Janapada

By Swami Harshananda

Janapada literally means ‘people’.

In the political science works, every rājya or state is said to have seven aṅgas or constituents. Janapada is the third. Janapada actually signifies people of the State.

Since the entire governmental system is meant for the welfare of the people, they must be kept happy and contented. For this they need security and all opportunities to develop. Their primary needs which have to fulfilled are food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, education and avenues for employment. Hence, the king and his government must support and encourage all the organizations of public service such as trade guilds, labor unions, educational institutions and self government agencies like the pañcāyats. All the welfare activities must be conducted through them or with their co operation.

References

• The Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Swami Harshananda, Ram Krishna Math, Bangalore