Mughal Administration MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Mughal Administration - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Akbar.

Key Points

• The Dahsala system, also known as the Zabti system, was introduced by Akbar in 1580-82 AD.
• This system was developed by Raja Todar Mal, Akbar's finance minister, to streamline land revenue collection.
• It fixed the average produce and prices of crops over the last 10 years and calculated one-third of the average as the state's share.
• The system was aimed at ensuring fairness in taxation and reducing exploitation of farmers by intermediaries.

Additional Information

• Iltutmish: Iltutmish was the third ruler of the Slave Dynasty and is credited with consolidating the Delhi Sultanate. He introduced the silver Tanka and copper Jital coins but had no association with land revenue reforms like Dahsala.
• Sher Shah: Sher Shah Suri introduced an early form of land revenue reforms known as the Ryotwari system. He is also known for establishing the Grand Trunk Road and reforming the postal system.
• Aurangzeb: Aurangzeb was the last significant Mughal emperor and is known for his orthodox policies. He imposed the Jizya tax on non-Muslims and expanded the Mughal Empire, but he did not introduce the Dahsala system.

The correct answer is Bhagwant Das.

Key Points

• Bhagwant Das was a prominent ruler of the Amber kingdom (modern-day Jaipur) during the late 16th century.
• In 1585 AD, Bhagwant Das married his daughter, Princess Man Bai (also known as Shah Begum), to Prince Salim, who later became Emperor Jahangir.
• This alliance was part of the Mughal-Rajput matrimonial alliances initiated by Akbar to secure political stability and strengthen ties with Rajput rulers.
• Man Bai became the mother of Khusrau Mirza, the eldest son of Jahangir, and played an important role in Mughal history.
• Bhagwant Das, as a close ally of Akbar, held significant positions in the Mughal administration and was a key figure in maintaining Mughal-Rajput relations.

Additional Information

• Mughal-Rajput Alliances:
  • These alliances were forged during Akbar's reign to consolidate Mughal rule in India.
  • Many Rajput rulers, including Raja Bharmal and Bhagwant Das, allied with the Mughals through matrimonial ties.
• Man Bai (Shah Begum):
  • She was the first wife of Jahangir and was later given the title "Shah Begum."
  • Her marriage to Prince Salim was instrumental in strengthening Mughal-Rajput relations.
• Jahangir (Prince Salim):
  • He was the son of Akbar and became the fourth Mughal Emperor, ruling from 1605 to 1627.
  • His reign was marked by political consolidation and cultural achievements.
• Amber Kingdom:
  • The Amber kingdom, ruled by the Kachwaha Rajputs, was located in the region of present-day Jaipur, Rajasthan.
  • The rulers of Amber played a significant role in Mughal politics, serving as generals and administrators.

The correct answer is Todar MalKey Points

•  Raja Todar Mal was the revenue minister during the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar: 
• Introduced the Dahsala system
• In 1580, Todar Mal introduced the Dahsala system of taxation, which was based on the average crop production over the previous 10 years.
• The state's share was one-third of the average produce. 
• Introduced the Zabt tax
• Todar Mal also introduced the Zabt tax, a land tax system based on the productive capacity of the land.
• The tax was adjusted periodically to reflect changes in the land's value. 
• Other contributions
• Todar Mal also introduced standard weights and measures, a land survey and settlement system, revenue districts, and officers. 
• A member of Akbar's court
• Todar Mal was one of the Navaratnas in Akbar's court. 

Additional Information

•  Abdul Rahim, Mulla Do-Piyaza, and Tansen were all part of the "Navaratnas" or "Nine Jewels" of Mughal emperor Akbar's court: 
• Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khana
  • A poet and statesman who was one of the nine important ministers in Akbar's court.
  • He was also known as Rahim and Khan-i-Khanan. 
• Mulla Do-Piyaza
  • An advisor and vizier to Akbar who was portrayed as witty and a rival to Birbal. However, most scholars believe he was fictional.
• Tansen
  • A musician whose full name was Ramtanu.
  • He died in Agra on April 26, 1589 and is buried at the Memorial of Tansen in Gwalior. 

