OVERVIEW
In this topic, we will discuss the seven significant elements of Kautilya’s Saptang theory. This theory outlines mainly the seven essential state elements i.e. ruler, ministers, people, fort, treasury, army, and allies.
KAUTILYA’S SAPTANG THEORY
Kautilya’s Saptang theory also known as the seven limbs of the state is an ancient concept about a well-governed state. It suggests the seven important elements of a state with good governance.
These seven essential elements are:-
- Swami (ruler)– Swami is the leader of the state who systematizes the state and takes action for the welfare of the state and its people. He holds all the responsibility of the state.
- Amatya (ministers) – Amatya are the ministers or advisers who help the king manage their kingdom’s affairs and help the king in making decisions.
- Janapada (people) – Janapadas are the common people who live within the kingdom boundary.
- Durga (fortified capital) – Durga is the administrative center of the kingdom and it serves as a capital. It is a very strong central city of the state which is full of security.
- Kosa (treasure) – Kosa is the financial resource of the kingdom. It includes tax collected from the people of the state and public funds etc.
- Danda (military and law enforcement) – danda is the force that helps in maintaining the orders of the kingdom. It protects from external threats.
- Mitra (friends and allies)– it is the strategic alliance of the kingdom with other states for security and financial benefit.
CONCLUSION
Kautilya’s Saptang theory suggests the importance of the seven essential elements that are important for a state’s stability and prosperity. All the seven elements work together for a strong and secure status of the state. Through this, we get to know about the need for a leader, minister, state’s people, secure capital, precious treasure, loyal and hardworking military, and network of allies.