Explore Akbar's challenges with regional rebellions and his strategies for expanding the Mughal Empire during the 16th century.
Akbar’s New System of Administration
The New System of Administration under Akbar introduced in the late 16th century aimed at tighter control over nobles, financial accountability through the dagh system, and broader integration of territories. While this system strengthened Mughal rule, it faced strong regional resistance, especially in Bengal, Bihar, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. Understanding these challenges is vital for students preparing for history and competitive exams.
New System of Administration and Rebellions under Akbar (16th Century Mughal India)
Akbar’s administrative reforms consolidated Mughal power but triggered multiple rebellions due to stricter control and revenue measures.
Akbar emphasized accountability, limited noble independence, and focused on the people’s welfare. However, regions such as Gujarat, Bengal, and Bihar resisted these changes, while Rana Pratap continued his defiance in Rajasthan.
(i) Rebellions broke out in Gujarat, Bengal, Bihar, and Jaunpur.
(ii) The dagh system and strict income audits caused unrest among nobles and local elites.
(iii) Religious figures opposed Akbar’s liberal policies and restoration of land revenues.
Rebellion in Bengal and Bihar: The Major Challenge (1580–1581)
The eastern provinces posed the toughest test to Akbar’s administration, where rebels allied with Mirza Hakim and issued a religious edict against the emperor.
Causes of the Bengal and Bihar Rebellion
(i) Harsh enforcement of the dagh system.
(ii) Discontent among Afghans who lost power in the east.
(iii) Religious leaders resisting Akbar’s liberal policies.
Suppression of the Rebellion
(a) Todar Mal regained control over Bengal and Bihar.
(b) Raja Man Singh defeated Mirza Hakim in Lahore.
(c) Akbar marched with 50,000 troops, forcing Mirza Hakim to retreat and eventually handed Kabul to his sister in 1581.
Results and Significance
Rebel defeat: Reasserted Mughal authority in the east.
System strength: Proved the effectiveness of Akbar’s centralized reforms.
Future expansion: Enabled Akbar to pursue consolidation in other regions.
Further Expansion of the Mughal Empire (Northwest and Deccan Focus)
Following the suppression of rebellions, Akbar turned to the northwest and Deccan, extending Mughal authority and securing trade routes.
Northwest Expansion
(i) Campaigns in Kashmir (1586), Baluchistan, and the Khyber Pass.
(ii) Annexation of Sindh (1590) boosted trade along the Indus.
(iii) Lahore became Akbar’s base until 1598.
Eastern Expansion
(a) Orissa conquered by Raja Man Singh.
(b) Cooch-Bihar and eastern Bengal integrated.
(c) Kathiawar annexed by Mirza Aziz Koka.
Deccan Expansion
Initial campaigns: Led by Prince Murad and Khan-i-Khanan Munim Khan.
Ahmadnagar conquest (1600): Brought Mughals into contact with the Marathas.
Integration: Northern India unified, paving the way for deeper Deccan penetration.
Summary of Akbar’s Administration, Rebellions, and Expansion
The new administrative system of Akbar, though initially resisted in 1580–1581 by rebellions in Bengal, Bihar, and Gujarat, proved resilient through firm suppression. Subsequent Mughal expansion into the northwest, eastern India, and the Deccan consolidated imperial power and enhanced trade. For students, these developments highlight the importance of administrative reforms, challenges of resistance, and long-term integration of the Mughal Empire.
