Q. What was the main feature of Maurya dynasty in India?
(a) Education was widespread
(b) Terrorists were driven out of Sind and Punjab
(c) Removal of land tax for the first time
(d) Decentralisation of administration
Ans: (d) Decentralisation of administration
Explanation: The main feature of the Maurya dynasty in India was (d) Decentralization of administration.
Under the Maurya dynasty, which was ruled by Emperor Chandragupta Maurya and later by Emperor Ashoka, there was a significant emphasis on the decentralization of administration. The Mauryan empire was vast and diverse, spanning a large part of the Indian subcontinent. To effectively govern such a large empire, the Mauryas implemented a system of dividing their empire into provinces or regions, each with its own administrative officials.
The Mauryas appointed governors or administrators known as “Mahamatras” to oversee the provinces and maintain law and order. These administrators had significant autonomy and were responsible for the day-to-day administration of their respective regions. They collected taxes, dispensed justice, and ensured the smooth functioning of the administration at the local level.
While education was encouraged and widespread during the Maurya dynasty, it was not the main feature that distinguished their rule. Similarly, driving out terrorists from Sind and Punjab and the removal of land tax for the first time were not specific main features associated with the Maurya dynasty.
Therefore, the correct answer is (d) Decentralization of administration.
