Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c11.s2.t1.62

c11.s2.t1.62

The army is the next element of support and, in fact, of sovereignty. In the army, the elephant is the most important branch. Victories in war are, in reality, the victories of elephants. A single elephant can attack and withstand a thousand soldiers. The training of elephants must be carefully attended to. Untrained elephants are not only a burden on the exchequer but bring death and disaster to their own side. Elephants, duly trained, are particularly useful in siege, assault and bridging.² The cavalry is, *par excellence*, the mobile force. Its dexterity is as useful for defence, as for offence, in war. Nine different kinds of horses are mentioned.³ Chariots are used by bowmen who carry all before them. Once the charioteers have made a real attack the enemy is easily overpowered.⁴ In all warfare, the greatest reliance is to be placed on forces which are bound by ties of sentiment to the sovereign. Mercenaries are not of much use. Everywhere a soldier puts forth his best efforts not from prospects of monetary gain as for the honour expected from his master. All the same, a ruler should be careful and punctual in paying his forces. What is the use of a cloud which does not rain in time?⁵