Important Points

• The other members of the Navaratnas were:
  • Abu'l-Fazl
  • Raja Todar Mal
  • Birbal
  • Faizi
  • Fakir Aziao-Din
  • Man Singh 
  • The Navaratnas were experts in different art fields and helped Akbar make important decisions.

The correct answer is He was responsible for keeping strict watch over proper maintenance of the sanctioned size of armed contingents and war equipage by the mansabdars..

Key Points

• The Bakshi was a high-ranking official in the Mughal military administration.
• His primary role was to ensure that the mansabdars maintained their assigned military contingents and war equipment according to their rank.
• He monitored the muster rolls and inspected the troops to verify the actual number of soldiers and equipment.
• The Bakshi also played a crucial role in organizing the logistics for military campaigns, including the supply of provisions and weapons.
• He reported directly to the emperor and was a key figure in maintaining the efficiency and readiness of the Mughal army.

Additional Information

• Mansabdari System:
  • Introduced by Akbar, the Mansabdari system was a bureaucratic structure for managing the nobility and the military.
  • Mansabdars were ranked officials who were assigned a specific number of troops and responsibilities.
  • Ranks ranged from 10 to 10,000, and higher ranks were associated with greater responsibilities and privileges.
  • Mansabdars were paid through revenue assignments called jagirs.
• Diwan-i-Wazarat:
  • The Diwan-i-Wazarat was responsible for revenue and finances in the Mughal administration.
  • This department supervised the collection of taxes and managed the imperial treasury.
  • The head of the Diwan-i-Wazarat was known as the Wazir or the Diwan.
• Mir Bakshi:
  • The Mir Bakshi was another key official in the Mughal military administration.
  • He was responsible for the administration of the military payroll and the assignment of jagirs to the mansabdars.
  • The Mir Bakshi also managed the recruitment and training of soldiers.
• Imperial Military Structure:
  • The Mughal military was a well-organized force with a hierarchical structure.
  • It included various regiments such as infantry, cavalry, artillery, and elephant corps.
  • The military hierarchy ensured efficient command and control during campaigns.

The correct answer is: '4) (B), (D) and (E) only'.

Key Points

• Zamindars could sell, bequeath or mortgage the milkiyat lands.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Zamindars had proprietary rights over the milkiyat lands, meaning they could sell, mortgage, or pass on these lands to their heirs.
• Most Zamindars had fortresses as well as armed contingents.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Zamindars often had fortresses to protect their lands and maintain their authority. They also maintained armed contingents to enforce their control and safeguard their interests.
• Control over military resources was another source of power for the Zamindars.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Zamindars' control over military resources provided them with significant power and autonomy, enabling them to exert influence and maintain their position within the local hierarchy.

Incorrect Statements

• Milkiyat lands were cultivated for the general use of the people.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • Milkiyat lands were typically private lands owned by zamindars and not meant for general public use. They were used for the zamindar's personal benefit.
• Zamindars collected revenue on behalf of themselves.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • While zamindars had significant authority, they primarily collected revenue on behalf of the state. They were intermediaries between the peasants and the state revenue system.

Hence, Statements (B), (D), and (E) are correct, while Statements (A) and (C) are incorrect.

Additional Information

• Zamindari System:
  • The zamindari system was a land revenue system in British India where zamindars acted as intermediaries between the government and the peasants.
  • Zamindars were responsible for collecting taxes from the peasants and passing them on to the colonial administration.
• Role of Zamindars:
  • Zamindars played a significant role in rural administration, maintaining law and order, and managing agricultural production.
  • Their power and influence were often bolstered by their control over land and military resources.

The correct answer is He was responsible for keeping strict watch over proper maintenance of the sanctioned size of armed contingents and war equipage by the mansabdars..

