RAS question
According to the Arthashastra, the Saptanga theory describes:
Correct answer: (A) Seven elements of the state.
According to the Arthashastra, the Saptanga theory describes the seven constituent elements of the state.
Explanation
The Saptanga theory in the Arthashastra is a theory of the state, not a list of forts, taxes, or battlefield arrangements. The cited eGyanKosh unit explains that Kautilya presents Saptanga Rajya as a system of seven interrelated constituent limbs or elements of the state. These are Swami, the king; Amatya, the ministers; Janapada, the territory and its people; Durga, a fortified capital; Kosha, the treasury; Danda, justice or force; and Mitra, an ally. The point of the theory is structural: by dividing the state into these seven constituents, one can assess the strength or weakness of each part. Therefore, the phrase refers to the seven elements of state power and administration.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Durga is only one of the seven state elements in the Saptanga scheme, so the theory cannot be reduced to seven types of forts.
- (C) Danda in the list refers to justice or force, but the Saptanga theory as a whole is about state constituents, not seven military formations.
- (D) Kosha, the treasury, is one element of the state, but the theory does not classify seven types of taxes.
Concept
This tests ancient Indian political thought and Mauryan statecraft through the Arthashastra's core terminology. It recurs in RAS-style history questions because candidates must distinguish broad concepts of state structure from narrower military, fiscal, or administrative terms.