Discuss the characteristics and structure of Moghul administrative system.

1. Introduction to the Mughal Administrative System

The Mughal Empire, one of the most significant empires in Indian history, established a sophisticated administrative system that contributed to its stability and prosperity. Spanning from the early 16th to the mid-18th century, the Mughal administrative structure was characterized by its centralized governance, efficient bureaucracy, and utilization of Persian administrative practices.

2. Central Administration

At the apex of the Mughal administrative hierarchy was the emperor or the Padshah, who held supreme authority over the empire. The emperor was assisted by various administrative officials, including the Wazir (prime minister), Diwan (revenue minister), Mir Bakshi (military commander), and Sadr-i-Sadur (ecclesiastical head). These officials advised the emperor on matters of state and oversaw the functioning of different administrative departments.

3. Provincial Administration

The Mughal Empire was divided into provinces or Subas, each governed by a Subedar or a provincial governor appointed by the emperor. The Subedar was responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting revenue, and implementing imperial policies within their respective provinces. The provinces were further divided into districts or Sarkars, which were administered by officials known as Faujdars.

4. Revenue Administration

Revenue collection was a vital aspect of the Mughal administrative system, primarily managed by the Diwan. The empire employed a revenue system known as the Zabt or Todar Mal's system, named after the finance minister Todar Mal. Under this system, land revenue was assessed based on the fertility of the land, and the revenue demand was fixed for each plot of land. Revenue collectors known as Amils were appointed to oversee the collection process.

5. Military Administration

The Mughal military was organized along feudal lines, with the emperor as the supreme commander. The Mir Bakshi, or military commander, was responsible for recruitment, training, and deployment of troops. The army consisted of various divisions, including cavalry, infantry, artillery, and elephants. Mansabdars, or military commanders, were appointed to lead different units, and soldiers were paid through land grants known as Jagirs.

6. Judicial Administration

The Mughal Empire had a well-established judicial system based on Islamic law or Sharia. Qazis were appointed to preside over civil and criminal cases, while Muftis provided legal opinions on religious matters. The emperor served as the final authority in legal disputes, and appellate courts known as Dar-ul-Qaza were established in provincial capitals to hear appeals.

7. Administrative Reforms

Throughout its existence, the Mughal Empire implemented various administrative reforms to improve governance and efficiency. Emperor Akbar, in particular, introduced several innovative policies, including the Mansabdari system, which organized the military and civil administration based on rank and loyalty. He also initiated the practice of religious tolerance and abolished the jizya tax on non-Muslims.

8. Legacy of the Mughal Administrative System

The Mughal administrative system left a lasting legacy on Indian governance, influencing subsequent rulers and administrations. Despite its eventual decline, elements of the Mughal administrative structure, such as the Mansabdari system and revenue administration, continued to shape administrative practices in India for centuries. The Mughal emphasis on centralized authority, bureaucratic efficiency, and religious tolerance contributed to the resilience and adaptability of the Indian administrative tradition.

Conclusion

The Mughal administrative system was characterized by its centralized governance, efficient bureaucracy, and utilization of Persian administrative practices. With its emphasis on revenue administration, military organization, judicial system, and administrative reforms, the Mughal Empire established a framework that shaped governance in India for centuries to come. Though the empire eventually declined, its administrative legacy endured, leaving a significant impact on subsequent rulers and administrations in the Indian subcontinent.