Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 170

..... department concerned with military affairs.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the role of military affairs in the Mughal administration.

Correct Answer: C) Diwan-i-arz

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Mughal Empire, which ruled much of the Indian subcontinent from the 16th to the 19th century, had a highly structured administrative system. This system was divided into several departments, each with specific responsibilities. Understanding the roles of these departments is crucial for comprehending the functioning of the Mughal state.

One of the most important departments was the Diwan-i-arz, which was responsible for military affairs. The term "arz" in Persian means "army" or "military," and the Diwan-i-arz was the central office that managed all military-related matters. This included the recruitment, training, and maintenance of the army, as well as the planning and execution of military campaigns. The head of this department was known as the Mir Bakshi, who was one of the most powerful officials in the Mughal administration.

Other important departments included the Diwan-i-wizarat, which was responsible for finance and revenue collection. The Diwan-i-risalat was in charge of religious affairs and the administration of religious institutions, while the Diwan-i-insha dealt with the preparation of royal farmans (orders) and correspondence. Each of these departments played a crucial role in the functioning of the Mughal state, but the Diwan-i-arz was specifically concerned with military matters.

It is important to distinguish between these departments to avoid confusion. For example, the Diwan-i-wizarat, while a powerful department, was not involved in military affairs. Similarly, the Diwan-i-risalat and Diwan-i-insha had distinct roles that did not overlap with military responsibilities. Therefore, the correct answer to the question about the department concerned with military affairs is the Diwan-i-arz.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. The Diwan-i-wizarat was responsible for finance and revenue collection, not military affairs.
  • Option B: Incorrect. The Diwan-i-risalat was responsible for religious affairs and the administration of religious institutions, not military matters.
  • Option C: Correct. The Diwan-i-arz was the department concerned with military affairs, including the maintenance of the army and the management of military campaigns.
  • Option D: Incorrect. The Diwan-i-insha was responsible for the preparation of royal farmans (orders) and correspondence, not military matters.

Mnemonic: A-R for Arz, which means army in Persian.

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