An in-depth analysis of Mughal administrative growth. Learn about the Mansabdari system, army reforms, military efficiency, challenges, and the strategic Qandhar in Mughal-Iran relations.

Growth of Administration: Mansabdari System and the Mughal Army

Introduction

  • Establishment of the mansabdari system by Akbar to maintain military and administrative control.
  • Mansabdars paid Rs 240 per annum per sawar initially; allowed to retain 5% of salary for contingent expenses.
  • Favored mixed contingents to foster unity among diverse groups like Irani and Turani Mughals, Indian Afghans, and Rajputs.

Modifications under Jahangir

  • Reduction of sawar payment to Rs 200 per annum per sawar during Jahangir's rule.
  • Introduction of the du-aspah sih-aspah system allowing nobles to maintain troopers without rank increase.
  • Efforts to reduce zat salaries and adjust troop quotas based on rank.
  • Special permissions for exclusive contingents based on ethnic or tribal identities.
  • Challenges in maintaining unity among diverse groups within the Mughal army.

Reforms under Shah Jahan

  • Implementation of a month-scale payment system to manage financial strain.
  • Mansabdars increasingly paid in jagirs due to issues with cash payments.
  • Strategic reforms to maintain a loyal and efficient nobility despite fiscal challenges.
  • Introduction of meticulous rules and gradations to bureaucratize the nobility.
  • Challenges in overcoming feudal attachments to land and prestige.

Impact on Military Efficiency

  • Assessment of the mansabdari system's effectiveness in maintaining a formidable military force.
  • Role of the du-aspah sih-aspah system in expanding troop numbers under selected nobles.
  • Significance of mixed contingents in fostering military unity and reducing ethnic exclusiveness.
  • Impact of financial reforms on troop maintenance and overall military readiness.
  • Historical evaluation of military achievements and challenges under different Mughal rulers.

Administrative Challenges

  • Management of jagirs and their role in sustaining the nobility.
  • Challenges in maintaining accurate jama-dami records for effective revenue allocation.
  • Impact of financial strains on state resources and administration.
  • Strategies to balance fiscal policies with military and administrative demands.
  • Evaluation of administrative reforms to enhance governance and stability.

Legacy and Historical Significance

  • Shah Jahan's reforms stabilized the mansabdari system, ensuring military efficiency.
  • Despite challenges, the system remained integral to Mughal administration and defense.
  • The legacy highlighted the complexities of managing feudal structures amidst evolving administrative needs.
  • Evaluation of the mansabdari system's impact on later Mughal rulers and the decline of the empire.
  • Comparison with other imperial systems in history and their administrative legacies.
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