Local Self-Governance in Medieval India

Special Features of Chola Administration | Village Autonomy

The most special feature of Chola administration was its highly developed and autonomous village-level self-government system.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VII - Our Pasts II

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Which of the following was special feature of Chola administration:

[U.P.P.C.S. Pre 1995]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


The Chola administrative model was highly decentralized at the grassroots level, providing a level of democratic local governance that was far ahead of its time.

Authentic Source Evidence


The Uttaramerur Inscriptions provide a detailed blueprint of how Chola villages functioned independently through the Ur (general assembly) and the Sabha (Brahmin assembly).

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Option B is the most unique and significant feature. Villages had their own committees to manage water, justice, and temples.

  • Logic 2: While the empire was divided into 'Mandalams', this was a common administrative practice; the degree of village self-rule, however, was unparalleled.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "How were Chola village committees formed?"

    They were formed by a lottery system where names were written on palm leaves and drawn from a pot.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "Chola village autonomy represents the earliest and most sophisticated form of decentralized rural governance in Indian history."

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