Central Administration of the Mughal Empire

The Mughal Empire, at its heart lay a sophisticated system of administration that intricately wove together various facets to govern the diverse and expansive realms. 

1. Wazir (Prime Minister):

The Wazir, often referred to as the Prime Minister, held a pivotal role in the Mughal administrative machinery. This esteemed position was responsible for overseeing the entire administration and acted as the chief advisor to the emperor. The Wazir handled matters of statecraft, policy formulation, and served as a bridge between the emperor and other key officials.

2. Wakil (Agent or Representative):

The Wakil played a crucial role in financial administration. This position, known as Diwani Wazir, focused on revenue and expenditure management. Wakil was responsible for collecting revenue, managing the imperial treasury, and ensuring the financial stability of the empire.

3. Diwani Kul (Controller of Revenue):

The Diwani Kul, or Revenue Controller, was entrusted with the intricate task of overseeing the revenue system. This included the assessment and collection of land revenue, a fundamental source of income for the empire. The Diwani Kul played a vital role in maintaining a balance between revenue generation and the welfare of the agricultural population.

4. Mir Bakshi :

Mir Bakshi held a distinctive position as the head of the military administration. This influential figure managed the finances of the imperial army, ensuring timely payment to soldiers. Additionally, the Mir Bakshi played a key role in military appointments, promotions, and maintaining discipline within the ranks.

5. Mir Saman:

The Mir Saman, or Chief Steward, was entrusted with the task of managing the imperial household. This included overseeing the emperor's personal affairs, maintaining court protocol, and managing the vast royal estates. The Mir Saman played a crucial role in upholding the dignity and decorum of the imperial court.

6. Sadr-us Sudur (Chief Religious Officer):

The Sadr-us Sudur held a significant position as the chief religious officer. Responsible for matters of religious endowments, education, and charitable activities, the Sadr-us Sudur played a role in maintaining religious harmony within the empire. This position held particular importance due to the Mughal commitment to fostering a pluralistic society.

7. Qazi ul Quzzat (Chief Justice):

The Qazi ul Quzzat, or Chief Justice, presided over the judicial affairs of the empire. Ensuring justice was dispensed in accordance with Islamic law (Sharia), the Qazi ul Quzzat played a critical role in upholding the legal framework of the Mughal state. This position was crucial in maintaining law and order and ensuring the fair treatment of the empire's subjects.

Provincial Administration of the Mughal Empire

To effectively govern the diverse regions, the Mughals established a sophisticated provincial administration that incorporated key positions responsible for revenue, military, and law and order. 

1. Diwan (Revenue Officer):

The Diwan was a crucial figure in the provincial administration, responsible for the financial affairs of the region. This included the assessment and collection of revenue, a fundamental source of income for the empire. The Diwan worked closely with local officials to ensure the fair distribution of tax burdens and the efficient collection of revenue.

2. Bakshi (Military Commander):

The Bakshi held a prominent position as the military commander in the province. Responsible for maintaining law and order, the Bakshi oversaw the deployment of troops, defense strategies, and played a crucial role in the overall security of the region. The coordination between the Diwan and the Bakshi was vital for balancing fiscal stability with military preparedness.

3. Subedar (Governor):

The Subedar, or provincial governor, was appointed by the emperor to oversee both civil and military affairs within a specific region. This key administrative figure held significant power, acting as the emperor's representative in the province. The Subedar played a pivotal role in the collection of revenue, ensuring justice, and maintaining stability through military control.

4. Darogah I Dak (Postal Superintendent):

In the vast Mughal Empire, communication was paramount for effective governance. The Darogah I Dak, or Postal Superintendent, managed the imperial postal system. This included the organization of postal routes, dispatching official communications, and ensuring the timely delivery of messages between the provincial administration and the imperial court.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Local Administration in the Mughal Empire

1. Sarkar-Faujdar System: 

At the core of local administration was the Sarkar-Faujdar system. A Sarkar was an administrative unit, often corresponding to a district, and the Faujdar was the military commander appointed to oversee the region. The Faujdar held dual responsibilities – maintaining law and order and collecting revenue. This dual role symbolized the integrated approach of the Mughal administration, aligning military and fiscal aspects for effective governance.

