تدوین و مشتملات ارتھ شاستر

Abstract

This paper describes that the Kautiliya Athashastra is the oldest and most exhaustive   treatise on the governance and administration of a state. Starting with the bringing up and education of the young prince, it proceeds to the appointment of ministers and the organization and functioning of various state departments, including the setting up of a secret service. It then sets forth a code of civil and criminal law. In the matter of foreign relations, it puts before the ruler the idea of a "Vijigisu" (would be world conqueror) and discusses in great detail the various situations he may have to face in his dealing with foreign states, whether  friendly or inimical , and points out how he should conduct himself in every case so as to achieve his goal.