Oxford Solutions for ICSE Class 6 History Civics Chapter 10 The Mauryan Administration

Keywords

1. Mantri parishad: It was the council of ministers who assisted the king.
This was a group of expert advisors who helped the monarch make important decisions about the law and the welfare of the people. They were essential for managing such a vast and complex empire efficiently.
Teacher's Tip: Think of "Mantri" as a "Minister" and "Parishad" as a "Council."
Exam Tip: Mention that they "assisted the king" to show their primary function in the government.

2. Kumaras: They were the princes of the royal family who were put in charge of important provinces.
These royal governors acted as the king's representatives in distant parts of the kingdom to maintain control. They were often sent to regions like Taxila or Ujjain to gain experience in leadership.
Teacher's Tip: Remember that "Kumara" is a traditional term for a young prince.
Exam Tip: Clearly state that they were members of the "royal family" to distinguish them from other officials.

3. Grama: It means village. StupasThey are solid, semicircular, dome-shaped Buddhist ; structures which have some relics of Buddha at their base.
The village was the smallest unit of administration where local matters were handled by a headman. Stupas were built as sacred monuments to honor the Buddha and were centers for meditation and prayer.
Teacher's Tip: Think of a Stupa as a giant "Upside-down Bowl" shape.
Exam Tip: Mention that "relics of Buddha" were kept at the base of a stupa for a complete answer.

4. Viharas: were Buddhist monasteries.
These were living quarters built for monks so they could stay in one place during the rainy season to study and pray. Over time, these monasteries also became important centers for education and learning.
Teacher's Tip: Viharas were like "Residential Schools" for Buddhist monks.
Exam Tip: Define them simply as "Buddhist monasteries" to secure quick marks.

5. Dharma chakras: are the wheels, carved on Ashoka’s Pillar at Samath. The wheel, representing motion and progress, is seen on the Indian national flag.
This symbol represents the "Wheel of Law" and is a reminder of Ashoka's commitment to peace and righteousness. Its presence on the modern Indian flag shows the lasting impact of Mauryan history on our country.
Teacher's Tip: The wheel on the flag has 24 spokes, representing progress throughout the day.
Exam Tip: Note the location "Sarnath" (spelled Samath in text) to show geographical accuracy.

Exercises

A. Fill in the blanks:

Question 1: The king had supreme power. He was advised by the mantri parished.
Answer: supreme, mantri parished.
While the king was the absolute head of the empire, he relied on his ministers to provide wisdom and carry out his orders. This ensured that the government functioned effectively across all its territories.
Teacher's Tip: "Supreme" means the highest possible authority.
Exam Tip: Be careful with the textbook's spelling of "parished" when writing your answer.

Question 2: The provinces were divided into a number of districts which were further subdivided into nagaras and gramas.
Answer: districts.
This hierarchical structure allowed the central government in Pataliputra to manage even the smallest villages. By breaking the land into districts, the king's officials could collect taxes and maintain order more easily.
Teacher's Tip: Think of the division like a modern state: State -> Districts -> Cities -> Villages.
Exam Tip: List "districts" as the intermediate level between provinces and smaller units.

Question 3: The capital city of Pataliputra was looked after by six committees. Each committee consisted of five members.
Answer: six, five.
This system of 30 total members ensured that every aspect of city life, from trade to sanitation, was carefully monitored. It shows how advanced and organized the Mauryan municipal administration really was.
Teacher's Tip: Remember the math: 6 committees x 5 people = 30 total administrators.
Exam Tip: Be sure to memorize both specific numbers (6 and 5) for full marks.

Question 4: The lion capital was adopted as the emblem of India in the year 1950.
Answer: emblem, 1950.
The four lions standing back-to-back symbolize power, courage, pride, and confidence. It was officially chosen when India became a republic to honor our ancient heritage.
Teacher's Tip: The date 1950 is when India's constitution came into effect.
Exam Tip: Use the word "emblem" to describe the official status of the lion capital.

