Administrative System of the Marathas c23.s13.38

c23.s13.38

6. "Weights and measures" formed one of those imposts that, as we have seen from an extract quoted above, came under the head of the forts in Mauryan days. Kautilya explains the nature of this tax while recounting the duties of the goldsmith in the high road. "Weighing balance and counterweights shall be purchased from the superintendent in charge of them. Otherwise a fine of twelve Panas shall be imposed."³⁴ The standard balance and weight are described at length in the chapter dealing with the office of the superintendent of weights and measures,³⁵ where we further find that "The Superintendent shall charge 4 mashas for stamping weights or measures. A fine of 27¼ panas shall be imposed for using unstamped weights or measures.