The governance of the Gupta Empire, which flourished in ancient India from approximately 320 to 550 CE, was characterized by a combination of effective administration, relative stability, and cultural flourishing rather than reliance on threats, corporal punishment, or keeping subjects uneducated.
Among the options you've provided, "through enriching subjects through trade" is the most accurate. The Gupta Empire was known for its significant advancements in trade, economy, and cultural development. The emperors supported trade and commerce, which contributed to the wealth and prosperity of the empire. They promoted a system that encouraged entrepreneurship and facilitated the exchange of goods, contributing to a vibrant economy.
While the Gupta rulers did maintain a strong central authority, they also allowed a degree of local autonomy in the governance of their territories, which often led to a more stable administration. Education and the arts flourished during this period, indicating a level of enlightenment rather than dependence and oppression.
Therefore, while the governance model of the Gupta Empire does not fit neatly into the other options you provided, the emphasis on trade and economic enrichment is a distinguishing feature of its administration.