The correct option is A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
Explanation
The Mansabdari System was the administrative backbone of the Mughal Empire, institutionalized by Akbar in 1571. It was a unique system that organized the nobility and the army into a single unified bureaucratic structure. The term 'Mansab' is of Arabic origin, meaning 'rank' or 'position'.
Analysis of Terms
- A. Mansab (Position or Rank): The word 'Mansab' literally denotes a place, position, or rank. In the Mughal administration, it determined the status of a government official (Mansabdar) in the official hierarchy.
- B. Zat (Numerical value for salary/status): The rank was divided into two designations: Zat and Sawar. The Zat rank was the personal rank of the official. It determined his personal status in the court hierarchy and his personal salary.
- C. Jagir (Revenue assignment): Mansabdars were paid either in cash (Naqd) or through the assignment of revenue rights over specific lands, known as Jagirs. The holder of a Jagir was authorized to collect land revenue equivalent to his salary but did not own the land.
- D. Sawar (Cavalrymen): The Sawar rank indicated the number of cavalrymen (horsemen) and horses the Mansabdar was required to maintain for the state service. The salary for the maintenance of these troops was calculated separately based on the Sawar rank.
Matching:
- A matches with 3 (Position or rank).
- B matches with 2 (Numerical value for salary).
- C matches with 1 (Revenue assignment).
- D matches with 4 (Cavalrymen).
Key Takeaway: The Mansabdari system was not hereditary; appointments and dismissals were made directly by the Emperor. The dual rank system (Zat for personal status/salary and Sawar for military obligation) allowed the Emperor to fine-tune the hierarchy and military strength.