Here are some potential UPSC Mains questions focusing on the Mauryan Empire:
- Discuss the political and administrative organization of the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya, highlighting its central features and administrative innovations.
- Analyze the role of Chanakya (Kautilya) in the rise of the Mauryan Empire, focusing on his political philosophy, statecraft, and contribution to the Arthashastra.
- Critically evaluate the socio-economic policies of Emperor Ashoka, with a focus on his Dhamma policy, patronage of Buddhism, and welfare measures for his subjects.
- Assess the significance of Emperor Ashoka’s inscriptions (Rock Edicts and Pillar Edicts) in understanding the governance, religious policies, and ethical principles of the Mauryan Empire.
- Discuss the Mauryan state’s approach to foreign relations and diplomacy, with specific reference to Chandragupta Maurya’s alliance with Seleucus Nicator and Ashoka’s missionary activities.
- Examine the impact of Ashoka’s conversion to Buddhism on the spread of the religion within and beyond the Indian subcontinent, and its implications for Mauryan society.
- Critically evaluate the economic policies and agrarian reforms of the Mauryan Empire, including land revenue administration, trade, and infrastructure development.
- Discuss the architectural and artistic achievements of the Mauryan period, focusing on the construction of monumental structures such as the Pillars of Ashoka and the Mauryan capital at Pataliputra.
- Assess the decline of the Mauryan Empire, considering factors such as succession disputes, administrative challenges, and external invasions.
- Analyze the enduring legacy of the Mauryan Empire in shaping the political, cultural, and administrative landscape of ancient India, and its significance in Indian history.
These questions cover various aspects of the Mauryan Empire, including its political structure, administration, economy, religion, and cultural contributions, and require candidates to demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the period and its significance in Indian history.