Question 5: The last Mauryan emperor was killed by Pushyamitra Sunga the founder of the Sunga dynasty.
Answer: Sunga.
This event marked the end of the Mauryan rule and the beginning of a new period in Indian history. Pushyamitra Sunga was actually the commander-in-chief of the Mauryan army before he took over.
Teacher's Tip: The "Sunga" dynasty replaced the "Mauryan" dynasty.
Exam Tip: Spell the name "Sunga" correctly to ensure you don't lose simple marks.

B. Match the following:

Question : Match the items in Column A with Column B.
Column A
1. Mantri parishad
2. Kumaras
3. Stupas
4. Viharas
5. Dharma chakra
Column B
(a) national flag
(b) monasteries
(c) royal family
(d) council of ministers
(e) dome-shaped
Answer:
1. Mantri parishad - (d) council of ministers
2. Kumaras - (c) royal family
3. Stupas - (e) dome-shaped
4. Viharas - (b) monasteries
5. Dharma chakra - (a) national flag
These matches link administrative terms, architectural features, and modern symbols to their correct ancient Mauryan origins. Understanding these pairs helps build a complete picture of how the empire functioned and its lasting legacy.
Teacher's Tip: Link "Vihara" to "Stay" (monastery) and "Stupa" to "Shape" (dome).
Exam Tip: When matching, write the full text for both columns to avoid any confusion for the examiner.

C. Choose the correct answer:

Question 1: The Mauyran empire was divided into provinces/districs/ nagaras which were placed under the control of kumaras.
Answer: The Mauyran empire was divided into provinces which were placed under the control of kumaras.
Provinces were the largest administrative units, and placing princes in charge of them kept the power within the royal family. This system helped maintain loyalty to the central capital of Pataliputra.
Teacher's Tip: Think of Provinces as the biggest "slices" of the empire pie.
Exam Tip: Always associate "Kumaras" with "provinces" in your answers.

Question 2: Mauryan art was greatly influenced by Hinduism/ Buddhism/Taoism.
Answer: Mauryan art was greatly influenced by Buddhism.
After Ashoka converted to Buddhism, he used art and architecture to spread the religion's message of peace. This resulted in the creation of thousands of stupas and beautifully carved pillars across India.
Teacher's Tip: Ashoka's conversion is the main reason for the Buddhist influence.
Exam Tip: Choose "Buddhism" as the primary influence for art during this period.

Question 3: The most famous Ashoka Pillar is at Sarnath/Sanchi/ Pataliputra.
Answer: The most famous Ashoka Pillar is at Sarnath.
This pillar features the exquisite Lion Capital that eventually became India's national emblem. It was built at the site where Buddha gave his first sermon to celebrate the "Wheel of Dharma."
Teacher's Tip: Sarnath is famous for the "Pillar" and the "Lions."
Exam Tip: Don't confuse Sanchi (famous for the Stupa) with Sarnath (famous for the Pillar).

Question 4: The Mauryans had trade relations with Sri Lanka/ China/Mesopotamia.
Answer: The Mauryans had trade relations with Sri Lanka.
Trade and religious missions frequently traveled between India and Sri Lanka, especially during Ashoka's reign. This exchange helped spread both goods and the philosophy of Buddhism to the island nation.
Teacher's Tip: Remember Ashoka's children went to Sri Lanka, proving the strong link.
Exam Tip: Identify "Sri Lanka" as the primary international contact mentioned in your textbook.

Question 5: The last Mauryan ruler was Chandragupta Maurya/ Brihadratha/Ashoka.
Answer: The last Mauryan ruler was Brihadratha.
He was the final king of the dynasty before it was overthrown by his own military commander. His death brought an end to over a century of Mauryan dominance in India.
Teacher's Tip: Chandragupta was the first, and Brihadratha was the last.
Exam Tip: "Brihadratha" is the specific name of the final ruler to memorize.

