Q. Ashokan inscriptions suggest that the ‘Pradeshika’, ‘Rajuka’ and ‘Yukta’ were important officers at the
(a) village-level administration
(b) district-level administration
(c) provincial administration
(d) level of the central administration
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Answer & Explanation:
✅Correct Answer: (b) district-level administration
Explanation:
The Mauryan Empire under Emperor Ashoka had a well-structured and hierarchical administrative system, which is evident from the edicts and inscriptions he left across the subcontinent. Among the officials mentioned in Ashokan inscriptions are Pradeshika, Rajuka, and Yukta—each with distinct administrative roles primarily at the district level.
1. Pradeshika
The Pradeshika was an official similar to a modern-day district collector or magistrate. He was responsible for revenue collection, law and order, and implementation of royal edicts within a region (district). Ashoka’s inscriptions mention that these officials toured their areas every five years to monitor public welfare and administrative efficiency.
2. Rajuka
Rajukas were responsible for judicial and administrative functions, especially in rural and district areas. They had the authority to issue punishments and settle disputes, making them crucial in local governance and justice delivery. Ashoka vested them with more power as part of his Dhamma (moral) policy to promote righteousness and welfare.
3. Yukta
Yuktas were clerical and executive officers involved in record-keeping, correspondence, and maintaining official registers. They worked under higher-level officers like Pradeshikas and Rajukas and helped ensure the smooth functioning of the district administration.
Conclusion:
All three officials—Pradeshika, Rajuka, and Yukta—were not central nor strictly village-level, but were instead key functionaries at the district level of administration. Ashoka’s inscriptions show that he relied on these officers to propagate his policies, maintain law and order, and care for his subjects’ welfare across the empire.