DIP: 18.02.1033/20261101 
DOI: 10.25215/2455/11011033 
Abstract
In ancient Indian political thought, the state was conceptualized through the Saptanga (seven-limb) theory, an organic framework that recognized the army (danda) as one of its essential constituent elements. This structural view, dating back to pre-Kautilyan traditions, treated the military as an axiomatic pillar of statecraft, though not as the absolute sovereign power. Kautilya’s foundational text, the Arthashastra, explicitly prioritizes the treasury (kosa) over the army, arguing that financial stability is the primary engine for implementing virtuous acts and fulfilling societal desires, whereas an unbacked military carries inherent risks of rebellion or defection. However, this study traces a significant ideological shift in post-Kautilyan political treatises. Later thinkers, such as Kamandaka and Sukra, moved toward a more pronounced valorization of military might, framing the army and the treasury in a symbiotic relationship where financial reserves nourish military strength, and a powerful standing army in turn protects and expands state wealth. By exploring these shifting paradigms, this paper analyzes how ancient Indian theorists balanced fiscal prudence with militarization to ensure unhampered sovereignty and political survival.
The author(s) appreciates all those who participated in the study and helped to facilitate the research process. 
The author(s) declared no conflict of interest. 
ISSN 2455-670X