The correct option is Revenue assessed in cash.
Explanation
The Ain-i Akbari, part of the Akbarnama written by Abu’l-Fazl, serves as a comprehensive gazetteer of the Mughal Empire under Akbar. It details the administrative hierarchy, army, and revenue systems. A central feature of the Mughal agrarian system was the monetization of the economy and the preference for revenue collection in cash.
Analysis of the Term
- Meaning of Naqdi: The term is derived from the word Naqd, which means "cash." In the context of the revenue administration described in the Ain-i Akbari, Naqdi refers to the system where land revenue was assessed and demanded in cash.
- Contrast with Kind: This is distinct from systems like Batai or Galla-bakhshi (crop-sharing), where the state's share was assessed in kind (physical produce). Under the Zabti system, the state converted the share of produce into money based on prevailing price schedules, making it a Naqdi assessment.
- Analysis of Other Options:
- Revenue assessed in kind: Revenue assessed in kind is referred to as Jins or collected through Batai.
- Land grants to religious men: Land grants to religious men or learned scholars were known as Madad-i-Maash or Suyurghal.
- Military commanders paid in land: Military commanders paid in land assignments were Jagirdars. While the term Naqdi was also used for Mansabdars paid in cash salaries, the option incorrectly defines it as payment in "land."
Key Takeaway: In the Mughal revenue vocabulary, Naqdi signifies the cash nexus, specifically the assessment or payment of revenue in money rather than in grain.