Mughal Administration|| Indian Administration || Lecture 04 || Free UPSC Preparation Video Lecture | Public Administration Optional for UPSC (Videos)

Ans. The Mughal Administration refers to the system of governance established by the Mughal Empire in India during the 16th to 18th centuries. It was known for its centralized and bureaucratic nature, with the emperor at the top of the hierarchy and various officials and departments responsible for the administration of different regions and aspects of governance.

Ans. The Mughal Administration functioned through a well-organized system of governance. The emperor exercised ultimate authority and was supported by various officials such as the Diwan (finance minister), Mir Bakshi (military head), and Sadr-us-Sudur (chief religious officer). The empire was divided into provinces, each headed by a governor known as Subahdar or Nizam. The provinces were further divided into districts and sub-districts, each with its administrative officers. Revenue collection, justice administration, and military affairs were key components of the Mughal Administration.

Ans. The Mughal Administration had a significant impact on Indian society. It brought about administrative efficiency and stability, leading to economic growth and cultural development. The empire's revenue system, which was based on land taxation, helped in the establishment of a strong economy. The administration also patronized art, architecture, and literature, resulting in the emergence of magnificent structures like the Taj Mahal and the growth of Urdu as a language. However, the Mughal Administration also faced challenges such as regional conflicts and the decline of the empire towards the end of the 18th century.

Ans. The key features of the Mughal Administration were: 1. Centralized Authority: The emperor held supreme power and had control over various aspects of governance. 2. Bureaucratic Structure: The administration had a hierarchical structure with officials at different levels responsible for specific tasks. 3. Provincial System: The empire was divided into provinces, each headed by a governor who oversaw the administration of the region. 4. Land Revenue System: The Mughal Administration relied on a land taxation system known as the Zamindari system to collect revenue. 5. Military Organization: The empire had a well-organized military system, with the emperor as the supreme commander and various ranks of officers serving under him.

Ans. The Mughal Administration faced several challenges during its reign. Some of the major challenges include: 1. Regional Conflicts: The vast empire faced rebellions and conflicts from regional rulers, leading to instability and threats to the empire's unity. 2. Succession Issues: The Mughal Empire witnessed succession disputes, resulting in power struggles and weak leadership at times. 3. Financial Burden: The empire's military campaigns and extravagant lifestyle of the Mughal court put a significant strain on the economy, leading to financial difficulties. 4. Decline of Central Authority: Towards the later years of the empire, the central authority weakened, and regional governors gained more autonomy, contributing to the empire's decline. 5. External Invasions: The Mughal Empire faced invasions from foreign powers such as the Marathas and the British, further destabilizing the administration and leading to the eventual downfall of the empire.