Key Points

• The Bakshi was a high-ranking official in the Mughal military administration.
• His primary role was to ensure that the mansabdars maintained their assigned military contingents and war equipment according to their rank.
• He monitored the muster rolls and inspected the troops to verify the actual number of soldiers and equipment.
• The Bakshi also played a crucial role in organizing the logistics for military campaigns, including the supply of provisions and weapons.
• He reported directly to the emperor and was a key figure in maintaining the efficiency and readiness of the Mughal army.

Additional Information

• Mansabdari System:
  • Introduced by Akbar, the Mansabdari system was a bureaucratic structure for managing the nobility and the military.
  • Mansabdars were ranked officials who were assigned a specific number of troops and responsibilities.
  • Ranks ranged from 10 to 10,000, and higher ranks were associated with greater responsibilities and privileges.
  • Mansabdars were paid through revenue assignments called jagirs.
• Diwan-i-Wazarat:
  • The Diwan-i-Wazarat was responsible for revenue and finances in the Mughal administration.
  • This department supervised the collection of taxes and managed the imperial treasury.
  • The head of the Diwan-i-Wazarat was known as the Wazir or the Diwan.
• Mir Bakshi:
  • The Mir Bakshi was another key official in the Mughal military administration.
  • He was responsible for the administration of the military payroll and the assignment of jagirs to the mansabdars.
  • The Mir Bakshi also managed the recruitment and training of soldiers.
• Imperial Military Structure:
  • The Mughal military was a well-organized force with a hierarchical structure.
  • It included various regiments such as infantry, cavalry, artillery, and elephant corps.
  • The military hierarchy ensured efficient command and control during campaigns.

The correct answer is Akbar.

Key Points

• The Dahsala system, also known as the Zabti system, was introduced by Akbar in 1580-82 AD.
• This system was developed by Raja Todar Mal, Akbar's finance minister, to streamline land revenue collection.
• It fixed the average produce and prices of crops over the last 10 years and calculated one-third of the average as the state's share.
• The system was aimed at ensuring fairness in taxation and reducing exploitation of farmers by intermediaries.

Additional Information

• Iltutmish: Iltutmish was the third ruler of the Slave Dynasty and is credited with consolidating the Delhi Sultanate. He introduced the silver Tanka and copper Jital coins but had no association with land revenue reforms like Dahsala.
• Sher Shah: Sher Shah Suri introduced an early form of land revenue reforms known as the Ryotwari system. He is also known for establishing the Grand Trunk Road and reforming the postal system.
• Aurangzeb: Aurangzeb was the last significant Mughal emperor and is known for his orthodox policies. He imposed the Jizya tax on non-Muslims and expanded the Mughal Empire, but he did not introduce the Dahsala system.

The correct answer is Todar MalKey Points

•  Raja Todar Mal was the revenue minister during the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar: 
• Introduced the Dahsala system
• In 1580, Todar Mal introduced the Dahsala system of taxation, which was based on the average crop production over the previous 10 years.
• The state's share was one-third of the average produce. 
• Introduced the Zabt tax
• Todar Mal also introduced the Zabt tax, a land tax system based on the productive capacity of the land.
• The tax was adjusted periodically to reflect changes in the land's value. 
• Other contributions
• Todar Mal also introduced standard weights and measures, a land survey and settlement system, revenue districts, and officers. 
• A member of Akbar's court
• Todar Mal was one of the Navaratnas in Akbar's court. 

Additional Information

•  Abdul Rahim, Mulla Do-Piyaza, and Tansen were all part of the "Navaratnas" or "Nine Jewels" of Mughal emperor Akbar's court: 
• Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khana
  • A poet and statesman who was one of the nine important ministers in Akbar's court.
  • He was also known as Rahim and Khan-i-Khanan. 
• Mulla Do-Piyaza
  • An advisor and vizier to Akbar who was portrayed as witty and a rival to Birbal. However, most scholars believe he was fictional.
• Tansen
  • A musician whose full name was Ramtanu.
  • He died in Agra on April 26, 1589 and is buried at the Memorial of Tansen in Gwalior. 

