Write a short note on revenue administration in Mughal Period.

During the Mughal period, revenue administration played a crucial role in the governance and economic management of the empire. The Mughal rulers established a sophisticated system of revenue collection known as the "Zabt" system, which was characterized by its centralized structure, efficient organization, and reliance on land revenue as the primary source of state income. Here's a brief overview of revenue administration in the Mughal period:

1. Zabt System:
The Zabt system, introduced by Mughal emperor Akbar, was a land revenue system based on fixed assessments and revenue settlements. Under this system, the empire was divided into administrative units called "subas" or provinces, each headed by a provincial governor or "subedar." Revenue officials known as "amils" were appointed to assess and collect revenue from landholders based on the estimated productivity of their lands.

2. Land Revenue Assessment:
Land revenue assessments were based on detailed surveys and measurements of agricultural land, conducted by revenue officials known as "patwaris." The revenue assessment was fixed at a certain percentage of the estimated agricultural produce, typically ranging from one-third to one-half of the total yield. Land revenue was usually collected in cash or kind, with provisions for exemptions or remissions in cases of crop failure or natural disasters.

3. Revenue Collection and Administration:
Revenue collection was supervised by revenue officers at various levels of administration, including district collectors, revenue commissioners, and provincial governors. Revenue records were meticulously maintained, documenting land holdings, assessments, revenue payments, and other relevant details. Revenue administration was supported by a network of officials, accountants, and intermediaries responsible for tax collection, record-keeping, and dispute resolution.

4. Jagirdari System:
In addition to land revenue, the Mughal rulers also introduced the Jagirdari system, under which land grants or "jagirs" were awarded to nobles, officials, and military commanders in exchange for their services to the state. Jagirdars were responsible for collecting revenue from their assigned territories and remitting a portion of it to the imperial treasury. The Jagirdari system served as a means of rewarding and incentivizing loyalty among the nobility, but it also led to issues of absentee landlords and exploitation of peasants.

5. Impact on Economy:
The Mughal revenue administration played a significant role in shaping the agrarian economy of the empire. Land revenue formed the backbone of state finances, funding military expeditions, infrastructure projects, and the lavish lifestyle of the Mughal court. However, excessive taxation, oppressive policies, and mismanagement of revenue administration contributed to agrarian distress, peasant revolts, and ultimately, the decline of the Mughal Empire.

In summary, revenue administration in the Mughal period was characterized by its centralized organization, systematic assessment, and reliance on land revenue as the primary source of state income. While the Zabt system facilitated efficient revenue collection and governance, issues such as over-taxation and exploitation of peasants contributed to economic instability and social unrest in the empire.