What was the primary objective of the Mahalwari settlement introduced ...
The Mahalwari Settlement: Overview
The Mahalwari settlement, introduced by Holt Mackenzie in the early 19th century, was a significant land revenue system implemented by the British in India. This system aimed to address the complexities of land revenue collection while preserving the village structure.
Primary Objective: Preservation of the Village System
The primary objective of the Mahalwari settlement was:
- To preserve the village as a social institution: This settlement recognized the village as a fundamental unit of social organization. By doing so, it aimed to maintain the traditional social fabric of rural India.
Key Features of the Mahalwari Settlement
- Revenue Collection from Villages: Instead of collecting revenue from individual landowners, the British collected it at the village level. This approach allowed for a collective responsibility among villagers.
- Role of the Village Headman: The village headman (Mahal) was responsible for ensuring that the revenue was paid, which helped in maintaining local authority and governance.
- Flexibility in Revenue Rates: The settlement allowed for the revision of revenue rates based on the productivity of the land, making it somewhat adaptable to local conditions.
Impact on Zamindars and Landowners
- Reduced Power of Zamindars: Unlike previous systems, the Mahalwari settlement sought to reduce the intermediary role of zamindars, though they still played a part in the administration of land.
In conclusion, while the Mahalwari settlement had multiple features, its core objective was to preserve the village structure as a key social institution, ensuring that local governance and community ties remained intact amidst colonial rule.
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