The Mughal Empire, renowned for its grandeur and efficient administration, relied on intricate systems to govern its vast territories. Two crucial components of the Mughal administrative structure were Mansabdari aAnd Jagirdari, both playing pivotal roles in the empire's military and revenue management.
Mansabdari System:
1. Origin:
The Mansabdari system was a hierarchical ranking system introduced by Emperor Akbar in the late 16th century. The term "Mansab" translates to "position" or "rank," and individuals within this system were referred to as "Mansabdars."
2. Rank and Responsibilities:
Mansabdars were military commanders or officials appointed by the emperor. Each Mansab had a numerical rank, indicating the number of soldiers the officer was expected to maintain. The system had various ranks, ranging from as low as 10 to as high as 7,000.
3. Dual Role of Mansabdars:
Mansabdars held dual responsibilities, serving both in civil and military capacities. They were expected to be proficient in administrative duties while maintaining a contingent of soldiers for imperial service.
4. Salary and Revenue Assignment:
Mansabdars were paid through cash salaries, known as "Zat" (personal salary), and "Sawar" (for maintaining cavalry).The emperor granted revenue assignments known as "Jagir" to Mansabdars to support their military expenses.
5. Promotions and Demotions:
Promotions were based on loyalty, competence, and achievements in military service. Demotions or reductions in rank were also possible, depending on performance or imperial decisions.
6. Akbar's Innovations:
Akbar introduced the concept of "Zabt" or the fixed revenue system, ensuring stable revenue collection and reducing the dependency on local intermediaries.
Jagirdari System:
1. Function:
The Jagirdari system was a land revenue assignment system that granted rights over revenue collection to individuals known as "Jagirdars" or "Jagirdars."
2. Granting of Jagirs:
The emperor granted Jagirs as rewards for military service, administrative efficiency, or as a form of salary.Jagirdars were given the right to collect revenue from a specific territory.
3. Revenue Collection and Responsibilities:
Jagirdars were responsible for collecting revenue from their assigned territories and remitting a portion to the imperial treasury. They could employ agents or officials to assist in revenue collection.
4. Preventive Measures:
To prevent exploitation and excessive accumulation of power, the jagir was often not hereditary. Transfers or reshuffling of Jagirs were common to curb the influence of powerful nobles.
5. Land Revenue Share:
Jagirdars received a share of the revenue collected from the assigned territory, known as "Mansab," to support their military contingents.
6. Stability and Challenges:
The Jagirdari system provided stability in revenue collection but also posed challenges related to corruption, inefficiency, and exploitation of the local population.
