Introduction:
The East India Company aimed to establish its authority and control over the zamindars in Bengal during the 18th century. While recognizing the importance of zamindars, the Company devised several measures to subdue their authority and regulate their activities.

Land Revenue System:
The East India Company introduced the Permanent Settlement System in 1793, also known as the Zamindari System, which aimed to establish a fixed revenue collection system. Under this system, the zamindars were appointed as intermediaries between the Company and the farmers. They were responsible for collecting land revenue from the peasants and paying a fixed amount to the Company. This system ensured a regular flow of revenue to the Company while diminishing the control of zamindars over the land and peasants.

Elimination of Privileges:
The East India Company gradually abolished the various privileges enjoyed by zamindars, such as the right to collect additional taxes, administer justice, and maintain their own armed forces. These privileges were gradually transferred to the Company, thus reducing the power and authority of the zamindars.

Appointment of European Collectors:
To further control and regulate the zamindars, the East India Company appointed European collectors to supervise revenue collection and administration. These collectors, being Company officials, ensured that the zamindars followed the Company's directives and did not abuse their power. The collectors also had the authority to dismiss zamindars who failed to meet revenue targets or caused unrest.

Regulation of Land Rights:
The Company introduced regulations to control the transfer of land rights. The zamindars were restricted from selling or mortgaging their lands without the Company's approval. This measure aimed to prevent the consolidation of power in the hands of a few wealthy zamindars and maintain the Company's control over land and revenue collection.

Judicial Reforms:
The East India Company established its own courts and judicial system, bypassing the traditional zamindari courts. This allowed the Company to exercise control over legal matters and diminish the authority of the zamindars in administering justice. The Company's courts were based on English law and ensured a more uniform and efficient administration of justice.

Conclusion:
Through the implementation of the Permanent Settlement System, elimination of privileges, appointment of European collectors, regulation of land rights, and judicial reforms, the East India Company successfully subdued the authority of zamindars in Bengal during the 18th century. These measures aimed to establish the Company's control over land, revenue collection, administration, and the legal system, thereby consolidating its authority in the region.