Mauryan Administration MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Mauryan Administration - Download Free PDF

The Correct answer is Village.

Key Points

• The Village was the smallest administrative unit in the Mauryan Empire, which ruled a significant part of ancient India during the reign of Emperor Ashoka.
• Villages were governed by Gramika or village headmen, who played a crucial role in local administration.
• The Mauryan administration was highly centralized, but it also relied on local governance to manage the vast empire efficiently.
• Villages were the primary centers of agricultural production, which formed the backbone of the Mauryan economy.
• The administration in villages focused on collecting taxes, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the welfare of the residents.
• The village units were also integrated into a larger network of administrative divisions, including districts, towns, and provinces.
• The Mauryan Empire implemented a sophisticated system of governance, with a clear hierarchy extending from the central government to the smallest administrative units like villages.
• The concept of village administration laid the foundation for future governance structures in Indian history.

 Additional Information

• Province
  • Provinces were the largest administrative divisions in the Mauryan Empire.
  • Each province was governed by a provincial governor, often appointed directly by the emperor.
  • Provinces were responsible for implementing the emperor's policies and overseeing the administration of smaller units like districts and villages.
  • Major provinces included Tosali, Ujjain, Taxila, and Suvarnagiri.
• Town
  • Towns were urban centers that played a vital role in trade, administration, and cultural activities.
  • They were governed by officials known as Nagaradhyaksha or city administrators.
  • Towns were hubs for artisans, merchants, and traders, contributing significantly to the Mauryan economy.
  • Prominent towns included Pataliputra (capital), Taxila, and Ujjain.
• District
  • Districts were intermediate administrative units that comprised multiple villages and towns.
  • They were governed by officials called Rajukas, who were responsible for revenue collection and judicial functions.
  • Districts served as a link between the provincial administration and the village-level governance.
  • The district administration ensured the efficient implementation of policies and maintained law and order.

The correct answer is Hiranya.

Key Points

• Hiranya was a form of tax paid in cash during the Mauryan period, as opposed to taxes paid in kind (such as agricultural produce).
• It was generally imposed on land revenue and other taxable income sources in the form of precious metals, primarily gold or silver coins.
• The term "Hiranya" translates to "gold" in Sanskrit, indicating its monetary nature.
• This system of cash taxation reflects the advanced economic practices and monetization of the Mauryan Empire.
• Hiranya was especially significant in regions and communities where barter systems were transitioning towards cash-based economies.

Additional Information

• Kara: Refers to a tax levied on agricultural produce, typically collected in kind during the Mauryan period.
• Bali: Considered a religious offering or tribute paid to the king, often voluntary in earlier periods but formalized as a tax during later periods.
• Bhaga: A share of agricultural produce, usually one-sixth, collected as tax by the state from farmers.
• Taxation in Mauryan Empire: The Mauryan administration under rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka had a well-organized taxation system, crucial for maintaining the empire's vast bureaucracy, military, and infrastructure.
• Economic Prosperity: The Mauryan Empire's monetized economy, facilitated by taxes like Hiranya, played a significant role in trade, commerce, and urbanization across the Indian subcontinent.

The Correct answer is Prachyapatha (East) - Toshali

Key Points

• The provinces under the Mauryan dynasty were administratively divided to ensure effective governance. Each province was headed by a governor.
• Toshali, located in the eastern region, was a prominent province under the Mauryan Empire. It falls under the category of Prachyapatha (East).
• The Mauryan administration prioritized the division of territories based on their geographical significance and ensured proper governance through regional centers.
• Edicts of Ashoka discovered in Toshali indicate its importance as a provincial capital during the Mauryan era.
• Toshali played a crucial role in managing the eastern territories and facilitating trade and communication with neighboring regions.
• The Mauryan Empire was known for its efficient administrative system, with provinces being an integral part of its governance model.

