Question

Which one of the following statements is most appropriate regarding the zamindars of 16\textsuperscript{th and 17\textsuperscript{th} century India?}

• A. The zamindars were the exploitative class for the peasants.
• B. The zamindars collected revenue on behalf of the state.
• C. They always maintained cordial relations with the villagers.
• D. The zamindars had small piece of lands for personal use.

Hint:

When in doubt about zamindars' roles in the Mughal era, remember: they were revenue collectors for the state—not just landowners or local influencers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

During the 16\textsuperscript{th} and 17\textsuperscript{th} centuries, zamindars played a crucial role in the Mughal administrative and agrarian structure. They acted as intermediaries between the state and the peasants, primarily tasked with collecting land revenue on behalf of the state.
Though they often held substantial land and had influence in their areas, their key administrative duty was revenue collection. In return, they retained a portion of the collected revenue as their remuneration.
While some zamindars may have been exploitative or maintained good or bad relations with villagers, those characterizations are not universally true. Option (B) most accurately and generally reflects their institutional role during that period.