Theory of Government in Ancient India (Post-Vedic) c14.s3.1

c14.s3.1

Nârada and Yâjñavalkya laid down some interesting rules of apprenticeship and work. Nârada treats them as part of the law on Breach of Contract of service and thus seeks to invest them with legal force. An apprentice shares the condition of dependence with students, hired servants and officials—all alike being looked upon as labourers. A young man who, with the consent of his relations wanted initiation into the art of his craft, should go to live with a master for a fixed term. The master should treat him like a son, feed him and teach him at his own house and refrain from employing him in any other work. An apprentice, who forsakes a master of unexceptionable character, may be compelled by force to return, and may be corporally punished and confined. He must remain with his master until the expiry of his term, even if he completes his course of instruction beforehand.