Chandragupta Maurya, a brilliant strategist and a skilled administrator, played a pivotal role in establishing the first Indian empire. Here’s how he achieved this feat:  

Alliance with Chanakya:

• Chandragupta formed a crucial alliance with Chanakya, a renowned scholar and political advisor. Chanakya provided him with strategic guidance and helped him build a strong army.  

Overthrowing the Nanda Dynasty:

• With Chanakya’s counsel, Chandragupta led a rebellion against the Nanda Dynasty, which ruled over the Magadha kingdom.

   
• The Nanda Dynasty, though powerful, was plagued by internal strife and unpopularity. Chandragupta’s forces, backed by Chanakya’s astute strategies, successfully overthrew the Nandas.  

Military Expansion:

• After consolidating power in Magadha, Chandragupta embarked on a series of military conquests.  
• He expanded his empire westward, conquering territories in the northwest, including parts of modern-day Afghanistan and Pakistan.  
• His army, well-trained and disciplined, proved formidable in battle.  

Effective Administration:

• Chandragupta established a well-organized and efficient administrative system.  
• He appointed skilled bureaucrats to oversee various departments, including finance, taxation, and law enforcement.  
• The empire was divided into provinces, each with a governor responsible for maintaining law and order.  

Economic Reforms:

• Chandragupta implemented economic reforms to strengthen the empire’s economy.
• He encouraged agriculture and trade, and introduced standardized weights and measures.  
• This led to increased prosperity and stability within the empire.

Legacy:

Chandragupta’s reign marked a significant turning point in Indian history. He laid the foundation for a unified and powerful empire, which reached its zenith under his grandson, Ashoka the Great. The Mauryan Empire, established by Chandragupta, left a lasting legacy in terms of administrative and economic reforms, as well as cultural and artistic achievements.