During the Mauryan Period, the empire was divided into six provinces for administrative purposes. The provinces were called                    .

The correct answer is Janpad.

Key Points

•  The Mauryan Empire was divided into four provinces known as Janpad with the imperial capital at Pataliputra.
• From Ashokan edicts, the name of the four provincial capitals were Tosali (in the east), Ujjain in the west, Suvarnagiri (in the south), and Taxila (in the north)
• At the centre of the structure was the king who had the power to enact laws. Kautilya advises the King to promulgate dharma when the social order based on the Varnas and Ashramas (stages in life) perishes.

Additional Information

• Suvarnagiri:
  • ​Suvarnagiri at the southern extent of the Mauryan Empire had gold mines.
  • It was considered the Gold mine hub in Karnataka.
  • It was an important source of revenue for the empire.
• Takshashila:
  • ​Takshashila was a noted center of learning, including the religious teachings of Buddhism.
  • It continued to attract students from around the world until its destruction in the 5th century CE.
  • It was known for its higher education and the curriculum comprised the study of ancient scriptures, law, medicine, astronomy, military science and the eighteen silpas or arts.
• Sarnath is a place located 10 kilometers north-east of Varanasi.
  • Sarnath is situated near the confluence of the Ganga and the Varuna Rivers.
  • The deer park in Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dhamma, 
  • It is the place where the Buddhist Sangha has originated as well as came into existence because of the enlightenment of Kondanna.
• The northern part which had its capital at Ujjayini and the southern part had its centre at Mahishmati.
  • Initially, Mahismati was the capital of Avanti but it was later on moved to Ujjayini.