In the administrative hierarchy of the medieval Chola Empire, what was the primary function of the royal revenue department known as 'Puravuvari-Tinaikkalam'?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Puravuvari-Tinaikkalam served as the central land revenue department of the Chola empire, responsible for conducting systematic land surveys, assessing agricultural yields, and maintaining meticulous registries of tax-paying and tax-exempt holdings. This administrative apparatus ensured steady fiscal inflows required to maintain standing armies and monumental temple constructions. Customs and tolls were handled by separate mercantile departments. Land revenue formed the backbone of imperial finance.