Growth of Administration: Mansabdari System and the Mughal Army

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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