Ashoka is called Ashoka the great because of his great deeds and policies. He gave a new direction to the Maurayan empire through his policies. He was a visionary who tried to analyse contemporary problems and resolve them. Some of his policies are as relevant today as they were in those times. His following works made him the great.

1. As a Fatherly figure – Ashoka gave the principle of welfare state and made public welfare the most important objective of his rule. He had deep concern for his people. He embraced the public welfare ideal of Kautilya.

Tree plantation, agriculture, irrigation, construction of wells, and inns etc. were done and employment opportunities were provided by him. He called his subjects his children.

2. Policy of Dhamma – To unite various communities, castes, cultures in a single entity; he initiated the policy of Dhamma. Its objective was spiritual and moral upliftment of the public.

3. Direct Contacts with the Subjects – Ashoka was the only ruler in history who had direct contacts with the subjects of his state. He prepared a contract for the king, people and bureaucracy by propounding Dhamma. He worked for public welfare.

4. Emphasis on economic development – Ashoka encouraged social, political, economic and unity and development which strengthened internal relations.

He improved economic and infrastructural framework vastly and strengthened the state economically and socially which is relevant even today. His objetive was to build a strong and well administered nation.

5. National Integration – Ashoka integrated India with one religion, one language, and usually one script. He taught the lesson of religious tolerence to the entire world.

6. A Uniform Civil Code – Ashoka implemented a uniform civil code and criminal code and established the rule of social justice and law. Ashoka lent dynamism to the weaker sections of society for the propagation of physical, cultural and peaceful co – existence; expanded agricutural land and employed war prisoners in forest, and mines. He made rural development his objective and paid more attention to it.

He made foreign policy very relevant. Due to his activities, the purchasing power of common people increased. Hence, Ashoka’s concern towards his public, towards his nation, made him a great ruler.