Mughal Administration - Central and Provincial
The Mughal administrative structure was highly centralized, with all authority flowing from the emperor. The system was a blend of Indian, Persian, and Central Asian elements.
Central Administration
The emperor was the fountainhead of authority, assisted by a council of ministers:
| Minister | Function |
|---|---|
| Vakil / Wazir | Prime Minister, supervised all departments |
| Diwan-i-Ala | Revenue and finance |
| Mir Bakshi | Military paymaster, intelligence |
| Sadr-us-Sadur | Religious endowments, charity, judiciary |
| Khan-i-Saman | Royal household and manufactures |
| Qazi-ul-Quzat | Chief judge |
The Wazir (also called Diwan-i-Kul) headed the revenue department. The Mir Bakshi played a crucial role in managing the mansabdars. All major decisions required imperial approval.
Provincial Administration
Akbar divided the empire into 12 Subahs (provinces), which grew to 21 by Aurangzeb’s time. Each Subah was headed by a Subahdar (governor). The provincial administration mirrored the center:
- Diwan – provincial revenue officer
- Bakshi – provincial military and intelligence
- Sadr – judicial and religious affairs
- Kotwal – town police and market regulation
- Qanungo – land revenue records
The Subah was subdivided into Sarkars and Parganas. At the Pargana level, officials included Shiqdar (executive), Amin (revenue), Fotadar (treasurer), and Karkuns (clerks).
Checks and Balances
Officials were kept in check by:
- Frequent transfers.
- Reporting to multiple departments at the centre (waqai-navis – news reporters).
- The emperor’s personal attention to petitions and complaints.
This complex administrative structure enabled the Mughals to govern a vast and diverse empire effectively for nearly two centuries.