Important Points

• The other members of the Navaratnas were:
  • Abu'l-Fazl
  • Raja Todar Mal
  • Birbal
  • Faizi
  • Fakir Aziao-Din
  • Man Singh 
  • The Navaratnas were experts in different art fields and helped Akbar make important decisions.

The correct answer is Bairam Khan.

Key Points

• Bairam Khan was a prominent noble and general of the Mughal Empire during the reign of Emperor Akbar.
• He served as the regent and guardian of young Akbar, managing the affairs of the state and the military.
• Bairam Khan was conferred with the title of "Khan-i-Khanan," which means "Khan of Khans" or "Chief of Chiefs."
• His loyalty and strategic expertise were instrumental in consolidating Mughal rule in India.

Additional Information

• Vakil: The term "Vakil" in the Mughal administration refers to a representative or a high-ranking official who acted on behalf of the emperor. The Vakil was responsible for supervising the administration and ensuring that the emperor's orders were implemented.
• Khan-i-Khanan: This title was one of the highest honors in the Mughal hierarchy, bestowed upon individuals who demonstrated exceptional loyalty and service to the emperor. It signified supreme authority and respect.
• Akbar's Reign: Akbar, also known as Akbar the Great, was the third Mughal emperor who ruled from 1556 to 1605. His reign is noted for significant administrative, cultural, and military achievements, including the establishment of a centralized government and promoting a policy of religious tolerance.
• Birbal and Raja Todar Mal: While Birbal was one of Akbar's trusted advisors and known for his wit and wisdom, Raja Todar Mal served as Akbar's finance minister and played a crucial role in the implementation of revenue reforms. Neither of them held the title of "Khan-i-Khanan."

The correct answer is Humayun.

Key Points

• Humayun was the son of Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire in India.
• Humayun succeeded his father Babur after his death in 1530.
• Humayun's reign was marked by a series of setbacks and recoveries, including being ousted from his kingdom by Sher Shah Suri.
• He eventually regained his throne with the help of the Persian Empire and re-established Mughal rule in India before his accidental death in 1556.

Additional Information

• Babur
  • Babur was the founder of the Mughal Empire in India, establishing it after his victory at the First Battle of Panipat in 1526.
  • He was a descendant of Timur on his father's side and Genghis Khan on his mother's side.
  • Babur's contributions laid the foundation for a powerful and enduring empire in the Indian subcontinent.
• Humayun
  • Humayun was the eldest son of Babur and succeeded him as the second Mughal Emperor.
  • His full name was Nasir-ud-Din Muḥammad Humayun.
  • Humayun faced challenges from Afghan and Rajput rulers and was defeated by Sher Shah Suri, leading to his temporary exile.
  • With Persian assistance, Humayun was able to reclaim his throne in 1555.
• Sher Shah Suri
  • Sher Shah Suri was an Afghan ruler who defeated Humayun and established the Suri Empire in India.
  • He is known for his administrative reforms, including the introduction of the Rupiya and the improvement of infrastructure.
  • Sher Shah's rule was short-lived, but his policies greatly influenced the Mughal administration.
• Mughal Empire
  • The Mughal Empire was a prominent empire in the Indian subcontinent that lasted from the early 16th to the mid-18th century.
  • It was known for its rich cultural contributions, monumental architecture, and the amalgamation of Persian and Indian cultures.
  • The empire reached its zenith under rulers like Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb.

The correct answer is Todar MalKey Points

•  Raja Todar Mal was the revenue minister during the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar: 
• Introduced the Dahsala system
• In 1580, Todar Mal introduced the Dahsala system of taxation, which was based on the average crop production over the previous 10 years.
• The state's share was one-third of the average produce. 
• Introduced the Zabt tax
• Todar Mal also introduced the Zabt tax, a land tax system based on the productive capacity of the land.
• The tax was adjusted periodically to reflect changes in the land's value. 
• Other contributions
• Todar Mal also introduced standard weights and measures, a land survey and settlement system, revenue districts, and officers. 
• A member of Akbar's court
• Todar Mal was one of the Navaratnas in Akbar's court. 

