The Early History of the Deccan (Parts I–XI) v1.c10.s2.17

v1.c10.s2.17

The Rāṣṭrapati was at the head of the administration of the *rāṣṭra*, which was usually equal to four or five modern districts. He was in charge of both the military and the civil administration. He had to maintain peace and order and keep a watchful eye on lesser feudatories and officers. If the former became refractory, they were to be immediately dealt with by a punitive expedition.⁵ Naturally the Rāṣṭrapati had a sufficient military force under his command and was usually himself a military officer. Very often he used to enjoy the status and titles of a vassal.