Role of Qanungo in Mughal Revenue Administration
In the Mughal revenue administration, the Qanungo played a pivotal role, especially at the Paragana (or taluq) level, which was crucial for maintaining records and ensuring efficient revenue collection.
Responsibilities of Qanungo:
- Record Keeping:
The Qanungo was primarily responsible for maintaining land records, which included details about land ownership, the area under cultivation, and the types of crops grown.
- Revenue Assessment:
They assisted in assessing the revenue that was to be collected from each landholder, ensuring that the amounts were fair and in accordance with the established norms.
- Reporting to Higher Officials:
The Qanungo acted as a liaison between the villagers and higher authorities, reporting on agricultural yields and any issues faced by the farmers, thereby facilitating effective communication.
- Supervision of Patwaris:
While patwaris were responsible for local record-keeping at the village level, the Qanungo supervised their work and ensured accuracy and consistency in the records maintained.
Importance of Qanungo in Administration:
- Efficiency in Revenue Collection:
By maintaining detailed and accurate records, Qanungos played a significant role in enhancing the efficiency of revenue collection, which was essential for the Mughal economy.
- Support to Administration:
Their work provided crucial statistical data that supported policies and decisions made by the Mughal administration.
In conclusion, the Qanungo was indispensable in the Mughal revenue system, as they ensured that the records at the Paragana level were maintained effectively, thereby contributing to the overall stability and efficiency of the administration.

At the Paragana level, the Qanungo, a hereditary officer, was responsible for maintaining records related to revenue and played a crucial role in the Mughal revenue administration.