State and Government in Ancient India c15.193

c15.193

Of course the combination of an appreciative and wise king and a devoted and capable minister between whom there would never arise any misunderstanding and quarrel was an ideal one.⁵ But the ideal was more frequently approached in practice than we may be *prima facie* inclined to believe. The available evidence shows that the ministry usually exercised a wholesome influence upon the administration and though not constitutionally responsible to the people, sought to protect and promote their interests and welfare to the best of its ability.