Previous lectures focused on the Mansabdar system during Mughal rule.
Mansabdars: Rankholders defined by two numbers: Zat (position in court) and Sawar (cavalry command).
Salaries paid from revenue from assigned land, known as Jagir.
Relationship between Jagir and Mansabdar Systems
Jagir and Mansabdar systems are interdependent; both mobilize resources and distribute them among nobles.
High nobles consume a large portion of resources.
Jagir System Overview
Jagir system assigns revenue from land produce to nobles but does not transfer land ownership.
Revenue allocation serves as salary for Mansabdars.
Historical Context
Babur's system (Waja) distributed one-third of conquered areas among local elites, with Afghans receiving a large share.
Jagir system arose post-Babur, differentiating from Waja, separating executive and financial powers.
Akbar significantly reformed and structured the Jagir system.
Problems within Jagir System
Revenue Collection Issues
Jagir holders must comply with central regulations.
Estimation (Jamad Dami) often exceeds actual revenue collected (Hasil).
Crops and Yield Differences
Incorrect assumptions about crop yields impacted revenue across regions.
Transferability of Jagirs
Jagirs are generally transferred every three years, complicating revenue collection and consistency.
Types of Jagirs
Jagir Tanga (Rupy Jagir)
Normal Jagir tied to salary and collected from revenue of land produce.
Mash Jar
Temporary jagir granted to Mansabdars for specific high obligations.
Inam Jagir
Given to religious individuals for charity, usually tax-free.
Wan Jagir
Hereditary jagir requiring imperial sanction for succession, non-transferable.
Rights and Responsibilities of Jagirdars
Jagirdars hold rights to collect revenue as per assigned salary and administer jagir affairs.
Face challenges due to lack of local knowledge and traditions upon posting.
Administrative Structure of Jagir System
Higher Administrative Levels: Subdivided into Imperial staff (Sadar, Kanungo, etc.) and local staff.
Staff Roles:
Amil: Manages the jagir and revenue collection.
Fidar: Oversees finances.
Kanungo: Record keeper, essential for local traditions and data.
Chor Kanungo: Assists in local administrative functions.
Conclusion
The Jagir and Mansabdar systems are intricate, with significant historical implications on resource mobilization and administration in the Mughal Empire.