Spy System in Ancient India From Vedic Period to Gupta Period

In India, the system of espionage is as old as the Rigveda. It has developed into a sophisticated political art. 'Spies are the eyes of Kings' is a proverbial saying current among the people from time immemorial. In her work, the author has emphasised on the existence of spy system from the early vedic period. The spies seem to have been largely employed then not merely to ascertain validity or invalidity in the statements of parties and witnesses, but also to gather correct and reliable information as to the movements of tribal settlements of inimical tendency or disposition. It is an indispensable adjunct of foreign policy and also an important instrument of serving the government. Kautilya envisaged a well-knit system of espionage. The author has included a separate chapter on diplomacy and diplomatic agents. As spying and diplomacy work together and the duties and functions of spies and diplomats overlap and coincide. The ancient Indian spy system was so developed and organised that till today, it is a perennial source of inspiration and more useful basis for the modern intelligence system. This book will be useful not only to readers for History but scholars working in the field of Political Science, Military Science, Administration, Diplomacy etc. Moreover, it is a treasure house of important information for the students preparing for competitive examinations. It is a learned attempt for the in-depth. About The Author:- Dr. (Mrs.) Manila Rohatgi, obtained her masters degree in History with Gold Medal. After M.Phil. and Ph.D. she started her career as Assistant Lecturer in C.C.S. University, Meerut. She is a regular member of different societies like Indian History Congress, Indian Archaeological Society, Mahatama Gandhi International Humanity Mission, etc. She has been awarded with President Award in National Scouting and Guiding in 1991. Presently, she is working as head, Deptt. of History, Hapur, Gzb, with an aim to explore now ideas and research techniques