Central Government Mauryan administration was highly centralized. The Emperor was the supreme power and source of all authority. He was assisted by a Council of Ministers. It was called ‘Mantriparishad’. The ministers were called ‘Mantris.’ The council was headed by ‘mantriparishad-adhyakshya’ akin to the Prime Minister of today. Tirthas: the Highest category of officials in the administration. There were 18 Tirthas. Adhyakshya: Ranked next only to Tirthas. There were 20 Adhyakshyas. They had economic and military functions. Mahamattas: Higher ranking officials. Amatyas: High ranking officials almost like present-day secretaries. They had administrative and judicial roles. The Adhyakshyas were formed into a secretariat, which was divided into many departments. Arthashastra mentions many Adhyakshyas for commerce, storehouses, gold, ships, agriculture, cows, horses, city, chariots, mint, infantry, etc. Yuktas: Subordinate officers responsible for the Empire’s revenue. Rajjukas: Officers ...
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