Who was responsible to look after forts and also known as Head of Royal Fort in the Maurya empire?

Explanation / व्याख्या:

In the Maurya Empire (मौर्य साम्राज्य), forts (किले) were crucial for defense and administration. The person responsible for looking after forts and maintaining their security and administration was called Durgapala (दुर्गपाल).

• Durgapala acted as the head of the royal fort, overseeing troops, fortifications, supplies, and defense strategies.

• The Maurya administration was highly organized, and the empire had specific officers for every function, ensuring smooth governance.

• Other officials:

  • Samsthadhyaksha – Superintendent of an institution or office.

  • Annapala – Officer responsible for provisioning and food supply.

  • Rajjukas – Officials in charge of revenue collection.

Extra Fact / अतिरिक्त तथ्य:

• The Maurya Empire, founded by Chandragupta Maurya, had a well-structured bureaucracy, divided into several departments for military, revenue, trade, and justice.

• Durgapalas played a key role during wars, as forts were strategically important for defense and controlling territories.

• Famous forts under the Mauryas included those in Pataliputra (modern Patna), Ujjain, and Taxila.