In the context of the Mauryan administrative machinery as detailed in the Arthashastra, which of the following officials was primarily entrusted with the collection of land revenue across the empire?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Samaharta was the chief collector of revenue in the Mauryan administration responsible for supervising receipts from various departments including tolls, mines, forests, and land tax. The Sannidhata served as the chief treasurer and custodian of the royal storehouse and treasury. The Pradeshtri functioned as a magistrate and police commissioner responsible for suppressing criminals in rural tracts. The Vyavaharika was a judge presiding over civil tribunals.