: The empire was divided into provinces like Uttarapatha, Dakshinapatha etc., each with a capital city. (Like states/UTs)
  • Provinces were further split into districts (Ahara, Janapada) administered by Rajukas with Yuktas. (Like districts)
  • Districts comprised villages overseen by village heads and city superintendents for law & order. (Like panchayats, municipal bodies)
• Military Administration: The Mauryas maintained a vast, well-equipped professional army with infantry, cavalry, elephants, chariots and navy divisions. (Like Indian Armed Forces)
  • Senapati was the overall commander-in-chief of the military. (Like Chief of Defence Staff)
• Economic Administration: The Samharta was the chief revenue collector and Sannidhata the treasurer.
  • Taxes were levied on various sources like land, customs, irrigation, mines etc. (Like current tax system)
• Espionage System: They are credited with establishing an elaborate espionage system to maintain law and order and gather intelligence.
  • Special officers, known as "Gudhapurushas" or secret agents, were employed to monitor the activities of officials and the general public.
  • The R&AW Wing traces its origin to this.

Conclusion

The Mauryan Empire's administrative structure left an indelible mark on Indian governance and administration, serving as a blueprint for subsequent empires and kingdoms. Its legacy continues to resonate in modern India, shaping the country's governance philosophy and practices.