Question

Describe in brief the ‘Saptang’ principle of a state, as described in Arthashastra written by Kautilya.

Answer 1

Kautilya, in the Arthashastra, suggests that the state must always be adequately fortified, its armed forces prepared and resourced to defend itself against acts of war.

Answer 2

‘Saptang’ by Kautilya:

Arthashastra is a book of politics and statecraft written by Kautilya. This book gives a rational approach for governing people called Saptang.

This approach has seven elements for governance. This is an approach for democratic monarchy.

The seven elements include

• Swami (The Ruler)
• Amatya (The Minister)
• Janapada (The Population)
• Durga (The Fortified Capital)
• Kosha (The Treasury)
• Danda (The Army)
• Mitra (Ally and Friend)