Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Mansabdari System of Mughal Empire:
- Rank and salary of Mansabdars were determined by a numerical value called Zat.
- Mansabdars had to maintain a specified number of Sawar or cavalrymen.
Which of the above is / are correct?
Answer:
Both 1 and 2
Notes: The term mansabdar refers to an individual who holds a mansab, meaning a position or rank. It was a grading system used by the Mughals to fix (1) rank, (2) salary and (3) military responsibilities. Rank and salary were determined by a numerical value called zat. The higher the zat, the more prestigious was the noble's position in court and the larger his salary. The mansabdar’s military responsibilities required him to maintain a specified number of sawar or cavalrymen. The mansabdar brought his cavalrymen for review, got them registered, their horses branded and then received money to pay them as salary.