With reference to the Mauryan society, consider the following statements: 1. Craftsmen in urban areas were often organised into guilds (srenis), and disputes among them were resolved by a mahasetthi. 2. Kautilya’s Arthashastra mentions taxation on livestock. 3. Women held important positions, including roles such as the King’s personal bodyguards, and had the right to divorce or remarry. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |ForumIAS

[A] 2 and 3 only

[B] 1 and 2 only

[C] 1 and 3 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

Notes:

Explanation:

Craftsmen were organized into guilds (srenis), each with a pamukha (leader) and jettha (elder), and disputes between guilds were resolved by a mahasetthi, ensuring smooth functioning.
Kautilya’s Arthashastra includes taxation of animals.
Women had the right to divorce and remarry, and some were even employed as royal bodyguards, indicating high status and freedom.

Source: NCERT and Ancient India – NCERT (R.S.Sharma)