Kautilya has mentioned the concept of Saptanga Rajya to understand the State with seven organs and one of them is Danda, which means:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Force.
In Kautilya's Saptanga Rajya concept, Danda means force.
In Kautilya’s ancient political theory of Saptanga Rajya, the state is understood as having seven essential elements: Swami (king), Amatya (ministers), Janapada (territory/people), Durga (fort), Kosha (treasury), Danda (force), and Mitra (ally). Among them, Danda refers to force—the state's power to enforce law, maintain internal order, and defend against external threats. It includes the military and the policing authority. Kautilya emphasized that a state without Danda is weak and vulnerable, as force is essential for justice, governance, and security. Thus, Danda plays a critical role in ensuring the sovereignty and stability of the state.
Other Options:
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Ministers: Referred to as Amatya in the Saptanga theory.
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Fort: Known as Durga in the theory.
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Ally: Referred to as Mitra in the Saptanga framework.