Shloka 2.52.72
गङ्गातरणम्, सुमन्त्र-प्रतिनिवर्तनम्, जटाधारणम् (Crossing the Gaṅgā; Sumantra’s Return; Adoption of Ascetic Signs)
अप्रमत्तो बले कोशे दुर्गे जनपदे तथा।भवेथा गुह राज्यं हि दुरारक्षतमं मतम्।।2.52.72।।
apramatto bale kośe durge janapade tathā | bhavethā guha rājyaṃ hi durārakṣatamaṃ matam || 2.52.72 ||
“Guha, remain vigilant regarding the army, the treasury, the forts, and the provinces as well; for a kingdom, it is held, is among the hardest things to guard.”
O Guha! you must be vigilant about your army, treasury, forts and provinces. A kingdom, it is (rightly) said, is protected with great difficulty.
Rājadharma: a ruler’s duty is vigilant protection of the state’s pillars—defense, finance, fortifications, and the welfare/security of the people.
Before departing, Rāma offers Guha practical counsel on safeguarding his realm, emphasizing constant alertness.
Responsible leadership—Rāma models concern for orderly governance even amid personal hardship.