D. State whether the following are true or false.

Question 1: The Mauryan administration was based on the guidelines laid down in the Indika.
Answer: False.
Correct: The Mauryan administration was based on the guidelines laid down in the Arthashastra.
The Arthashastra was a detailed political manual written by Chanakya, the king's advisor. While Indika was a traveler's account, Arthashastra was the actual rulebook used by the government.
Teacher's Tip: "Arth" = Wealth/Politics; "Shastra" = Book of Knowledge.
Exam Tip: If the statement is false, you must provide the "Correct" version to get full marks.

Question 2: There was no spy system in the Mauryan empire.
Answer: False.
Correct: There was spy system in the Mauryan empire.
The king used a vast network of spies to stay informed about what people and officials were doing throughout the kingdom. This "secret service" helped prevent rebellions and kept the empire secure.
Teacher's Tip: Spies were the "Eyes and Ears" of the Mauryan king.
Exam Tip: Mention the existence of the spy system as proof of a strong administration.

Question 3: Pataliputra was a magnificent walled city.
Answer: True.
Historical records describe the capital as having massive wooden walls with many gates and towers for defense. It was considered one of the most advanced and beautiful cities of the ancient world.
Teacher's Tip: Pataliputra is modern-day Patna.
Exam Tip: High praise from Greek travelers like Megasthenes proves this statement is True.

Question 4: The relics of Buddha were kept at the base of the stupa.
Answer: True.
Sacred items like a piece of hair, bone, or a tooth of the Buddha were placed in a box at the center of the stupa's foundation. This made the stupa a holy place of worship for Buddhist followers.
Teacher's Tip: Relics are like "Spiritual Treasures" hidden inside the building.
Exam Tip: This is a key architectural fact about stupas that is frequently tested.

Question 5: The chief occupation of the people during the Mauryan period was mining.
Answer: False.
Correct: The chief occupation of the people during the Mauryan period was agriculture.
While mining was important for getting iron for weapons, most people spent their days farming the land. Agriculture was the backbone of the economy and provided the food for the entire empire.
Teacher's Tip: In almost every ancient civilization, "Agriculture" is the #1 job.
Exam Tip: Always identify farming/agriculture as the "chief occupation."

E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:

Question 1: What was the role of the mantri parishad in the Mauryan administration?
Answer: Mantri parishad was the council of ministers who assisted the king.
They were responsible for handling daily administrative tasks and offering expert opinions on political matters. The king frequently consulted them before passing new laws or going to war.
Teacher's Tip: The council was like the "Brain Trust" of the kingdom.
Exam Tip: Use the word "assisted" to accurately describe their relationship with the king.

Question 2: Name the capital city of the Mauryan empire.
Answer: The capital city of the Mauryan empire was Pataliputra.
This city was strategically located near the junction of major rivers, which made it a hub for trade and transport. It was the political and cultural heart of the entire Mauryan dynasty.
Teacher's Tip: Pataliputra is the ancient version of the city Patna.
Exam Tip: Be sure to memorize the spelling "Pataliputra" correctly.

Question 3: Mention two important features of stupas built during the Mauryan period.
Answer: They are solid, semicircular, dome-shaped Buddhist structures which were made of stone and bricks, They have some relics of Buddha at their base.
The use of durable materials like stone ensured that these monuments would last for thousands of years as symbols of faith. Their unique dome shape was designed to represent the burial mounds of ancient holy men.
Teacher's Tip: Remember: 1. Dome-shaped, 2. Relics at base.
Exam Tip: Listing "stone and bricks" shows you know what they were constructed from.

Question 4: Which Buddhist stupa is an outstanding specimen of Mauryan architecture?
Answer: The stupa of Sanchi is an outstanding specimen of Mauryan architecture.
This massive monument is famous for its intricate gateways and beautifully preserved dome. It remains one of India's most important historical and religious heritage sites today.
Teacher's Tip: Sanchi = The "Superstar Stupa."
Exam Tip: Always identify Sanchi when asked for a "specimen" of Mauryan architecture.

