Which member of Shivaji’s ‘Ashtapradhan’ (Council of Eight Ministers) looked after foreign affairs?
The member of Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan who looked after foreign affairs was the Sumant, also known as the Dabir. His duties included advising the Chhatrapati on relations with other states organizing foreign intelligence and handling diplomatic correspondence, ensuring effective communication with neighbouring powers like the Mughals and the Deccan Sultanates. Answer is (B) Sumant
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The minister responsible for foreign affairs in Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan was the Sumant (or Dabir). His primary role was to serve as the Foreign Secretary, advising the Chhatrapati on matters of war and peace, receiving ambassadors and maintaining diplomatic relations with all the surrounding kingdoms and the Mughals. The Sumant‘s duties were crucial for a nascent state like the Maratha kingdom, which required shrewd diplomacy to navigate the constant pressures from major powers like the Mughal Empire and the Portuguese.