The Central Structure of the Mughal Rule from 1526_1707 | Original Article

ABSTRACT:

The administrative divisions of the Mughal were based on political as well as economic conditions. The country was broadly divided into Mughal India proper and subordinate states, enjoying varying degrees of independence. The provinces varied greatly in status according to their extent and resources or military and strategic importance. A comparison of their revenue also helps us in forming estimate of the grade of the provinces. Then they were senior and junior grades within the major class of provinces. Lastly, the strategic position of a province determined its status and importance. Akbar's central government consisted of four departments, each presided over by a minister the prime minister (wakil) finance minister (dewan, or wazir) paymaster general (mir bakhshi) and the chief justice and religious official combined (sadr us-sudur). They were appointed, promoted, or dismissed by the emperor, and their duties were well defined.