Summary: Chandragupta Maurya, in the 4th century BCE. The Arthashastra outlines principles of statecraft, governance, and diplomacy, advocating for the king to enforce social order, encourage honest pursuits, and help those who walk in the path of virtue. It emphasizes the importance of spies, punitive measures for false testimony, and the observation of parties' behavior in the court. The text also delves into taxation, justice, and the role of ministers. Another notable work, the Hitopadesa, by Narayana, aims to instruct princes with moral lessons through fables and stories. These texts, along with the Panchatantra, embody the political wisdom and ethical values of ancient Indian civilization.