Contents of Indika:
- Economy. Gold, silver, copper and iron are abundant on Indian soil. Besides, tin and other metals are used for making a number of tools, weapons, ornaments, and other articles. No famines have ever occurred in India because of the following reasons:
1. The Indians are always assured of at least one of the two
seasonal crops.
2. There are a number of spontaneously growing fruits and edible
roots available.
3. The Indian warriors regard those engaged in agriculture and
animal husbandry as sacred. Unlike the warriors in other countries, they do not
ravage farms during war conquests. Moreover, the warring sides never destroy
the enemy land with fire or cut down its trees.
- Society. The population of India is divided into 7 endogamous and hereditary castes:
1. Philosophers- Believed to be most dear to the gods, and to be the most
conversant with matters pertaining to Hades. At the beginning of the year, they
make prophecies about droughts, rain storms, propitious winds, diseases and
other topics. Based on these prophecies, the citizens and the rulers make
adequate preparations. A philosopher whose prophecy fails receives strong
criticism and has to observe silence for the rest of his life, but otherwise incurs
no penalty.
2. Farmers- Most numerous of all
castes. Live in villages and protected from damage during wars, even by enemy
warriors.
3. Herders- Live in tents, outside villages and towns. Hunt and trap
crop-destroying birds and animals
4. Artisans- Exempted from paying taxes, and receive a maintenance from the
state exchequer
5. Military- Maintained at state expense, along with war horses and
elephants
6. Overseers
7. Councillors and Assessors- Composed of
wise people with good character
- Administration. The foreigners are treated well. Special officers are appointed to ensure that no foreigner was harmed, and judges handed out harsh punishment to those who took unfair advantage of the foreigners.
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