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| Harsha's Administration: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation |
Harsha's Administration: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Harsha's administration, while drawing inspiration from the Gupta model, incorporated unique features and innovations. Hiuen Tsang's account provides valuable insights into the structure and functioning of Harsha's government.
Key Features of Harsha's Administration
Just and Efficient Rule: Harsha was known for his just and efficient administration. He personally oversaw the affairs of his kingdom, making frequent inspection visits to various regions.
Light Taxation: Harsha implemented a relatively light taxation system, reducing the burden on his subjects. Forced labor was also rare, unlike the oppressive practices of the Mauryan period.
Land Tax: The land tax was set at a reasonable rate, with one-sixth of the produce collected as revenue.
Cruel Punishments: While Harsha's administration was generally just, he retained some of the cruel punishments used during the Mauryan period. Hiuen Tsang criticized these practices as barbarous and superstitious.
Military Strength: Harsha's army was formidable, consisting of the traditional four divisions: foot soldiers, cavalry, chariots, and elephants. The number of cavalry troops exceeded one lakh, and there were over sixty thousand elephants. This military strength surpassed that of the Mauryan army.
Public Records: A distinctive feature of Harsha's administration was the maintenance of public records. The archive, known as "nilopitu," was managed by specialized officers. This system ensured the documentation of significant events, both positive and negative.
Conclusion
Harsha's administration demonstrated a blend of tradition and innovation. While he retained certain aspects of the Gupta administrative system, he also implemented reforms to improve efficiency and reduce the burden on his subjects. His emphasis on just governance and his efforts to maintain public records contributed to the stability and prosperity of his kingdom.