2. Amalguzar (Revenue Officer):

The Amalguzar played a pivotal role in revenue administration at the local level. This officer was responsible for the assessment and collection of land revenue, a critical source of income for both the empire and the local administration. The Amalguzar worked in tandem with the Faujdar to ensure a balance between financial stability and military preparedness.

3. Thanedar (Police Officer):

Maintaining law and order within a Sarkar fell under the purview of the Thanedar. These local police officers were tasked with preventing crimes, apprehending criminals, and ensuring the safety of the populace. The Thanedar collaborated closely with the Faujdar, creating a synergy between military and police functions to uphold the rule of law.

Roles and Responsibilities:

Judicial and Military of the Mughal Empire

Key Positions:

1. Qazi-ul-Quzat: Chief Justice of the Empire

At the helm of the judicial hierarchy stood Qazi-ul-Quzat, the Chief Justice of the Mughal Empire. This distinguished individual wielded immense authority, presiding over the highest court and adjudicating matters of paramount importance. Qazi-ul-Quzat was appointed by the emperor himself and was often a scholar well-versed in Islamic law (Sharia).

2. Qazis: Dispensers of Justice

Qazis were appointed throughout the empire, acting as judges responsible for interpreting and applying Islamic law at the local level. They played a crucial role in resolving civil and criminal disputes, ensuring justice was dispensed in accordance with Islamic principles. Qazis were known for their impartiality and were expected to be well-versed in both Islamic jurisprudence and local customs.

3. Muhtasib: Market Inspector and Morality Enforcer

The role of Muhtasib was distinctive, as this official combined elements of market regulation with the enforcement of public morality. Appointed by the emperor, Muhtasib oversaw markets, ensuring fair trade practices and the quality of goods. Additionally, they were tasked with maintaining public decency, regulating manners, and punishing moral offenses.

4. Mir Adl: Chief Justice in Provincial Capitals

In provincial capitals, Mir Adl served as the chief justice, overseeing the provincial judicial apparatus. They were responsible for upholding the emperor's justice, interpreting laws, and resolving disputes. Mir Adl was a key figure in maintaining the coherence of the legal system at the regional level.

5. Qanungo: Land Revenue Officer and Legal Recorder

While primarily associated with revenue administration, the Qanungo played a significant role in the legal domain. They were responsible for recording land revenue, maintaining land records, and ensuring compliance with revenue laws. In this dual role, the Qanungo contributed to both fiscal administration and legal documentation.

Military Administration of the Mughal Empire: 

Key Positions:

1. Badshah: The Supreme Commander

At the apex of the military hierarchy stood the Badshah, or emperor, who held the supreme command over the Mughal armed forces. The Badshah played a crucial role in strategic decision-making, the appointment of military commanders, and the overall direction of military campaigns.

2. Mir Bakshi: The Chief Paymaster

Mir Bakshi held a pivotal position, serving as the chief paymaster of the Mughal military. This official was responsible for overseeing the payment of salaries to soldiers, ensuring the financial well-being of the armed forces, and maintaining records related to military expenditures.

3. Diwan-i-Ariz: Controller of the Army

The Diwan-i-Ariz, or the Controller of the Army, was entrusted with the task of managing the logistics and supplies for the military. This position involved overseeing the distribution of arms, ammunition, and provisions to the soldiers, ensuring the smooth functioning of the armed forces.

4. Mir Atish: Master of Ordnance

The Mir Atish played a crucial role in artillery management. This official was responsible for the procurement, maintenance, and effective use of artillery and other siege weapons. The position held significance in an era where the mastery of artillery often determined the outcome of battles.

5. Amir-i-Tuzuk: Master of the Royal Wardrobe

While primarily associated with the imperial household, the Amir-i-Tuzuk also played a role in military administration. This official was responsible for maintaining the royal wardrobe, which included military uniforms and insignia. The visual representation of the armed forces bore the imprint of Amir-i-Tuzuk's influence.