Ancient Indian Education (Brahmanical and Buddhist) c18.207

c18.207

Metallurgical industries were controlled by the Department of Mines under its Chief called *Ākarādhyaksha*. He must be proficient in *Śulbadhātuśāstra*, the science dealing with copper and other minerals; in the art of distillation and condensation of mercury and of testing gems (*Rasapāka-maṇirāgajña*). He should be assisted by a staff of experts in mineralogy, mining labourers, and equipped with necessary apparatus (*upakaraṇasampanna*). Mining operations are described, including chemical processes for extracting the metal out of ores by removing their impurities. Mining was a monopoly of the State, as also trade in metallic goods. No one could engage in Mining without a licence. Theft of mineral products was severely punished. Mines which produced minerals used in making utensils of general use, as also mines which required a large capital for their working were leased out to private parties who paid a fixed rent and a share in the profits (*bhāgena prakrayeṇa vā*). But Government reserved to itself the working of Mines which did not require much outlay.