Additional Information

• Dakshinapatha (South) - Ujjain
  • Ujjain was located in the western part of India and served as a key center for trade and administration.
  • It was an important city under the Mauryan dynasty but was not part of the southern province, Dakshinapatha.
  • Ujjain is traditionally associated with the Avantiratha (West).
• Uttarapatha (North) - Suvarnagiri
  • Suvarnagiri was known for its gold mines and was located in the southern region, not the northern province of Uttarapatha.
  • The northern province, Uttarapatha, was associated with regions like Taxila.
• Avantiratha (West) - Taxila
  • Taxila, a renowned center of learning and culture, was part of the northern province of Uttarapatha, not the western province Avantiratha.
  • Taxila was a significant city under Mauryan rule and played a key role in trade and education.

The correct answer is option 4.

Key Points

• Senapati was one of the highest-ranking officers in the Mauryan army, and they were paid 12,000 Pana per annum.
• Adhvakshas were responsible for overseeing various logistical and administrative functions, and they received a salary of 8,000 Pana per annum.
• Mukhvas were in charge of the communication and intelligence network within the army and were paid 4,000 Pana per annum.
• Nayka served as subordinate officers, and they earned 4,800 Pana per annum.
• The salary structure reflects the hierarchy and responsibilities within the Mauryan military system.
• The term Pana refers to an ancient Indian currency used during the Mauryan empire.

 Additional Information

• Senapati
  • The Senapati was a high-ranking military officer, often equivalent to a modern-day general.
  • The position involved strategic planning and leadership of military campaigns.
• Adhvakshas
  • Adhvakshas managed logistical support, such as supplies and transportation, crucial for maintaining the army's efficiency.
  • The role was administrative and required significant organizational skills.
• Mukhvas
  • Mukhvas were responsible for the army's intelligence and communications, ensuring effective coordination during campaigns.
  • The role was vital for gathering information and relaying orders.
• Nayka
  • Naykas were subordinate military officers who assisted higher-ranking officials in various capacities.
  • They played a significant role in executing orders and maintaining discipline within the ranks.

The correct answer is Celibacy.

Key Points

• Ashoka's Dhamma focused on promoting values such as non-violence, tolerance, and respect for all life.
• It was aimed at creating a moral and ethical society based on the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and compassion towards all living beings.
• Ashoka's Dhamma emphasized secularism and religious tolerance, encouraging respect for all religions and beliefs.
• It also included the political unification of his empire through the spread of these ethical and moral values, thus promoting peace and harmony.

Additional Information

• Ashoka's Dhamma:
  • Ashoka, the third emperor of the Maurya Dynasty, is renowned for his efforts to spread Dhamma (a set of moral and ethical guidelines) throughout his empire.
  • After the Kalinga War, Ashoka embraced Buddhism and dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Buddha.
  • He issued edicts inscribed on rocks and pillars across his empire, which communicated his Dhamma to his subjects.
• Ahimsa:
  • Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a fundamental principle in many Indian religions, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism.
  • It advocates for the avoidance of harm to any living being and promotes compassion and peaceful coexistence.
• Secularism:
  • Secularism refers to the principle of separating religion from the political and administrative functions of the state.
  • In the context of Ashoka's Dhamma, it meant promoting religious tolerance and respecting all faiths equally.
• Political Unification:
  • Political unification under Ashoka's rule involved consolidating various regions and cultures within the Mauryan Empire.
  • Through the promotion of his Dhamma, Ashoka aimed to create a cohesive and harmonious society.

The correct answer is Tax assessment.Key PointsThe Samaharta:

• The Samaharta was one of the most important executive officials in the Mauryan administration.
• His primary responsibility was to oversee the collection of taxes from all types of sources.
• Most of the superintendents, or adhayakshas, who were responsible for running various economic departments, functioned under his orders.
• He played a crucial role in the revenue system of the Mauryan empire.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Hiranya.

Key Points

• Hiranya was a form of tax paid in cash during the Mauryan period, as opposed to taxes paid in kind (such as agricultural produce).
• It was generally imposed on land revenue and other taxable income sources in the form of precious metals, primarily gold or silver coins.
• The term "Hiranya" translates to "gold" in Sanskrit, indicating its monetary nature.
• This system of cash taxation reflects the advanced economic practices and monetization of the Mauryan Empire.
• Hiranya was especially significant in regions and communities where barter systems were transitioning towards cash-based economies.

