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Q61 (CDS-II/2008) History & Culture › Ancient India › Mauryan empire polity Answer Verified

The ‘Arthasastra’ is a treatise on which one of the following ?

Result
Your answer: —  ·  Correct: C
Explanation

The 'Arthashastra', traditionally attributed to Kautilya (Chanakya), is a seminal ancient Indian treatise primarily focused on statecraft, political strategy, and governance [c2][c3]. While the title literally translates to 'the science of wealth' and includes extensive details on economic policy, taxation, and resource management [t2][t3], its core purpose is to serve as a comprehensive manual for a ruler on how to acquire and maintain power, structure a state, and conduct diplomacy and war [c4][t1]. It is distinguished from religious texts like the Manusmriti by its focus on secular governance and practical, realistic politics rather than spiritual guidance [t1]. The text outlines a sophisticated administrative framework and political philosophy, emphasizing 'artha' (material success/state prosperity) as a fundamental pillar of a stable society [t1][t5]. Therefore, it is best described as a treatise on political philosophy and statecraft.

Sources

  1. [1] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 5: Evolution of Society in South India > Literary > p. 64
  2. [2] History , class XI (Tamilnadu state board 2024 ed.) > Chapter 4: Emergence of State and Empire > Chandragupta > p. 51
  3. [3] Exploring Society:India and Beyond. Social Science-Class VI . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 11: Grassroots Democracy — Part 2: Local Government in Rural Areas > LET'S EXPLORE > p. 170
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