Gupta Period: Decentralised Administration and Role of Local Units

The administration of the Gupta Empire marked a notable departure from the highly centralized model of the Mauryas. It was characterized by a decentralized, quasi-feudal structure where local autonomy and the power of local elites—including guilds and community councils—increased significantly.

Key Administrative Features

• Feudatory Chiefs (Samantas): A major portion of the empire was governed indirectly by numerous feudatory chiefs (Samantas) who were subjugated by the Gupta emperors. These chiefs paid tribute, attended the imperial court, and offered military and marital alliances, but retained a significant degree of autonomy over their internal administration.
• Hereditary Posts: Many high administrative and military offices became ....