Main Income Source of the Mughal Empire
The Mughal Empire, which thrived in the Indian subcontinent from the early 16th to the 19th century, had a complex economy with various sources of income. However, the primary source of revenue was land revenue.
Land Revenue System
- The Mughal Empire implemented a sophisticated land revenue system known as "Zabt."
- This system involved the assessment of land based on its productivity and the collection of taxes from farmers.
- The tax rate was typically one-third of the agricultural produce, but it could vary depending on the region and crop.
Importance of Agriculture
- Agriculture was the backbone of the Mughal economy, as the majority of the population was engaged in farming.
- The fertile plains of the Ganges and Indus rivers contributed to high agricultural yields.
- The revenue collected from agriculture funded the empire’s military, administration, and infrastructure projects.
Comparison with Other Sources
- While trade, foreign aid, and industrial output contributed to the empire's wealth, they were not as significant as land revenue.
- Trade did flourish, especially with European powers, but it was often complementary to agricultural revenue rather than a primary source.
- Foreign aid was limited and industrial output, though growing, was still nascent compared to the established agricultural system.
Conclusion
- In summary, land revenue was the cornerstone of the Mughal Empire's economy, ensuring stability and supporting the vast administrative and military needs of the empire.

The main income source for the Mughal Empire was land revenue collected from peasants and agricultural products.