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R.A.S./R.T.S. (Re. Exam) (Pre) 2013

Evolution of Administration

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which one of the following officials was not a part of the Mauryan administration?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept Distinguishing between officials of the centralized Mauryan bureaucracy (3rd century BCE) and the land-grant officials of the Gupta/Post-Gupta period (4th-6th century CE).

Explanation Mauryan edicts mention Yuktas (subordinate officers), Pradeshikas (provincial heads), and Rajjukas (district judges/surveyors). Agraharika is a later term related to the supervision of 'Agraharas' (tax-free land grants to Brahmins).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Agraharika (A) belongs to the Gupta and Early Medieval periods when feudal land grants became widespread.
Logic 2: Yukta, Pradeshika, and Rajjuka are the core administrative trio mentioned in Ashoka's Major Rock Edict III.

Active Recall

Question

What was the main duty of the Rajjukas under Ashoka?

Answer

Initially land-surveyors, Ashoka gave them judicial authority to ensure uniform justice and welfare among the rural population (Janapada).

Core Insight

The shift from officials like Rajjukas (paid in cash by the Mauryas) to Agraharikas (managing land grants) signals the move toward feudalism in ancient India.

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