Question

Briefly describe the provincial administration of the Mughal period.

Hint:

A key feature of Mughal provincial administration was the 'system of checks and balances'. Remember that the Subadar (executive head) and Diwan (revenue head) were independent of each other and directly accountable to the emperor. This prevented the concentration of power.

Answer 1

The provincial administration of the Mughal period was an integral part of the administrative system established by the Mughals to manage their vast empire. The Mughal empire was divided into several provinces known as Subahs, and each Subah was governed by a Subahdar (also known as a Nawab or Governor). The provincial administration was characterized by a well-structured and hierarchical system, designed to ensure effective control and revenue collection. The main features of the provincial administration during the Mughal period were as follows:

• Subahs (Provinces): The Mughal Empire was divided into several Subahs, which were the highest administrative units. Each Subah was further divided into Sarkars (districts), which were smaller administrative divisions. The division of the empire into Subahs allowed the Mughals to effectively manage the diverse regions of India.
• Subahdar (Governor): The Subahdar, or Governor, was the head of each Subah and was responsible for maintaining law and order, overseeing revenue collection, and executing royal orders. The Subahdar acted as the representative of the emperor in the province. The Subahdar was appointed by the emperor and was typically a trusted noble or military leader.
• Diwan (Finance Minister): The Diwan was the finance minister in the provincial administration and was responsible for the collection of revenue, managing the treasury, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the financial system. The Diwan worked closely with the Subahdar to ensure the efficient management of the province’s resources.
• Faujdar (Military Officer): The Faujdar was a military officer who was responsible for maintaining law and order in the province. The Faujdar had control over the local military forces and was tasked with dealing with rebellions, local uprisings, or external threats. They played an important role in ensuring the security of the province.
• Qazi (Judicial Officer): The Qazi was the judicial officer responsible for administering justice in the province. The Qazi was in charge of the courts and was responsible for upholding the law according to Islamic principles. The Qazi worked in coordination with the local officials to ensure that justice was served.
• Revenue Collection: The Mughal provincial administration was primarily focused on revenue collection, which was essential for the functioning of the empire. The Diwan, along with local officials, managed the Zabt system (land revenue system), where land was measured, and taxes were collected. The revenue was often paid in kind or in cash, and the collection was a significant responsibility of the provincial administration.

Conclusion:

The provincial administration of the Mughal period was a hierarchical system that helped the emperors manage the vast empire effectively. The key officials, including the Subahdar, Diwan, Faujdar, and Qazi, worked together to maintain law and order, manage finances, and oversee revenue collection. This system of administration helped the Mughal Empire maintain control over its vast territories for several centuries.