The Mauryan Polity c13.s12.85

c13.s12.85

That the military men gave themselves up to idleness and amusement in times of peace is no exaggeration either of Arrian or Megasthenes for the matter of that.¹ It is obvious that Megasthenes is referring to the hereditary army which was dependent for its existence on the state. In times of peace the soldiers composing this constituent did not take to any other profession and earn their livelihood. War or no war they had their regular and fixed salary, and in times of peace they could lead a free life and enjoy life in their homes and family.² The only call during this period on their time was drill, for, without constant drilling the army might lose its efficiency. This is certainly not the case with the other kinds of armies—such as the hired, the corporation of soldiers, the army of an ally, and the army of wild tribes.³ These were recruited if necessary, on the eve of certain engagements for the time being. When the work was over they were disbanded. They had perhaps to take to their old professions and earn their living. Megasthenes was not concerned with them. He knew of the Kṣatriya hereditary force and referred to it.