Public Administration – Arthashastra

Arthashastra is an Indian work that formally deals in politics, military strategy, social organisation, economics, and state function. It was developed by Kautilya, popularly known as Chanakya, who was an influential name in the establishment of the reign of Chandragupta Maurya (321-297 BCE), the founder of the Mauryan Empire (322-185 BCE). 

It is largely believed that Chanakya wrote the Arthashastra as a handbook for Chandragupta, which taught him about the different ways in which he could rule over his kingdom. Even though the Arthashastra played a crucial role in establishing a kingdom, mainstream experts of Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism rejected its calculating and unscrupulous teachings as they promoted dharma (right conduct) and ahimsa (non-injury). 

ARTHASHASTRA

Arthashastra Lessons

Although Chanakya wrote Arthashastra in the 4th century, it holds significant importance in the current, modern-day times. It is described as the art of governance and an instructor piece because of its instructional tone. Several lessons and learnings can be taken from the treatise. They are listed in the following points:

• People come first
• People in power must be accessible
• Hold people accountable for their work
• Do not delay decisions – Do the right thing at the right time

From the example of Chandragupta Maurya, it can be said that the treatise can be effective and very helpful in making world-class leaders who can ensure that the public is happy and satisfied to the greatest possible extent. According to the book, such leaders will have the ability, strength, and courage to make bold yet right decisions, thereby ensuring that all decisions are taken. 

Importance of Arthashastra

For the Indian government and India, as a country, the Kautilya Arthashastra is very important. Kautilya’s opinion about government servants is that they should be excited to actively help the government administer and carry out orders given to them. Kautilya Arthashastra states even today, every country distrust another. The pursuit of interest pursued by nations is still the same as in the era of Kautilya. Therefore, the teachings of Arthashastra still hold great importance. By learning about Arthashastra, public administrators or government servants and employees can better perform their duties and focus on ensuring that the country can achieve significant growth and development. 

Relevance of Arthashastra in 21st century

The Arthashastra, even though Kautilya wrote it in the 4th century, is still every bit relevant as it was back in the day. It is regarded as one of the most important pieces through which leaders and administrators can guide the country and the public in general and achieve growth and development. War is a constant part of the way countries operate. Since Arthashastra shows how a general can lead during the war, the treatise is still highly relevant. It can be a very effective means for the general to carry out their tasks and duties most effectively and efficiently. 

CONCLUSION

Chanakya wrote Arthashastra in the 4th century to guide the then king of the Maurya empire – Chandragupta Maurya, is still very relevant in modern times, as it was back in the day. Here a discussion about the importance and relevance of the Arthashastra was made, which showed that it is highly relevant and useful even today. It can guide leaders to be more effective. Further, here it can be learned that the Arthashastra can be a useful document guiding the leaders in managing their tasks and guiding them about the best possible ways to manage others to fulfil the common goals and targets.