Additional Information

• Kara: Refers to a tax levied on agricultural produce, typically collected in kind during the Mauryan period.
• Bali: Considered a religious offering or tribute paid to the king, often voluntary in earlier periods but formalized as a tax during later periods.
• Bhaga: A share of agricultural produce, usually one-sixth, collected as tax by the state from farmers.
• Taxation in Mauryan Empire: The Mauryan administration under rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka had a well-organized taxation system, crucial for maintaining the empire's vast bureaucracy, military, and infrastructure.
• Economic Prosperity: The Mauryan Empire's monetized economy, facilitated by taxes like Hiranya, played a significant role in trade, commerce, and urbanization across the Indian subcontinent.

The Correct answer is Village.

Key Points

• The Village was the smallest administrative unit in the Mauryan Empire, which ruled a significant part of ancient India during the reign of Emperor Ashoka.
• Villages were governed by Gramika or village headmen, who played a crucial role in local administration.
• The Mauryan administration was highly centralized, but it also relied on local governance to manage the vast empire efficiently.
• Villages were the primary centers of agricultural production, which formed the backbone of the Mauryan economy.
• The administration in villages focused on collecting taxes, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the welfare of the residents.
• The village units were also integrated into a larger network of administrative divisions, including districts, towns, and provinces.
• The Mauryan Empire implemented a sophisticated system of governance, with a clear hierarchy extending from the central government to the smallest administrative units like villages.
• The concept of village administration laid the foundation for future governance structures in Indian history.

 Additional Information

• Province
  • Provinces were the largest administrative divisions in the Mauryan Empire.
  • Each province was governed by a provincial governor, often appointed directly by the emperor.
  • Provinces were responsible for implementing the emperor's policies and overseeing the administration of smaller units like districts and villages.
  • Major provinces included Tosali, Ujjain, Taxila, and Suvarnagiri.
• Town
  • Towns were urban centers that played a vital role in trade, administration, and cultural activities.
  • They were governed by officials known as Nagaradhyaksha or city administrators.
  • Towns were hubs for artisans, merchants, and traders, contributing significantly to the Mauryan economy.
  • Prominent towns included Pataliputra (capital), Taxila, and Ujjain.
• District
  • Districts were intermediate administrative units that comprised multiple villages and towns.
  • They were governed by officials called Rajukas, who were responsible for revenue collection and judicial functions.
  • Districts served as a link between the provincial administration and the village-level governance.
  • The district administration ensured the efficient implementation of policies and maintained law and order.

The correct answer is Tax assessment.Key PointsThe Samaharta:

• The Samaharta was one of the most important executive officials in the Mauryan administration.
• His primary responsibility was to oversee the collection of taxes from all types of sources.
• Most of the superintendents, or adhayakshas, who were responsible for running various economic departments, functioned under his orders.
• He played a crucial role in the revenue system of the Mauryan empire.

Additional Information

The correct answer is The Kalinga War.

Key Points

• The Kalinga War was fought between Emperor Ashoka of the Mauryan Empire and the state of Kalinga in 261 B.C.
• The war resulted in a massive loss of life and property, with thousands of soldiers and civilians perishing in the conflict.
• The brutality and bloodshed of the Kalinga War had a profound impact on Ashoka, leading him to embrace Buddhism.
• After the war, Ashoka renounced violence and adopted a policy of Dhamma (righteousness) to govern his empire, focusing on non-violence, compassion, and welfare of his subjects.
• This change in policy marked a significant transformation in Ashoka's reign, from conquest and expansion to peace and benevolence.