Additional Information

•  Abdul Rahim, Mulla Do-Piyaza, and Tansen were all part of the "Navaratnas" or "Nine Jewels" of Mughal emperor Akbar's court: 
• Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khana
  • A poet and statesman who was one of the nine important ministers in Akbar's court.
  • He was also known as Rahim and Khan-i-Khanan. 
• Mulla Do-Piyaza
  • An advisor and vizier to Akbar who was portrayed as witty and a rival to Birbal. However, most scholars believe he was fictional.
• Tansen
  • A musician whose full name was Ramtanu.
  • He died in Agra on April 26, 1589 and is buried at the Memorial of Tansen in Gwalior. 

Important Points

• The other members of the Navaratnas were:
  • Abu'l-Fazl
  • Raja Todar Mal
  • Birbal
  • Faizi
  • Fakir Aziao-Din
  • Man Singh 
  • The Navaratnas were experts in different art fields and helped Akbar make important decisions.

The correct answer is Bairam Khan.

Key Points

• Bairam Khan was a trusted military commander and political advisor of Akbar, the third Mughal emperor of India.
• He was appointed as the Wakil (Prime Minister) of the Mughal Empire and given the title of Khan-i-Khanan, which means "Lord of Lords."
• During Akbar’s coronation in 1556, Bairam Khan played a key role in consolidating the Mughal rule and acted as the regent for the young emperor, who was only 13 years old at the time.
• Bairam Khan was instrumental in securing Akbar's throne by leading the Mughal forces to victory in the Second Battle of Panipat (1556) against Hemu, a powerful rival.
• As Wakil and Khan-i-Khanan, Bairam Khan managed the administrative and military affairs of the Mughal Empire during Akbar's early reign, ensuring stability and expansion.

Additional Information

• Khan-i-Khanan:
  • The title "Khan-i-Khanan" was one of the highest titles in the Mughal hierarchy, signifying supreme authority under the emperor.
  • It was often bestowed upon individuals who demonstrated exceptional loyalty and administrative or military capabilities.
• Bairam Khan’s Role in the Second Battle of Panipat (1556):
  • The Second Battle of Panipat was a decisive battle fought between the Mughal forces led by Bairam Khan and the army of Hemu, a Hindu general of the Sur Dynasty.
  • Hemu was defeated, and this victory ensured the re-establishment of Mughal dominance in northern India.
• Akbar’s Coronation:
  • Akbar was crowned as the Mughal emperor in 1556 at Kalanaur, Punjab, following the death of his father, Humayun.
  • Since Akbar was a minor, Bairam Khan served as his regent, exercising significant authority on his behalf.
• Bairam Khan’s Downfall:
  • In 1560, Akbar began asserting his independence and dismissed Bairam Khan from regency.
  • Bairam Khan was later assassinated in Gujarat while traveling to Mecca for pilgrimage.

The correct answer is Tobacco.

Key Points

• Tobacco was introduced to India by the Portuguese in the late 16th century and became popular in the early 17th century.
• The Ain-i-Akbari, written by Abu'l-Fazl in the late 16th century, does not mention tobacco as it was not known in northern India at that time.
• The Ain-i-Akbari is a detailed document recording the administration of the Mughal emperor Akbar, including lists of crops grown in India during his reign.
• By the time tobacco became widespread in northern India, the Ain-i-Akbari had already been completed.