Question 5: Which Mauryan sculpture was adopted as India’s national emblem is 1950?
Answer: The lion capital was adopted as the national emblem of India in 1950.
This sculpture features four lions facing different directions to show that the message of dharma spreads everywhere. It is a powerful symbol of Indian identity found on all our currency and official papers.
Teacher's Tip: You can see this emblem on every Rupee note in your pocket.
Exam Tip: Mention the year "1950" to show complete historical understanding.

Question 6: Name any two foreign countries with whom the Mauryans had trade relations.
Answer: Mauryans had trade relations with Sri Lanka, Egypt and Greece.
They traded valuable items like spices, textiles, and precious stones with these distant lands. These relations were not just for business but also helped in the exchange of cultural and religious ideas.
Teacher's Tip: "G.E.S." - Greece, Egypt, Sri Lanka.
Exam Tip: Naming any two from this list will fulfill the question's requirement.

F. Answer the following questions briefly:

Question 1: Mention the main features of Mauryan administration with reference to (i) committees and (it) spy system.
Answer:
1. Committees: There were six committees, each consisting of five members. Each committee was incharge of a particular department such as industries, registration of births and deaths, care of foreigners, and trade and commerce. These 30 members also looked after common problems related to health, sanitation, education, etc.
2. Spy system: The king had an elaborate spy system which kept him informed about his viceroys and officials as well as what was going on inside and outside his kingdom.
The committees ensured that city life was managed in an orderly way, covering everything from hospitals to business deals. The spy system was the king's way of preventing trouble and making sure his officials remained honest.
Teacher's Tip: Committees = City Management; Spies = Kingdom Security.
Exam Tip: List at least three specific departments handled by committees to show detailed knowledge.

Question 2: Describe the distinctive features of Ashokan pillars.
Answer: Monolithic pillars, inscribed with the edicts of Ashoka, are the best examples of the remarkable skill and quality of Mauryan artists. The surface of the stone pillars were highly polished. The pillar at Samath is the most famous. The lion capital of this pillar is the most magnificent piece of sculpture of the Mauryan period.
Each pillar was carved from a single giant piece of stone, making them "monolithic." The polish was so perfect that even after 2,000 years, they still have a glass-like shine that amazes modern scientists.
Teacher's Tip: "Monolithic" means "One Single Stone."
Exam Tip: Mention the "high polish" as it is a unique artistic feature of these pillars.

Question 3: Give an account of the economic conditions under the Mauryan rulers.
Answer: The Mauryan rulers had unified the country and brought peace and stability. These favourable conditions promoted the growth of the economy and made the empire rich and prosperous. Agriculture was the main occupation of the people. Farmers were encouraged to bring more land under cultivation. Irrigation facilities were provided to them. Land revenue was collected from the farmers and it was the chief source of income for the king.
By building canals and roads, the government made it easier for farmers to grow food and for merchants to sell it. The wealth from taxes was used to pay for a massive army and to build beautiful public monuments.
Teacher's Tip: Peace + Irrigation = More Food and More Wealth.
Exam Tip: Identify "agriculture" as the main occupation and "land revenue" as the king's main income.

Question 4: What were the causes for the decline of the Mauryan empire?
Answer: These were following reasons for decline of Mauryan empire.
1. Ashoka’s successors were weak and inefficient.
2. The empire was too vast and it was not easy to control the far-flung territories.
3. In the absence of a strong central authority, the provincial viceroys declared themselves independent.
4. The expense of maintaining a large standing army and an elaborate administrative system was a heavy drain on the state treasury.
After Ashoka died, there were no strong leaders to keep the huge kingdom together, and the money eventually ran out. Local governors took advantage of this weakness to break away and start their own kingdoms.
Teacher's Tip: A giant empire needs "Strong Leaders" and "Plenty of Money" to survive.
Exam Tip: List at least three distinct causes to provide a comprehensive answer.

