Evolution of Administration
Agraharika: Why it wasn't part of Mauryan Admin
The official 'Agraharika' was not part of Mauryan administration; it appeared later during the Gupta period to manage land grants.
Primary Reference: NCERT Class 11 - Ancient India (R.S. Sharma)
Archived:
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Exam Year
2013
Evidence Source
Link ↗Which one of the following officials was not a part of the Mauryan administration?
[R.A.S./R.T.S. (Re. Exam) (Pre) 2013]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
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).
Authentic Source Evidence
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).
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"What was the main duty of the Rajjukas under Ashoka?"
Initially land-surveyors, Ashoka gave them judicial authority to ensure uniform justice and welfare among the rural population (Janapada).
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"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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