Additional Information

• Tobacco Introduction:
  • Tobacco was brought to India by Portuguese traders in the 16th century.
  • It quickly became popular in the Mughal court and among the general population.
• Ain-i-Akbari:
  • The Ain-i-Akbari is part of the Akbarnama, a chronicle of Akbar's reign.
  • It was written by Abu'l-Fazl, one of Akbar's court historians.
  • The document provides a detailed account of the administration, culture, and economy of Akbar's empire.
• Crops in Ain-i-Akbari:
  • The Ain-i-Akbari lists various crops such as wheat, barley, and pulses like arhar grown in northern India during Akbar's reign.
  • It does not mention tobacco because it was not introduced or widespread at the time.
• Portuguese Influence:
  • The Portuguese were responsible for introducing several new crops to India, including tobacco, maize, and cashew nuts.
  • The introduction of these crops had a significant impact on Indian agriculture and cuisine.

The correct answer is He was responsible for keeping strict watch over proper maintenance of the sanctioned size of armed contingents and war equipage by the mansabdars..

Key Points

• The Bakshi was a high-ranking official in the Mughal military administration.
• His primary role was to ensure that the mansabdars maintained their assigned military contingents and war equipment according to their rank.
• He monitored the muster rolls and inspected the troops to verify the actual number of soldiers and equipment.
• The Bakshi also played a crucial role in organizing the logistics for military campaigns, including the supply of provisions and weapons.
• He reported directly to the emperor and was a key figure in maintaining the efficiency and readiness of the Mughal army.

Additional Information

• Mansabdari System:
  • Introduced by Akbar, the Mansabdari system was a bureaucratic structure for managing the nobility and the military.
  • Mansabdars were ranked officials who were assigned a specific number of troops and responsibilities.
  • Ranks ranged from 10 to 10,000, and higher ranks were associated with greater responsibilities and privileges.
  • Mansabdars were paid through revenue assignments called jagirs.
• Diwan-i-Wazarat:
  • The Diwan-i-Wazarat was responsible for revenue and finances in the Mughal administration.
  • This department supervised the collection of taxes and managed the imperial treasury.
  • The head of the Diwan-i-Wazarat was known as the Wazir or the Diwan.
• Mir Bakshi:
  • The Mir Bakshi was another key official in the Mughal military administration.
  • He was responsible for the administration of the military payroll and the assignment of jagirs to the mansabdars.
  • The Mir Bakshi also managed the recruitment and training of soldiers.
• Imperial Military Structure:
  • The Mughal military was a well-organized force with a hierarchical structure.
  • It included various regiments such as infantry, cavalry, artillery, and elephant corps.
  • The military hierarchy ensured efficient command and control during campaigns.

The correct answer is: '4) (B), (D) and (E) only'.

Key Points

• Zamindars could sell, bequeath or mortgage the milkiyat lands.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Zamindars had proprietary rights over the milkiyat lands, meaning they could sell, mortgage, or pass on these lands to their heirs.
• Most Zamindars had fortresses as well as armed contingents.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Zamindars often had fortresses to protect their lands and maintain their authority. They also maintained armed contingents to enforce their control and safeguard their interests.
• Control over military resources was another source of power for the Zamindars.
  • This statement is correct.
  • Zamindars' control over military resources provided them with significant power and autonomy, enabling them to exert influence and maintain their position within the local hierarchy.

Incorrect Statements

• Milkiyat lands were cultivated for the general use of the people.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • Milkiyat lands were typically private lands owned by zamindars and not meant for general public use. They were used for the zamindar's personal benefit.
• Zamindars collected revenue on behalf of themselves.
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • While zamindars had significant authority, they primarily collected revenue on behalf of the state. They were intermediaries between the peasants and the state revenue system.

Hence, Statements (B), (D), and (E) are correct, while Statements (A) and (C) are incorrect.

Additional Information

• Zamindari System:
  • The zamindari system was a land revenue system in British India where zamindars acted as intermediaries between the government and the peasants.
  • Zamindars were responsible for collecting taxes from the peasants and passing them on to the colonial administration.
• Role of Zamindars:
  • Zamindars played a significant role in rural administration, maintaining law and order, and managing agricultural production.
  • Their power and influence were often bolstered by their control over land and military resources.