[Solved] Meaning of 'Sita' in Mauryan Era | Revenue Term

'Sita' in Mauryan period means:

[U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2013]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

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

Authentic Source Evidence

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

Analytical Breakdown

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.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What was the role of the Sitadhyaksha?"

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

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"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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