MasteryExams
History • Ancient IndiaMedium

In the context of the Mauryan administration, the official designated as 'Samaharta' was primarily responsible for which of the following?

A. Maintenance of royal treasury and collection of revenue✓ Correct Answer
B. Chief judicial administration and settling civil disputes
C. Commanding the armed forces and border security
D. Supervision of trade routes and weights and measures

💡 Solution & Explanation

Under the centralized administrative framework detailed in Kautilya's Arthashastra, the official designated as Samaharta was primarily entrusted with the responsibility of revenue collection and maintaining the royal treasury accounts. Other officials handled distinct administrative branches, such as judicial administration or border security, while the Sannidhata served as the chief custodian of the state stores and treasury. This complex bureaucratic apparatus was foundational to the administrative success of the Mauryan Empire.

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