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History • Ancient IndiaMedium

In the administrative vocabulary of the ancient Sangam polity, what specific function or political role was assigned to the official designated as 'Orrurar' or royal spies?

A. Gathering intelligence on internal security, foreign kingdoms, and administrative efficiency✓ Correct Answer
B. Supervising the collection of maritime customs duties at major port emporiums
C. Administering civil and criminal justice in village assemblies according to customary laws
D. Commanding the royal infantry divisions during military expeditions against rival dynasties

💡 Solution & Explanation

During the Sangam period the royal intelligence network played a vital role in statecraft where spies designated as Orrurar gathered information regarding internal stability and hostile designs of neighboring kings. Other choices describe separate functional departments such as customs officers at ports or military commanders who operated under distinct administrative titles mentioned in classical Tamil literature. Sangam kings relied heavily on these intelligence reports to maintain sovereignty over their respective territories.

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