Who were ‘Jagirdars’ during the reign of Akbar?

Q. Who were ‘Jagirdars’ during the reign of Akbar?

(a) Large estate owners

(b) Officials of state who were given ‘jagir’ in place of cash pay

(c) Revenue collectors

(d) Autonomous rulers under Akbar

Ans: (b) Officials of state who were given ‘jagir’ in place of cash pay

Explanation: During the reign of Akbar, ‘Jagirdars’ were (b) officials of the state who were given ‘jagir’ in place of cash pay.

Jagirs were land grants given by the Mughal emperor to nobles, officials, and military officers in return for their services. These land grants, known as jagirs, provided a source of income and sustenance for the recipients. The jagirdars were the individuals who received these jagirs from the emperor.

Jagirdars were typically appointed as officials of the state and were responsible for administering the assigned lands. They collected revenue from the jagir lands and managed the local administration under the authority of the Mughal Empire. The jagirdars played a crucial role in maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and supporting the imperial administration.

It is important to note that while jagirdars held significant power and authority within their assigned territories, they were not autonomous rulers (d) under Akbar. They operated within the framework of the Mughal administrative system and were accountable to the central authority.

Therefore, the correct answer to your question is (b) officials of the state who were given ‘jagir’ in place of cash pay.