Which one of the following statements is not correct about Ashoka and Mauryas?

Key Points

• Option 3 is incorrect because Pativedaka and Pulasani were not responsible for the maintenance of Treasury and accounts in Mauryan administration. These terms are not mentioned in Mauryan administrative sources.
• The Mauryan Empire had an elaborate administrative system, and the Treasury (Kosha) was maintained by high-ranking officials such as Samaharta (Chief Revenue Officer).
• The Mauryan administration was highly centralized, with the emperor at the top, followed by a structured hierarchy of officials, but "Pativedaka" and "Pulasani" are not documented as part of this system.

Additional Information

• Option 1: Dhamma-Mahamatras
  • Dhamma-Mahamatras were a cadre of officials created by Ashoka to propagate his policy of Dhamma (righteousness).
  • They were tasked with promoting welfare policies, religious tolerance, and ethical conduct among the people, as seen in Ashoka's edicts.
• Option 2: District-level Officers
  • According to Mauryan administrative sources, the Pradeshika, Rajuka, and Yukta were important district-level officers.
  • Pradeshika was responsible for provincial administration, Rajuka for land revenue and justice, and Yukta for secretarial and accounting tasks.
• Option 4: Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa
  • Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa are ancient Buddhist chronicles from Sri Lanka.
  • According to these texts, Ashoka killed 99 of his brothers to secure the throne, although this account might be exaggerated. The actual historical basis for this claim is debated.
• Important Terms:
  • Dhamma: Ashoka's policy to create a peaceful and harmonious society by promoting ethical values, tolerance, and welfare.
  • Samaharta: The Chief Revenue Officer in the Mauryan Empire, responsible for the collection of taxes and maintenance of the Treasury.