B. Rajjukas were provincial-level officers in the Mauryan administration responsible for justice, land surveying, and rural governance.

A. Traders in the Chola Kingdom

C. Feudal Lords in the Gupta empire

[Solved] Who were the Rajjukas in Mauryan Administration?

Rajjukas were:

[U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 1996]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Mauryan administration was highly bureaucratic, with specialized officers for land measurement, justice, and rural welfare.

Authentic Source Evidence

Mentioned in Asoka's Major Rock Edicts III and IV, the Rajjukas (literally 'rope-holders') were provincial officers responsible for land measurement and judicial administration.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: They were initially land-surveying officials but Asoka granted them independent judicial powers to award rewards and punishments to ensure uniform justice.

Logic 2: They acted as a bridge between the central government and the rural population (Janapada).

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Why was the name 'Rajjuka' associated with a rope?"

The term is derived from 'Rajju' (rope), signifying their original duty of measuring land for revenue assessment.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The evolution of Rajjukas from surveyors to judicial officers illustrates the increasing centralization and welfare focus of the Asokan state."

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