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Examine the role played by zamindars in Mughal India . |
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Answer» Solution :The zamindars were the people who did not DIRECTLY PARTICIPATE in the processes of agricultural production, but they enjoyed high statusin the society. (i) The zamindars considered their land as their property (milkiyat). They had control to sell, give and MORTAGE theirproperty. (ii)They enjoyed many social and economic privileges because oftheir superior status in society. (iii)The zamindars belongedto the upper caste whichadded to theirexalted statusin society. (iv) The zamindars rendered certain services (khidmat) for the state. As a result of theirservicetheyreceived and attained higher positionin the state. (v)The zamindars had the right to collect REVENUE on behalf ofthe state and also received financial compensation for thiswork . (vi)The zamindars hadkept strict control over the military resources of the state. They kept a FORTRESS and a well-knit armed unit comprisingcavalry, artillery and infantry. (vii)The zamindars also played significant role in developing theagricultural land. Theyhelpedin the settlements of farmers by leading them money and agricultural instruments. (viii)Itresulted in an increase in agriculturalproduce and the sale and purchase of land by the zamindars. There are also evidences that the zamindars held bazaars . The farmers cameto thesevazaars to sell their crops. (ix)If we observe social relation ofvillage of Mughal age as a pyramid, then zamindars were at thetop. They occupiedthe highest position in the society. (x)Nodoubt the zamindars exploited the people buttheir relations withthe farmersdepended on their mutualtogetheressand hereditary patronage. So, theywere able to getpeasants in case ofcase of the revolt against thestate. |
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