Q. In the context of the 'Mansabdari System' of the Mughals, why was the distinction between 'Zat' and 'Sawar' ranks crucial for the stability of the empire?

1. It allowed the Emperor to fix the personal status of the officer independently of his military obligation.
2. It prevented military commanders from becoming too powerful by limiting their actual troop strength relative to their pay.
3. It ensured that all Mansabdars were paid in cash to prevent the rise of landed feudal lords.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: 1 and 2 only
Notes: Zat indicated the personal rank and salary of a Mansabdar, while Sawar specified the number of cavalrymen to be maintained, thus balancing status and military obligation. Statement 3 is incorrect because most Mansabdars were paid through Jagirs (land assignments), not cash. This land-based payment system often weakened central authority over time.