Discuss the nature of revenue farming under Marathas and the Deccan States.

Revenue farming under the Marathas and Deccan States was a distinctive system of revenue administration prevalent in the Deccan region during the 17th and 18th centuries. This system, also known as the 'Khoti' or 'Ijara' system, involved the leasing of revenue rights to private individuals or contractors. Here are key aspects of the nature of revenue farming in the Maratha and Deccan States:

1. Farmans and Grants:

• The Marathas and Deccan States issued 'farmans' or grants to individuals, allowing them to collect revenue from a specific area for a fixed period. These farmans specified the terms and conditions, including the revenue share to be paid to the state.

2. Role of Revenue Contractors:

• Revenue farming involved the appointment of revenue contractors, known as 'Khot' or 'Ijaradar,' who bid for the right to collect revenue from a particular region. These contractors were responsible for revenue collection and remitted a fixed amount to the state.

3. Bid System:

• The revenue contractors participated in a competitive bidding process, where the highest bidder secured the right to collect revenue from a designated territory. This system aimed to generate revenue for the state and encouraged efficiency among contractors.

4. Revenue Collection and Responsibilities:

• Revenue contractors were responsible for assessing and collecting land revenue, including taxes and dues, from the assigned area. They had the authority to manage local administration, settle land disputes, and ensure law and order within their jurisdiction.

5. Challenges and Abuses:

• While revenue farming provided a quick source of revenue for the state, it often led to exploitation and abuse by revenue contractors. Excessive taxation, harassment of peasants, and corruption were common issues associated with the revenue farming system.

6. Regional Variations:

• The nature of revenue farming varied across different regions within the Deccan States. Some areas witnessed efficient and organized revenue collection, while others experienced mismanagement and malpractices.

7. Impact on Peasantry:

• The revenue farming system had a direct impact on the peasantry. Peasants often faced high and arbitrary taxation, leading to economic hardships. The system contributed to discontent among the rural population.

8. Transition to Direct Collection:

• Over time, the Marathas realized the shortcomings of the revenue farming system. There was a gradual shift towards direct revenue collection by the state, aiming to eliminate middlemen and ensure a fairer and more efficient administration.

In conclusion, revenue farming under the Marathas and Deccan States was characterized by the leasing of revenue rights to private contractors. While it provided a source of revenue for the state, the system had inherent challenges, including exploitation of the peasantry and corruption. The transition towards direct revenue collection reflected the evolving administrative practices in the Deccan region during this period.