Studies in Ancient Hindu Polity (Based on the Arthashastra of Kautilya), Vol. I c3.74

c3.74

Before I conclude, I should not pass over one other matter of importance in this connexion, viz. the striking correspondence between parts or passages of the *Arthaśāstra* and the accounts of India traced to Megasthenes relating to the period of Chandra Gupta. Such correspondence of the *Arthaśāstra* with a definitely dated document is no doubt of great help in fixing its age. A close study of both will show that the Book of *Arthaśāstra* entitled जनपदनिवेश gives a full view of Indian administration of which only a partial view can be obtained from the observations of Megasthenes [Frag. xxxiv]. This may be indicated as follows :—