Structure of Government under Akbar: Central and Provincial Administration | UPSC History

During the reign of Emperor Akbar, the Mughal Empire witnessed a well-organized and efficient system of governance

Central Administration:

Imperial Court:

• The center of power was the imperial court, where Akbar made important decisions and received counsel from his ministers.
• The court was a hub of cultural and political activities, with nobles, poets, scholars, and diplomats in attendance.

Council of Ministers:

• Akbar appointed a group of competent and trusted ministers to assist him in governing the empire.
• These ministers held various portfolios, such as finance, military affairs, justice, and foreign relations.

Divan-i-Arz:

• It was a department responsible for military administration, led by the Mir Bakshi.
• The Divan-i-Arz maintained records of soldiers, their salaries, promotions, and other military affairs.

Diwan-i-Wazarat:

• This department dealt with financial matters and was headed by the Wazir or Prime Minister.
• The Diwan-i-Wazarat managed revenue collection, taxation, and distribution of resources.

Diwan-i-Insha:

• The Diwan-i-Insha was responsible for the imperial correspondence, maintaining records, and issuing official orders and edicts.

Provincial Administration:

Subahs:

• The empire was divided into several provinces called subahs, each headed by a Subahdar or governor.
• The Subahdar had both administrative and military responsibilities, ensuring law and order, tax collection, and defense.

Faujdars:

• Faujdars were military officers appointed in each district within a province.
• They maintained peace, controlled local militias, and reported to the Subahdar.

Diwan-i-Subah:

• The Diwan-i-Subah managed the revenue and taxation system within the province.
• It assessed land revenue, monitored agricultural production, and ensured a fair collection of taxes.

Qazi:

• Qazis were appointed to administer justice at the local level.
• They resolved civil and criminal cases based on Islamic law and local customs.

Zamindars:

• Zamindars were influential landowners who played a significant role in revenue collection and local governance.
• They were responsible for maintaining law and order in their territories and managing agricultural activities.

Under Emperor Akbar’s rule, the structure of government in the Mughal Empire was characterized by a centralized authority with a well-defined hierarchy and efficient administration. The central administration, led by a council of ministers, managed various departments responsible for finance, military affairs, and imperial correspondence

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