Revenue System of the Mauryan Period

During the Mauryan period, the revenue system played a crucial role in the economic administration of the empire. The Mauryan rulers implemented various forms of revenue collection to meet the financial requirements of the state. Among these revenue items, the tax on special classes of crops, known as "Hiranya," was paid in cash.

Explanation:
The Mauryan Empire, under the reign of Emperor Chandragupta Maurya, had a well-organized revenue system. The revenue was collected through various sources, including land taxes, extra imposts, and special taxes. Let's take a closer look at each of these revenue items:

1. Bhaga (Land Tax):
- Bhaga was a form of land tax levied on agricultural produce.
- It was collected from the cultivators in the form of a share of the total produce.
- The share collected varied from one-fourth to one-sixth of the total produce.

2. Bali (Extra Impost on Special Tracts):
- Bali was an additional tax imposed on specific tracts of land.
- These tracts were considered more fertile or productive than others.
- The extra impost was levied to exploit the potential of these tracts and generate additional revenue for the state.

3. Kara (Special Harsh Tax):
- Kara was a special tax imposed on goods and commodities.
- It was collected from traders and merchants who engaged in commercial activities.
- The tax rate was usually high, and it was considered a harsh form of revenue collection.

4. Hiranya (Tax on Special Classes of Crops):
- Hiranya was a tax levied on specific classes of crops.
- Unlike the other revenue items mentioned above, Hiranya was paid in cash.
- The tax was collected directly from the cultivators, who had to pay a fixed amount of money as per the prescribed rates.

Conclusion:
Among the various revenue items of the Mauryan period, the tax on special classes of crops, known as "Hiranya," was paid in cash. This form of revenue collection helped the Mauryan Empire meet its financial requirements and maintain a stable economy.