Monday, February 17, 2025

A Discussion for Better Administration: A Conversation Between Sode Arasu Ramachandra Nayak and His Ministers

A Discussion for Better Administration: A Conversation Between Sode Arasu Ramachandra Nayak and His Ministers

(Setting: The Royal Court of Sode Kingdom, early morning. King Ramachandra Nayak sits on his throne, surrounded by his ministers. The court is filled with scrolls, maps, and records of the kingdom’s affairs.)

King Ramachandra Nayak:
"My wise ministers, we have gathered here today to discuss the progress of our administration. Our people must live with dignity, justice, and prosperity. Tell me, what concerns have been raised by the people?"  

Minister of Internal Affairs (Mahadeva Bhatta):
"Your Majesty, the recent drought has affected several villages. Farmers struggle with low crop yields, and some have left their lands in search of work. If we do not act swiftly, famine may follow."  

Minister of Agriculture (Gopalappa Nayaka):
"We must ensure better irrigation. The lakes and canals need maintenance. I suggest we form a team of engineers and laborers to restore them before the next monsoon."  

King Ramachandra Nayak:
"A wise suggestion. Assign the best engineers from our Vidya Peethas and ensure that every village has access to water. Also, provide seeds and tools to farmers in need. Let no one in our land go hungry."  

Minister of Justice (Shankarayya Pandit):
"Your Highness, there has been an increase in land disputes between wealthy landlords and poor farmers. Some landlords exploit loopholes in the law, forcing peasants to give up their lands."  

King Ramachandra Nayak.
"Injustice will not be tolerated in Sode! Establish a special court to review such cases. No man shall lose his land unfairly. Also, create a council of village elders to oversee land agreements fairly. Those who cheat the poor shall face severe consequences."  

Minister of Women’s Welfare (Devi Chennamma, Queen and Advisor):
"My Lord, the Devi Sangha has been training women in self-defense and trade, but some conservative families still refuse to educate their daughters. How do we ensure that every girl receives an education?"  


King Ramachandra Nayak:
"Education is the foundation of a strong kingdom. Issue a royal decree that all girls must be allowed to study in our Gurukulas. Any family that refuses shall be visited by our scholars, who will explain the benefits. We must lead by example—arrange for royal funds to establish more schools specifically for girls."  

Minister of Trade (Raghunatha Setty):
"Your Highness, merchants from Vijayanagara and the Malabar Coast have shown interest in trade, but they hesitate due to high taxes on imported goods. Lower tariffs may encourage more commerce."  

King Ramachandra Nayak:
"A prosperous kingdom needs trade. Reduce the import tax on essential goods and encourage local artisans by providing them royal patronage. Let our kingdom be known for its wealth and fair trade practices."  

Commander of the Army (Veera Nayaka):
"Your Majesty, while our army is strong, we lack trained archers. Neighboring regions are strengthening their forces, and we must not fall behind."  


King Ramachandra Nayak:
"Strength is the shield of peace. Expand our training centers and recruit skilled archers. Encourage young men to join by offering land grants and rewards. Also, strengthen our borders with well-guarded outposts."  

Minister of Public Welfare (Lakshmana Das):
"Sire, our kingdom is vast, and some distant villages feel neglected. They lack proper roads, healthcare, and governance."  


King Ramachandra Nayak:
"Send officials to these villages immediately. Ensure that roads are built and healers are assigned to every region. From now on, ministers will visit rural areas every month to understand their struggles. No part of Sode shall be forgotten!"  

(The ministers nod in agreement, impressed by the king’s wisdom and commitment.)


King Ramachandra Nayak:
"My ministers, our duty is not just to rule, but to serve. Let us ensure that justice prevails, prosperity grows, and no citizen is left behind. I trust you all to fulfill your responsibilities with honor."  
(With renewed energy, the ministers bow and leave to implement the king’s orders, ready to build a stronger and just Sode kingdom.)