Additional Information

• Edicts of Ashoka:
  • Ashoka's inscriptions on pillars and rocks across his empire, known as the Edicts of Ashoka, proclaim his policies and principles of Dhamma.
  • These edicts emphasize moral and ethical conduct, non-violence, and respect for all life forms.
  • The edicts also promote social welfare programs, including the establishment of hospitals, rest houses, and educational institutions.
  • Major Rock Edict V: 
    • ​It mentions about the appointment of the officials Dhammamahamatras who were appointed and entrusted with the duty of spreading Dhamma within the kingdom.
  • Major Rock Edict VII:
    • ​It mentions about the tolerance towards religions among all sects and welfare measures for the public in his as well as his neighbouring kingdoms.
  • Major Rock Edict XI:
    • ​It mentions that Dhamma is the best policy to follow, which includes respect for elders and concern for slaves and servants.
• Buddhism and Ashoka:
  • After the Kalinga War, Ashoka became a devout follower of Buddhism and supported its spread throughout his empire and beyond.
  • He sent missionaries to various parts of Asia, including Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia, to propagate Buddhist teachings.
  • Ashoka convened the Third Buddhist Council at Pataliputra (modern-day Patna), which played a crucial role in the compilation and preservation of Buddhist scriptures.
• Legacy of Ashoka:
  • Ashoka is remembered as one of India's greatest emperors for his contributions to the spread of Buddhism and his efforts to govern based on principles of justice and morality.
  • His legacy continues to influence Indian culture and values, and he is revered as a model ruler in Indian history.
  • The symbol of the Ashoka Chakra, featured on the Indian national flag, is derived from the Lion Capital of Ashoka at Sarnath.

The correct answer is Kumara.

Key Points

• Under the Mauryan administration, the provincial administration was generally headed by a Kumara (Prince).
• The Kumara was usually a royal prince, often the king's own son, who was entrusted with governing a province.
• These provinces were known as 'Janapadas'.
• The appointment of Kumaras helped ensure loyalty and effective governance in the vast Mauryan Empire.

Additional Information

• Dandapala
  • Dandapala was an official responsible for the maintenance of law and order in the provinces.
  • He managed the police and ensured the enforcement of rules and regulations.
• Samaharta
  • Samaharta was in charge of revenue collection in the Mauryan administration.
  • He was responsible for assessing and collecting land revenue, trade taxes, and other dues.
• Prashasti
  • Prashasti refers to an inscription or eulogy written in praise of a ruler or a noble person.
  • These inscriptions were often composed by poets and scholars of the court.

The correct answer is Celibacy.

Key Points

• Ashoka's Dhamma focused on promoting values such as non-violence, tolerance, and respect for all life.
• It was aimed at creating a moral and ethical society based on the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and compassion towards all living beings.
• Ashoka's Dhamma emphasized secularism and religious tolerance, encouraging respect for all religions and beliefs.
• It also included the political unification of his empire through the spread of these ethical and moral values, thus promoting peace and harmony.

Additional Information

• Ashoka's Dhamma:
  • Ashoka, the third emperor of the Maurya Dynasty, is renowned for his efforts to spread Dhamma (a set of moral and ethical guidelines) throughout his empire.
  • After the Kalinga War, Ashoka embraced Buddhism and dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Buddha.
  • He issued edicts inscribed on rocks and pillars across his empire, which communicated his Dhamma to his subjects.
• Ahimsa:
  • Ahimsa, or non-violence, is a fundamental principle in many Indian religions, including Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism.
  • It advocates for the avoidance of harm to any living being and promotes compassion and peaceful coexistence.
• Secularism:
  • Secularism refers to the principle of separating religion from the political and administrative functions of the state.
  • In the context of Ashoka's Dhamma, it meant promoting religious tolerance and respecting all faiths equally.
• Political Unification:
  • Political unification under Ashoka's rule involved consolidating various regions and cultures within the Mauryan Empire.
  • Through the promotion of his Dhamma, Ashoka aimed to create a cohesive and harmonious society.

The correct answer is option 4.

Key Points

• Senapati was one of the highest-ranking officers in the Mauryan army, and they were paid 12,000 Pana per annum.
• Adhvakshas were responsible for overseeing various logistical and administrative functions, and they received a salary of 8,000 Pana per annum.
• Mukhvas were in charge of the communication and intelligence network within the army and were paid 4,000 Pana per annum.
• Nayka served as subordinate officers, and they earned 4,800 Pana per annum.
• The salary structure reflects the hierarchy and responsibilities within the Mauryan military system.
• The term Pana refers to an ancient Indian currency used during the Mauryan empire.

