Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 358

WHICH MUGHAL EMPEROR FOLLOWED SHER SHAH SURI'S IDEA OF ADMINISTRATION

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the reforms and administrative practices of the Mughal emperors.

Correct Answer: C) AKBAR

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, Bank PO

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Mughal Empire, founded by Babur in the early 16th century, was a significant and influential dynasty in the history of India. The empire's administrative structure evolved over time, with each emperor contributing to its development. One of the most notable contributions to Mughal administration came from Akbar, the third Mughal emperor, who adopted and expanded upon the administrative ideas of Sher Shah Suri, a powerful Afghan ruler who preceded the Mughals.

Sher Shah Suri, who ruled from 1540 to 1545, implemented a series of administrative reforms that were highly effective. These reforms included the establishment of a centralized administrative system, the introduction of a uniform system of land revenue, and the creation of a well-organized postal system. His administrative practices were known for their efficiency and effectiveness, which laid the foundation for future rulers to build upon.

Akbar, who ascended the throne in 1556, recognized the potential of Sher Shah Suri's administrative ideas and incorporated them into his own system. One of the most significant reforms Akbar implemented was the Mansabdari system, which was a hierarchical system of administration based on the rank and military service of officials. This system was influenced by Sher Shah Suri's practices and helped to centralize power and improve the efficiency of the Mughal administration.

Under the Mansabdari system, officials were assigned a rank (mansab) based on their military service and were responsible for maintaining a certain number of troops. This system not only helped to maintain a strong military force but also provided a structured hierarchy within the administration. Akbar's reforms were instrumental in creating a stable and efficient administrative system that contributed to the prosperity and longevity of the Mughal Empire.

While other Mughal emperors such as Babur and Humayun did not implement significant administrative reforms influenced by Sher Shah Suri, Akbar's reign is particularly noted for its administrative innovations. Jahangir, Akbar's son, continued some of his father's practices but did not initiate the specific reforms that were influenced by Sher Shah Suri. Therefore, Akbar is recognized as the Mughal emperor who followed Sher Shah Suri's idea of administration.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Babur was the founder of the Mughal Empire and did not follow Sher Shah Suri's administrative ideas. Babur's focus was on establishing the empire rather than implementing detailed administrative reforms.
  • Option B: Humayun, Babur's son, was more concerned with reclaiming his throne after his exile and did not have the opportunity to implement significant administrative reforms. His reign was marked by instability and conflict.
  • Option C: Akbar, the third Mughal emperor, adopted and expanded upon the administrative ideas of Sher Shah Suri. He implemented the Mansabdari system, which was influenced by Sher Shah Suri's practices. Akbar's reign is known for its administrative efficiency and stability.
  • Option D: Jahangir, Akbar's son, continued some of his father's administrative practices but did not initiate the reforms that were influenced by Sher Shah Suri. Jahangir's reign was more focused on maintaining the empire's stability and cultural development.

Mnemonic: A for Akbar, A for Administration

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