Consider the following statements:
1. Akbar abolished Jizya, the tax on non-Muslims, in 1564.
2. The Mansabdari system, a grading of civil and military officials, was introduced by Shah Jahan.
3. Aurangzeb was the last of the prominent Mughal emperors, and his reign marked the beginning of the decline of the Mughal Empire.
Which of the statements above is/are correct?


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Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Akbar, known for his liberal and inclusive policies, abolished the Jizya tax in 1564 as part of his broader strategy of religious tolerance and Sulh-i-Kul (peace with all).

• The Mansabdari system was introduced by Akbar. It classified officials into 'mansabs' (ranks), determining their status, salary, and number of cavalry they had to maintain.

• Aurangzeb (reigned 1658–1707) was the last powerful Mughal emperor. After his death, the empire began to weaken rapidly, with regional powers asserting independence.

Information Booster:

• Jizya Tax: A per capita yearly tax historically levied on non-Muslim subjects in an Islamic state. Abolished by Akbar to promote secular administration.

Mansabdari System:

Origin & Background:

• Origin: Central Asian, inspired by Mongol military system of Changez Khan (decimal-based).
• Lowest unit: 10 soldiers; highest: 10,000 (Toman) led by a Khan.

Introduction & Expansion under Akbar

• Introduced by Akbar in 1595–96.
• Used to organize nobility, maintain a standing army, and expand empire.
• Dual rank system: Introduced Zat (personal status/pay) and Sawar (cavalry to maintain).

Nature & Structure

• Total grades: Theoretically 66, practically 33 (Abul Fazl).
• Mansab determined:
• Official rank
• Salary
• Military obligation (number of cavalry, horses, equipment)

Hierarchy

Later, those below 1000 were all called Mansabdars.

Rank System

• Ranks assigned in multiples of 10.
• Ranks were given to both civil and military officers.

Compensation

• Two types:
• Naqd (cash)
• Jagir (land grant)

Additional Knowledge:

• Aurangzeb re-imposed the Jizya tax in 1679, which was seen as a move away from Akbar’s secular approach.