Hindu Administrative Institutions c9.s1.54

c9.s1.54

Under the control of this department was again the ocean and river traffic. Fishermen were allowed to go fishing in these waters, and for this they were required to furnish a licensing fee which amounted to one-sixth of the value of their haul. Customs were collected in port-towns from ships touching their shores, though favour was shown in the case of weather-beaten ships. Again there were boats and other accessories in both navigable and small rivers. Fording these, or taking goods through them was only by previous permission. Śrotriyas, ascetics, children, the aged, royal messengers and pregnant women were allowed to cross free. This is one of the numerous references to show that the Kauṭalīya is often swayed by humane considerations. Others were to ford with passes previously obtained.² To obtain them perhaps a small fee was paid. The ferry-men were to remit their daily incomes to the superintendent. There were both water-routes and land-routes as well as routes for coastal traffic (कूलपथ). There is again evidence of commercial intercourse with China and Ceylon.³ Baudhāyana lays down a duty of ten per cent. in general on all goods imported by sea.