Fresh Revenue Settlement in 1723 by Saadat Khan

Saadat Khan was the first Nawab of Awadh (1722-1739) appointed by the Mughal Emperor. He was a capable administrator and took several measures to improve the economic condition of Awadh. One such measure was the fresh revenue settlement carried out in 1723.

Reasons for the Revenue Settlement

The revenue settlement was necessary because of the following reasons:

1. The existing revenue system was outdated and ineffective.

2. The revenue collection process was corrupt and inefficient.

3. The revenue rates were arbitrary and unjust.

4. The revenue administration was weak and ineffective.

Features of the Revenue Settlement

The fresh revenue settlement carried out by Saadat Khan had the following features:

1. The revenue rates were fixed based on the nature of the land and the crops grown.

2. The revenue collection process was streamlined and made more efficient.

3. The revenue administration was reorganized and made more accountable.

4. The revenue settlements were made for a period of ten years.

Impact of the Revenue Settlement

The revenue settlement carried out by Saadat Khan had the following impacts:

1. It brought about a significant increase in revenue collection.

2. It improved the economic condition of Awadh.

3. It reduced corruption in the revenue administration.

4. It provided stability and certainty to the revenue system.

Conclusion

The fresh revenue settlement carried out by Saadat Khan in 1723 was a significant reform in the revenue system of Awadh. It brought about several positive changes and improved the economic condition of the region.