Read the following lines from the Arthashastra. An annual salary of 60 panas could be substituted by an adhaka of grain per Class 7

Read the following lines from the Arthashastra. An annual salary of 60 panas could be substituted by an adhaka of grain per Class 7

Read the following lines from the Arthashastra.

"An annual salary of 60 panas could be substituted by an adhaka of grain per day, enough for four meals..." (One ādhaka is equal to about 3 kg) What does this indicate about the value of one pana?

The fine for failing to help a neighbour was 100 panas.

Compare this with the annual salary. What conclusion can you draw about the human values being encouraged through this?

Answer:

The lines from the Arthaśhāstra indicate that one pana has a specific value related to daily needs. If an annual salary of 60 panas can be exchanged for enough grain for four meals each day for a year, it shows that each pana is important for survival and valuable.

When we compare the fine of 100 panas for not helping a neighbour to the annual salary of 60 panas, showing strict penalty. It suggests that helping others is highly valued in society. The fine is greater than the annual salary, emphasising that community support and cooperation are essential human values. This encourages people to be kind and assist one another, reinforcing the idea that helping others is as important as earning a living.