G. Picture study.

Question 1: Identify the monuments.
Answer: The Buddhist stupa at Sanchi, in Madhya Pradesh.
This monument is one of the oldest stone structures in India and is protected as a world heritage site. It serves as a beautiful reminder of the era when Buddhism flourished under the Mauryan kings.
Teacher's Tip: If you see a giant brick dome with gates, it's the Sanchi Stupa.
Exam Tip: Be sure to mention the state "Madhya Pradesh" to show full geographical knowledge.

Question 2: Describe its important features.
Answer: Mauryan art was greatly influenced by Buddhism. Ashoka is supposed to have built 84,000 stupas throughout the kingdom. Stupas are solid, semicircular, dome-like structures made of stones and bricks. Relics of Buddha, such as his hair, tooth, etc., were kept at the base of the stupa. The stupa of Sanchi is an outstanding specimen of Mauryan architecture.
The stupa represents the Buddha sitting in meditation, and its circular path was meant for pilgrims to walk around while praying. The detailed carvings on the gateways tell stories from the Buddha's various lives.
Teacher's Tip: Remember: 84,000 stupas, dome shape, and relics at the base.
Exam Tip: Use the phrase "outstanding specimen" to describe its artistic importance.

Question 3: In which century and by whom was it built ?
Answer: The Great Stupa at Sanchi was built by the emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and is one of the finest examples of Mauryan architecture.
It was commissioned by Ashoka to spread the faith and provide a place of pilgrimage for thousands of followers. Over the next few centuries, other rulers added the ornate gateways and railings that we see today.
Teacher's Tip: Ashoka + 3rd Century BCE = The "Origin" of Sanchi.
Exam Tip: Include both the "Emperor Ashoka" and the "3rd Century BCE" for a perfect score.

OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Question 1: How many committees were set up for the administration of Pataliputra? Name any three departments that were looked after by these committees.
Answer: Six committees were set up for the adminstration for Patliputra.
1. Sanitation
2. Trade and commerce
3. Public utility were three departments that were looked after by these committees.
These committees worked together to keep the capital running like a modern city, making sure it was clean and safe for all citizens. This specialized management is why Pataliputra was so famous in ancient times.
Teacher's Tip: Remember the total was 30 people divided into groups of 5.
Exam Tip: List the departments clearly in a numbered format for better presentation.

Question 2: Mention two important features of each of the following: 1. Monolithic pillars 2. Lion capital.
Answer:
1. Monolithic pillars- Mautryas built many Monolithic pillars, inscribed with the edicts of Ashoka. They are the best examples of the remarkable skill and quality of Mauryan artists. The surfaces of the stone pillars were highly polished. The Pillar at Samath is the most famous.
2. Lion capital- The lion capital of the pillar is the most magnificent piece of sculpture of the Mauryan period. The lion capital was adopted as the national emblem of India in 1950. A picture of the lion capital can be seen on Indian currency notes.
These structures are symbols of both artistic genius and royal power, representing the message of "Dharma." They are carved so perfectly that they look as if they were made of metal or glass rather than stone.
Teacher's Tip: "Monolithic" = One stone; "Capital" = The decorative top of the pillar.
Exam Tip: Link the "Lion Capital" to "Indian currency notes" to show its modern relevance.

Question 3: Mention three important occupations of the people during the Mauryan period.
Answer: Agriculture was main occupation of the people. Other occupations included mining, forestry and carpentry during the Mauryan Period.
The growth of a huge empire required diverse skills, from making metal weapons in mines to building massive wooden palaces. However, providing food through farming remained the most vital job for the entire population.
Teacher's Tip: Agriculture is always #1, but don't forget the "Builders" (carpentry) and "Makers" (mining).
Exam Tip: List all three to provide a complete and satisfactory answer.