Mantriparishad

The Mantriparishad was the council of ministers that was part of the administrative system of the Maurya Empire in Ancient India.

The Mantriparishad was formed during the reign of the First Mauryan Emperor Chandragupta Maurya on the basis of Kautilyas Arthashastra. The Mantriparishad was a small council of few ministers, smaller than the larger assembly of ministers or Mantrinomantriparisadamca. It was led by a Chief Minister or Mahamantri.It was an inner council and close advisory body to the Emperor. The consultations with the Emperor were held privately, often secretly. This was done because Kautilya realized that that is the best way to ensure confidentiality and frankness in their advice.

The Mauryan Empire was divided into 4 provinces. Each province had a viceroy (Aryaputra) and his own Mantriparishad.

References

• Thapar, Romila, "Ashoka and the Decline of the Mauryas", Oxford University Press, 1960

See also

• Mauryan Empire