Administrative Hierarchy in Kautilya's Arthashastra and Its Relevance to Modern India

Abstract: This study examines the administrative hierarchy in Kautilya’s Arthashastra and evaluates its relevance to modern Indian governance. The ancient text outlines a highly organized system defined by functional specialization, strict discipline, and clear lines of authority among the king, ministers, and local officials. By tracing India's administrative evolution through the medieval, colonial, and post-independence eras, the paper highlights how core principles—such as merit-based recruitment, fiscal responsibility, and welfare orientation—endure today, despite the shift from monarchy to a democratic, constitutional framework. Adopting a qualitative, comparative approach, the paper argues that the Arthashastra is not merely a historical relic. Instead, it serves as a vital indigenous intellectual resource that enriches contemporary debates on bureaucratic efficiency, accountability, and public administration in India.