Chandragupta Maurya and His Times c13.8

c13.8

This is certainly a most creditable anticipation in that age of the work of the Red Cross Society which is as essential for the efficiency of the army as any of its four arms. The reference of Megasthenes to grooms, mechanists and grass-cutters is also supported by Kauṭilya who states that ‘the captain with his retinue comprising mechanists (*vardhaki sthapati*) and labourers (*vishṭi*) should march in advance, preparing the path beforehand, digging wells of water [X. 1]’ and that ‘supplies of grass, firewood and water should be previously known’ [X. 2,] and “food-stuffs and provisions should be carried in double the quantity that may be required in any emergency” [X. 2]. Finally, Kauṭilya also mentions trumpets, flags and ensigns [X. 6].