Governance and Military Administration during Harsha’s Rule

Harsha, an emperor of ancient India, ruled with a governance model akin to the Guptas but with a shift towards feudalism and decentralization. Revenue was collected through land and cash taxes, while land grants were made for state affairs, rewarding officials, supporting scholars, and charitable purposes. Harsha’s era also witnessed stricter criminal laws and the presence of officials like the Mimamsakas for dispensing justice.

Harsha’s Reign: Governance and Military Strategy in Ancient India

A. Administrative Structure and Revenue System

• Evolution of Governance: Harsha governed on the same lines as the Guptas, though it became more feudal and decentralised.
• Mantri Parishad: The Emperor was aided by a council of ministers . Key Officials were:

• Revenue Administration: According to Hiuen Tsang, the traders had to pay duties at ferries and barrier stations. [UPSC 2013]. Three types of taxes were collected:

• • • Bhaga (land tax in kind, which was one-sixth of produce).
    • Hiranya (cash tax from farmers and merchants).
    • Bali (not well-documented).
  • Land Grants: to officials seem to have started during Harsha’s rule. Crown land/revenue was divided into four parts: 
    • Part I: for carrying out the affairs of the state.
    • Part II: for paying the ministers and officers of the crown.
    • Part III: for rewarding men of letters.
    • Part IV: for charity to religious institutions.

• Judicial Administration: Harsha’s time saw stricter criminal laws than the Gupta era. 

• • • Legal System and Punishments: Punishments included banishment, limb cutting, trial by ordeal and life imprisonment (given for violations of the laws and for plotting against the king).
    • Mimamsakas: These officials were appointed to dispense justice.

• Observations of Hieun Tsang : Though he was robbed, law and order seemed perfect due to strong law enforcement.[UPSC 2013]

• • Buddhist Influence on Penal System: Principal penalties included corporal punishment for serious offenses though it was avoided because of Buddhism’s influence.
  • Maiming: as punishment for offences against social morality and defiance of law.

B. Administrative Divisions

• Bhuktis: The empire was divided into multiple provinces, each province further split into Bhuktis. 
  • Vishayas: Each Bhukti was divided into several Vishayas. 
  • Each Vishaya was further divided into Pathakas. 
• Harsha Charita: mentions officials like Bhogapathi, Ayuktha, Pratpalaka-purusha, etc., overseeing local administration.
• Cities and Towns: According to Hieun Tsang, India was the land of innumerable villages, numerous towns and big cities, and Pataliputra lost its prominence, and its place was taken by Kanauj.

• • Charitable Initiatives: like free hospitals, caring for the sick and poor, and rest houses (Dharamshala) for travellers were also established by Harsha.

• Army: Hieun Tsang mentions the four divisions (chaturanga) of Harsha’s army. He gives details about the strength of each division, its recruitment system and payment for the recruits.

• • Chatas and Bhatas: were ordinary soldiers.
  • Brihadisvaras: were Cavalry officers.
  • Baladhikritas and Mahabaladhikritas: were the infantry officers.

Conclusion

Following Harsha’s death, his kingdom fragmented swiftly into smaller states. His governance structure, revenue system, and judicial administration showcased a blend of continuity with Gupta traditions and adaptation to changing socio-political dynamics. Moreover, his patronage of Buddhism, establishment of charitable institutions, and military organization left a lasting impact on Indian society and culture.

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