Which ancient Indian ruler is best known for establishing a highly centralized administrative system?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Chandragupta Maurya.
Chandragupta Maurya: As the founder of the Mauryan Empire, he built a highly centralized and efficient administrative system, extensively described in Kautilya’s Arthashastra. It featured a vast bureaucracy, organized revenue collection, a strong intelligence network, and provincial administrations directly accountable to Pataliputra, the capital.
Other Options:
- Ashoka: Though he strengthened and utilized this system to promote Dhamma (moral governance), the structure itself was created by his grandfather, Chandragupta.
- Samudragupta: The Gupta administration was more decentralized, resembling a feudal setup with greater autonomy to regional rulers.
- Harshavardhana: His rule also reflected feudal traits and lacked the strong centralization of the Mauryan system.