Read the statement below and choose the correct answer: 1. Not all the Mansabdars were military officers. 2. Those who held high civil posts under the Mughals were also mansabdars and were graded accordingly.
R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre) 2013
A. both 1 and 2 are false
B. both 1 and 2 are true
C. 1 is true, while 2 is false
D. 1 is false, while 2 is true
Answer: both 1 and 2 are true
Option b is the correct answer.
Statement (A) is true: Not all mansabdars were military officers. For example, the diwan was the chief financial officer of the Mughal Empire. He was responsible for collecting revenue, maintaining accounts, and disbursing funds. The diwan was a mansabdar of the highest rank, but he did not have any military responsibilities.
Statement (B) is true: The mansab of a civil officer was determined by the importance of his position and the amount of revenue he was responsible for collecting. Mir bakhshi, highest-ranking, managed army operations. Faujdar, middle-ranking, governed provinces and ensured defense and order.
Important Tips
Features of Mansabdari System:
Meaning: Introduced by Akbar in the Mughal Empire, it determined the rank and status of officials and military commanders. The term "mansab" originated from Arabic, signifying rank or position. Rank-Based System: Every civil and military officer received a mansab, outlining their salary, allowances, and responsibilities. Mansabdar Role: Mansabdars were military commanders, high officers, and provincial governors. Rank Titles: Mansabdars were titled "Amir" for ranks up to 1,000, "Amir-al Kabir" (Great Amir) for higher ranks, and "Amir-al Umara" (Amir of A:airs) for the greatest. Jagir Grant: Nobles received revenue assignments (jagirs) for services, with the king retaining direct control.
Grades and Numbers: Asad Yar Jung noted 66 mansab grades, but around 33 were practically used. Ranks ranged from ten to 5,000 (later raised to 7,000 and 10,000). Special Cases: Higher ranks granted to princes and Rajput rulers acknowledging imperial suzerainty.