Ashokan inscriptions suggest that the Pradeshika, Rajuka and Yukta were important officers at the
- village-level administration
- district-level administration
- provincial administration
- level of the central administration
Explanation
Option (b) is correct
- The empire was divided into four provinces. Each province was placed under a governor, usually a royal prince and was called Kumara. The Kumara was, in turn, assisted by Mahamatyas (Mahamatras during Asoka’s period) and a council of ministers. The provinces were divided into smaller units, and arrangements were made for both rural and urban administration.
- District administration: Pradesika, Rajuka and Yukta were officials at the district level. Their functions included surveying and assessing land, conducting tours and inspections, collecting revenue, and maintaining law and order.
- Pradesika’s position and functions were similar to those of a modern collector (overall in charge of the district). Rajukas were responsible for surveying and assessing land. Yuktas, or subordinate officials, assisted Rajukas.
- Urban Administration: There was a Municipal Board with 30 members in the urban area. Megasthenes refers to six committees of five Board members each to administer Pataliputra.
- Village Administration: Village administration was in the hands of Gramani, and his official superior was called Gopa, who was in charge of ten or fifteen villages.
- Major Rock Edict III: It mentions that Yuktas, Rajukas, and Pradesikas travelled to all parts of the kingdom every five years to spread the Dhamma policy. This edict was issued after 12 years of Asoka’s coronation.
