Understanding the administrative structure of ancient Indian empires, particularly the Mauryan period as described in Kautilya's Arthashastra, is crucial for historical studies. Kautilya's Arthashastra provides intricate details about various aspects of governance, including the military administration. The administration was highly organized, with various departments headed by superintendents known as 'Adhyakshas'.

Kautilya's Arthashastra and Mauryan Military Administration

Kautilya's Arthashastra outlines a sophisticated military organization for the Mauryan Empire. The military was typically divided into different branches, each with its own set of officers and superintendents responsible for its maintenance, training, and deployment. These superintendents played a vital role in ensuring the efficiency and strength of the Mauryan army.

Identifying the Commanding Officer of Cavalry

The question specifically asks about the Commanding Officer of the cavalry. Let's examine the options provided, which are terms for different superintendents (Adhyakshas) mentioned in historical texts like the Arthashastra, and identify the one related to cavalry.

• Hastyadhyaksha: This term is derived from 'Hasti' (meaning elephant) and 'Adhyaksha' (meaning superintendent). The Hastyadhyaksha was the superintendent in charge of the elephant corps, which was a significant part of the Mauryan army.
• Ashwadhyaksha: This term comes from 'Ashwa' (meaning horse) and 'Adhyaksha'. The Ashwadhyaksha was the superintendent responsible for horses and cavalry. The cavalry was another critical component of the Mauryan military, used for speed, maneuverability, and flanking attacks.
• Rathadhyaksha: This term is formed from 'Ratha' (meaning chariot) and 'Adhyaksha'. The Rathadhyaksha was the superintendent overseeing the chariot division of the army.
• Patyadhyaksha: This term is derived from 'Patti' or 'Padati' (meaning foot soldier or infantry) and 'Adhyaksha'. The Patyadhyaksha was the superintendent in charge of the infantry, which usually formed the largest part of the army.

Based on the etymology of the terms and their common usage in historical contexts related to ancient Indian administration and military, the term directly associated with horses and thus cavalry is Ashwadhyaksha.

Therefore, according to Kautilya's Arthashastra, the Commanding Officer or superintendent of the cavalry in the Mauryan administration was known as the Ashwadhyaksha.

This table clearly shows the specific roles of different Adhyakshas within the Mauryan military and related departments as described in Kautilya's work.

Conclusion

In summary, Kautilya's Arthashastra details various administrative roles. The question asks specifically about the officer commanding the cavalry. By examining the terms provided, we find that Ashwadhyaksha is the title corresponding to the superintendent of horses or cavalry. This aligns with the structured military administration described in the Arthashastra.

Revision Table: Mauryan Military Adhyakshas

Additional Information: Kautilya's Arthashastra and Administration

Kautilya's Arthashastra is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. Written by Kautilya (also known as Chanakya or Vishnugupta), chief advisor to Emperor Chandragupta Maurya, it is a foundational text for understanding the administration of the Mauryan Empire.

The text describes a centralized administration with various departments headed by 'Adhyakshas'. These superintendents were responsible for managing everything from treasury and mines to agriculture, trade, and military divisions. The military section of the Arthashastra provides insights into the composition, training, logistics, and deployment of the Mauryan army, which included infantry, cavalry, chariots, and elephants. The detailed roles of Adhyakshas like the Ashwadhyaksha highlight the systematic approach to governance during the Mauryan period.