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U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2013

Mauryan Administration

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

'Sita' in Mauryan period means:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Mauryan state finance was highly structured, distinguishing between taxes from private lands and income from government-owned 'crown' lands.

Explanation Kautilya's Arthashastra mentions the 'Sitadhyaksha' (Superintendent of Agriculture) who managed the 'Sita' or the produce/revenue from the King's own lands.

Logical Breakup
Revenue from Crown Land (C): This is the precise technical meaning in the context of Mauryan economic administration.
Sita (Goddess): While it is a name for a goddess, in a historical MCQ about the 'period' or 'administration', the economic term is sought.

Active Recall

Question

What was the role of the Sitadhyaksha?

Answer

He was the officer responsible for the cultivation of crown lands using slaves, laborers, and prisoners to maximize state revenue.

Core Insight

The concept of 'Sita' shows that the Mauryan state was not just a tax collector but a direct and major participant in the agricultural economy.

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