The Ancient Indian Statecraft and Policies: A Re-visit to Kautilya’s Arthashastra and its Teachings

The political and administrative philosophy of Kautilya’s Arthashastra can be considered one of the most influential aspects that shaped the ancient Indian governance system. Composed in the 3rd century BCE during the rise of the Mauryan Empire, the text emerged in a period of political consolidation and administrative transformation under Chandragupta Maurya and his chief advisor, Kautilya, or fondly known as Chanakya. Far from being a non-Western philosophy on kingship, the Arthashastra presents a systematic framework for governance that integrates political authority, economic management, social welfare, and strategic diplomacy. The research article traces the historical background of this text, highlighting Kautilya’s role in shaping Mauryan imperial administration and establishing a centralized state structure guided by solutions based on ground realities. By analyzing the foundational concepts of the Kautilyan state, this research article attempts to consolidate the components of the Arthashastra, recognizing both political authority and institutional organization as pillars of a stable state. Additionally, the study explores the economic, welfare, and diplomatic policies. Arthashastra, as a book on public administration, also emphasizes welfare-oriented governance, a model followed by the contemporary governance system through the constitutional framework. By situating the Arthashastra within its historical and intellectual context, the article argues that the treatise represents a foundational contribution to indigenous political thought. Hence, the study addresses aspects such as ethical leadership, administrative accountability, and a strategic governance framework, which are considered essential for contemporary discussions on polity and public policy in a democratic state like India.