The correct answer is (a) Kautilya’s Arthashastra.
Kautilya’s Arthashastra is an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft, economic policy, military strategy and international relations, written by Kautilya, also known as Chanakya, who was a scholar at Takshashila University. The Arthashastra is a comprehensive text, covering topics such as the ideal king, the duties of ministers, the organization of the army, the administration of justice, taxation, and foreign policy.
The Arthashastra is one of the most important sources of information on the Mauryan Empire, which was one of the largest and most powerful empires in Indian history. The Arthashastra provides a detailed account of the city administration of the Mauryas, including the duties of the city officials, the organization of the police force, and the maintenance of public order.
Megasthenes’ Indica is a work of history written by the Greek ambassador Megasthenes, who lived in India from 321 to 296 BCE. The Indica is a valuable source of information on the Mauryan Empire, but it is important to note that Megasthenes was not an impartial observer. He was a Greek ambassador, and his account of India is colored by his own cultural biases.
The Mudrarakshasa is a Sanskrit play written by Vishakha Datta in the 11th century CE. The Mudrarakshasa is a political drama that tells the story of the rise and fall of the Nanda dynasty. The play provides a glimpse into the political intrigues of the Mauryan court, but it is not a reliable source of information on the city administration of the Mauryas.
The Inscription of Ashoka are a series of edicts issued by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. The edicts are inscribed on rocks and pillars throughout India, and they provide a valuable source of information on the Mauryan Empire. However, the edicts do not provide a detailed account of the city administration of the Mauryas.