In the context of Gupta dynasty's urban administration, which of the following statements about the Adhisthanadhikarana is correct?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. It was a Board of Advisors representing guilds, artisans, and scribes.
During the Gupta period, the Adhisthanadhikarana (District Administration Board) represented a unique decentralized urban governance model. As evidenced by the Damodarpur copper plates, this board assisted the Vishayapati (District Head) and consisted of four key non-official representatives: the Nagarasreshthi (Chief Banker/Guild President), Sarthavaha (Chief Trader), Prathama-kulika (Chief Artisan), and Prathama-kayastha (Chief Scribe). This reflects the high degree of involvement of professional classes and mercantile guilds in the day-to-day administration and land transactions of the empire.