Question

Describe governance in the Mauryan empire.

Answer 1

Hint:
> The Mauryan Empire, which formed around 321 B.C.E. and ended in 185 B.C.E.
> It was the first pan-Indian empire, an empire that covered most of the Indian region.
> It lasted central and northern India and parts of modern-day Iran as well.

Complete answer:
The Mauryan empire was the firsts, large, powerful, centralized state in India. The king was at the head of the centralized administrative system. He was accompanied by a council of ministers that was in charge of various ministries such as taxation, military, farming, judiciary, etc. The Mauryan Empire was divided into four provinces, each ruled by Kumara, who acted as a representative of the king. To defend the Mauryan Empire and instill stability and peace throughout the West and South Asia, Emperor Ashoka maintained a large standing army.

Governance in Mauryan Empire:
The capital of the Empire – The regions nearest to pataliputra, the Empire’s capital, were under the direct control of the emperor. In strict adherence to the ruler’s order, officials were expected to collect taxes from the inhabitants.

The Provincial capitals – Provinces with their own capitals were present, e.g. Taxila and Ujjain in the northwest and central India respectively. In Patliputra, there was clearly a certain amount of influence from the emperor: Royal princes were sent to governors.
Other areas – In the other area, the Mauryans controlled roads and rivers, which were crucial for transport. As a tribute, resources,whatever was available, were gathered.

Note:
> The Mauryan Empire was the largest empire in the whole of the ancient world.
> It was governed by a centralized form of government.
> The king of the Mauryan Empire was at the head of the administrative system.