Answer: district-level administration
Notes: The correct answer is [B] district-level administration. These three officials are famously mentioned in the Major Rock Edict III of Ashoka, which instructed them to go on a tour of the empire every five years (Anusamyana) to spread the message of Dhamma.
- Pradeshika (Correct): He was the head of the district administration. His role was multifaceted, involving the collection of land revenue and the maintenance of law and order. He functioned similarly to a modern-day Divisional Commissioner or District Collector.
- Rajuka (Correct): Originally responsible for surveying and measuring land (derived from Rajju meaning rope), their powers were expanded by Ashoka to include judicial functions. They were given independent authority to reward or punish people, acting as the link between the center and the rural population.
- Yukta (Correct): These were subordinate officers or clerical staff who assisted the Pradeshikas and Rajukas. Their primary responsibility was the accounting of the King's revenue and managing the state's secretarial work at the district level.
- Village-level (Incorrect): Administration at this level was handled by the Gramika or Gramini, assisted by a council of elders (Gram-vriddhas).
- Provincial (Incorrect): Provinces (Chakras) were usually governed by princes of the royal blood, known as Kumaras or Aryaputras, assisted by a council of ministers (Mahamatras).