 Additional Information

• Senapati
  • The Senapati was a high-ranking military officer, often equivalent to a modern-day general.
  • The position involved strategic planning and leadership of military campaigns.
• Adhvakshas
  • Adhvakshas managed logistical support, such as supplies and transportation, crucial for maintaining the army's efficiency.
  • The role was administrative and required significant organizational skills.
• Mukhvas
  • Mukhvas were responsible for the army's intelligence and communications, ensuring effective coordination during campaigns.
  • The role was vital for gathering information and relaying orders.
• Nayka
  • Naykas were subordinate military officers who assisted higher-ranking officials in various capacities.
  • They played a significant role in executing orders and maintaining discipline within the ranks.

The correct answer is Hiranya.

Key Points

• Hiranya was a form of tax paid in cash during the Mauryan period, as opposed to taxes paid in kind (such as agricultural produce).
• It was generally imposed on land revenue and other taxable income sources in the form of precious metals, primarily gold or silver coins.
• The term "Hiranya" translates to "gold" in Sanskrit, indicating its monetary nature.
• This system of cash taxation reflects the advanced economic practices and monetization of the Mauryan Empire.
• Hiranya was especially significant in regions and communities where barter systems were transitioning towards cash-based economies.

Additional Information

• Kara: Refers to a tax levied on agricultural produce, typically collected in kind during the Mauryan period.
• Bali: Considered a religious offering or tribute paid to the king, often voluntary in earlier periods but formalized as a tax during later periods.
• Bhaga: A share of agricultural produce, usually one-sixth, collected as tax by the state from farmers.
• Taxation in Mauryan Empire: The Mauryan administration under rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka had a well-organized taxation system, crucial for maintaining the empire's vast bureaucracy, military, and infrastructure.
• Economic Prosperity: The Mauryan Empire's monetized economy, facilitated by taxes like Hiranya, played a significant role in trade, commerce, and urbanization across the Indian subcontinent.

The Correct answer is Village.

Key Points

• The Village was the smallest administrative unit in the Mauryan Empire, which ruled a significant part of ancient India during the reign of Emperor Ashoka.
• Villages were governed by Gramika or village headmen, who played a crucial role in local administration.
• The Mauryan administration was highly centralized, but it also relied on local governance to manage the vast empire efficiently.
• Villages were the primary centers of agricultural production, which formed the backbone of the Mauryan economy.
• The administration in villages focused on collecting taxes, maintaining law and order, and ensuring the welfare of the residents.
• The village units were also integrated into a larger network of administrative divisions, including districts, towns, and provinces.
• The Mauryan Empire implemented a sophisticated system of governance, with a clear hierarchy extending from the central government to the smallest administrative units like villages.
• The concept of village administration laid the foundation for future governance structures in Indian history.

 Additional Information

• Province
  • Provinces were the largest administrative divisions in the Mauryan Empire.
  • Each province was governed by a provincial governor, often appointed directly by the emperor.
  • Provinces were responsible for implementing the emperor's policies and overseeing the administration of smaller units like districts and villages.
  • Major provinces included Tosali, Ujjain, Taxila, and Suvarnagiri.
• Town
  • Towns were urban centers that played a vital role in trade, administration, and cultural activities.
  • They were governed by officials known as Nagaradhyaksha or city administrators.
  • Towns were hubs for artisans, merchants, and traders, contributing significantly to the Mauryan economy.
  • Prominent towns included Pataliputra (capital), Taxila, and Ujjain.
• District
  • Districts were intermediate administrative units that comprised multiple villages and towns.
  • They were governed by officials called Rajukas, who were responsible for revenue collection and judicial functions.
  • Districts served as a link between the provincial administration and the village-level governance.
  • The district administration ensured the efficient implementation of policies and maintained law and order.