Introduction
The Mughal Empire, which ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent from the early 16th to the mid-18th century, is renowned for its sophisticated and centralized administrative system. Mughal administration blended Central Asian traditions with Indian practices, resulting in an efficient and structured bureaucracy. The empire’s governance model set a precedent for subsequent Indian rulers and even influenced British colonial administration. This essay explores the nature of Mughal administration, focusing on its central and provincial structures, revenue systems, military organization, and administrative innovations.
Centralized Bureaucracy
The Mughal administration was highly centralized, with the emperor at the apex of power. The emperor combined legislative, executive, and judicial authority. His court served as the epicenter of political, economic, and cultural life. The king’s decisions were final and absolute, although he was advised by a group of nobles and ministers.
Key officials included:
- Wazir (Prime Minister): Head of revenue and general administration.
- Mir Bakshi: Head of the military and responsible for mansabdars and recruitment.
- Sadr-us-Sudur: Head of religious and judicial matters.
- Diwan-i-Insha: Head of the royal correspondence and state records.
Mansabdari System
One of the hallmark features of Mughal administration was the Mansabdari System, introduced by Akbar. Under this system, officials called mansabdars were appointed by the emperor and ranked according to a numerical scale, which determined their pay and military responsibilities.
There were two designations:
- Za’t (personal rank): Determined the officer’s status and salary.
- Sawar (cavalry rank): Specified the number of cavalry the officer was required to maintain.
Mansabdars were both civil and military officials and could be transferred or dismissed at the emperor’s will. This system ensured loyalty and centralized control but also faced issues of corruption and inefficiency over time.
Revenue Administration
The revenue system was another cornerstone of Mughal governance. Akbar’s finance minister, Raja Todar Mal, implemented the zabt system based on land measurement and crop productivity. Land was classified into different categories, and taxes were fixed accordingly, generally at one-third of the produce’s value.
The revenue was collected in cash, enhancing monetization and stimulating trade. Revenue records were meticulously maintained, and officials like amil, qanungo, and patwari managed the collection at the local level. The revenue department was under the Diwan’s control.
Provincial Administration
The empire was divided into provinces or subahs, each governed by a subahdar. Each subah was further divided into sarkars (districts), parganas (blocks), and villages. The subahdar had military, judicial, and administrative powers within the province but was accountable to the emperor.
Other key provincial officers included:
- Diwan: In charge of revenue and finance.
- Bakshi: Oversaw military affairs.
- Faujdar: Maintained law and order and commanded military forces.
Judicial and Religious Administration
The Mughal emperor was the supreme judge. At the provincial level, judicial matters were handled by qazis, who interpreted Islamic law (Sharia). Hindu law was applied to non-Muslims in personal matters. The muhtasib was responsible for enforcing public morals and market regulations.
The Mughals followed a policy of religious tolerance, especially under Akbar. His Din-i-Ilahi sought to blend elements of various religions, though it failed to gain mass acceptance. Later rulers, especially Aurangzeb, shifted towards Islamic orthodoxy.
Military and Intelligence
The Mughal military was a composite force comprising cavalry, infantry, artillery, and navy (though limited). Mansabdars were required to maintain a specified number of troops and horses. Forts, garrisons, and road networks ensured rapid troop movement.
An efficient espionage system, known as barid, provided the emperor with real-time intelligence about provincial affairs, helping in maintaining control over a vast territory.
Urban and Economic Administration
Mughal cities were centers of trade, culture, and administration. Urban administration included regulation of markets, sanitation, and public works. The kotwal acted as the police chief and municipal head.
Trade was encouraged through road-building, standardized weights, and coinage. Both inland and maritime trade flourished, making the Mughal state one of the wealthiest in the early modern world.
Conclusion
The nature of Mughal administration was marked by a strong central authority, well-structured bureaucracy, efficient revenue mechanisms, and a balanced mix of civil and military power. The system was flexible enough to accommodate India’s vast diversity, contributing to the empire’s longevity and influence. Despite later decline due to internal strife and external invasions, the administrative model of the Mughals left a lasting legacy on Indian governance.