Studies in Ancient Hindu Polity (Based on the Arthashastra of Kautilya), Vol. I c6.2

c6.2

WE have in the previous chapter dealt with some of the public works of utility as described in the Arthaśāstra. We have seen how a special department existed for the development of mining, the impetus to the discovery of mines being given in the shape of a share in the mines discovered;¹ and how the department was placed under the charge of experts conversant with all the processes of that difficult industry. We have also seen how the promotion of irrigation was looked upon as one of the duties of the State and was not left to the meagre resources of private enterprise. In connexion with irrigation, we have also seen how the necessity of meteorological observations was recognized, and even simple contrivances were in use for purposes of rain-gauge (वर्षमानम् उपकरणम्).