Q. With respect to the administrative structure of the monarchical Mahajanapadas, consider the following statements:
1.The primary tax on agricultural produce, known as bhaga, was generally fixed at one-sixth of the total yield.
2.The king’s authority was absolute, and he was not assisted by any advisory councils like Sabha or Parishad.
3.Officials known as Balisadhakas were appointed specifically to collect the voluntary offerings (Bali) which later became a compulsory tax.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: B
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. The crop tax, called bhaga (a share), was indeed the most significant tax and was usually fixed at one-sixth ($1/6$) of the produce.
- Statement 2: Incorrect. While the king held significant power, he was typically assisted by various ministers (Mahamatras or Amatyas) and advisory councils such as the Sabha and Parishad, though their power declined compared to the early Vedic period.
- Statement 3: Correct. The term Bali evolved from a voluntary offering in the Vedic period to a compulsory tax during the Mahajanapada period. The officials responsible for collecting this tax were called Balisadhakas.
