Similar to the Achaemenid and Seleucid forms of governance in Iran, the Shakas introduced the satrap system. The kingdom was divided into provinces under a military governor called mahakshatrapa (great satrap) whereas those governors who had a lower status were called kshatrapas (satraps).

The major governors issued their own coins and inscriptions. The Shaka kings borrowed titles such as ‘king of kings’ (rajadhiraja) and ‘great king’ (maharaja) from the Greeks.

The capital of Rudradaman was at Ujjain and the king was assisted by efficient ministers called matisachiva (counsellors) and karmasachiva (executive officers).

The economic and social life was well organised through guilds which received royal support and patronage. Two Nasik inscriptions specifically men­tion royal endowments to guilds for helping Buddhist monks.

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The inscriptions also convey the benevo­lence of Rudradaman towards his subjects. It is said that his treasury was nearly empty due to the cost of repairing the Sudarshana a lake and dam. Yet, he did not impose any tax for recovery.