Which of the following texts lays down minute details of the administrative and military organization during the Mauryan empire?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 4 i.e. Arthashastra.
- Arthashastra is a text which lays down the minute details of the administrative and military organization during the Mauryan empire.
- It is written by Kautilya (also known as Chanakya or Vishnugupta), the chief advisor and prime minister of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan Empire.
- It is a comprehensive treatise on statecraft, administration, economics, and military strategy.
Other Options:
- Bṛhat Saṃhitā: It is a text on astrology, astronomy, natural sciences, architecture, and cultural knowledge. It was written by Indian astrologer-astronomer Varāhamihira, who lived in or around Ujjain.
- Nītisāra: It is an ancient Indian treatise on political science and statecraft. It was authored by Kamandaka, a disciple of Chanakya.
- Shulba Sutra: They are sutra texts belonging to the Śrauta ritual and containing geometry related to fire-altar construction. They are among the earliest known texts to describe geometry in India.