Step 1: About Arthashastra.
The Arthashastra, attributed to Kautilya (Chanakya), is an ancient text on statecraft, economics, military strategy, and governance.
Step 2: Reference Check.
- (A) Mauryas: The Arthashastra doesn't directly mention the Mauryan dynasty.
- (B) Statecraft: This is a central theme of the Arthashastra, thus relevant.
- (C) Pataliputra: The Mauryan capital isn't explicitly mentioned.
- (D) Chandragupta: While tradition links Chanakya to Chandragupta Maurya, the text doesn't name him directly.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Therefore, the Arthashastra lacks direct references to the Mauryas, Pataliputra, and Chandragupta—specifically A, C, and D.