1. All of the above statements are true concerning Shivaji’s progressive land revenue system. The system was based on actual measurement, for which he introduced the use of measuring rods and standard sticks. He followed the Ryotwari system, dealing directly with the cultivators and largely suppressingRead more

    All of the above statements are true concerning Shivaji’s progressive land revenue system. The system was based on actual measurement, for which he introduced the use of measuring rods and standard sticks. He followed the Ryotwari system, dealing directly with the cultivators and largely suppressing the intermediaries. The initial revenue rate was 33%, which was scientifically assessed and later increased to 40% to meet the rising costs of the state, ensuring both fairness to the peasant and a reliable income for the state.

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  2. The Maratha dynasty collected 'Chauth', which constituted one-fourth (25%) of the land revenue. This tax was a strategic and economic tool: it was collected from adjacent Mughal territories and Deccan states in exchange for a Maratha guarantee of protection from internal disturbances and external raRead more

    The Maratha dynasty collected ‘Chauth’, which constituted one-fourth (25%) of the land revenue. This tax was a strategic and economic tool: it was collected from adjacent Mughal territories and Deccan states in exchange for a Maratha guarantee of protection from internal disturbances and external raids. The collection of Chauth formalized the Marathas’ role as power brokers in the Deccan and beyond, demonstrating their ability to dictate terms even outside their formal borders.

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  3. 'Sardeshmukhi' was an additional levy, constituting 10% of the land revenue, collected by Shivaji and his successors. This levy was based on the assertion that the Maratha ruler was the hereditary Sardeshmukh of the entire Deccan. Unlike Chauth, which was military protection money, Sardeshmukhi wasRead more

    ‘Sardeshmukhi’ was an additional levy, constituting 10% of the land revenue, collected by Shivaji and his successors. This levy was based on the assertion that the Maratha ruler was the hereditary Sardeshmukh of the entire Deccan. Unlike Chauth, which was military protection money, Sardeshmukhi was a claim of sovereign or proprietary right over the land. Its collection was a bold and direct challenge to the territorial sovereignty of the Mughal Emperor.

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  4. During the Maratha period, the cavalry was organized into two main groups. The Paga (or Bargir) constituted the permanent state cavalry. These troopers received their horses, arms and maintenance directly from the state and were paid a regular salary. The Silahdar constituted the temporary cavalry.Read more

    During the Maratha period, the cavalry was organized into two main groups. The Paga (or Bargir) constituted the permanent state cavalry. These troopers received their horses, arms and maintenance directly from the state and were paid a regular salary. The Silahdar constituted the temporary cavalry. These soldiers owned their own horses and equipment and were typically attached to the army during campaigns, reflecting a more feudal or semi-feudal arrangement.

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  5. In the Maratha cavalry, the lowest commissioned officer, the Havaldar, was in command of a unit of 25 cavalrymen. This decimal organization was a hallmark of Shivaji’s military reforms. Above the Havaldar were the Jumledar (commanding five Havaldars), the Hazari (commanding ten Jumledars) and so on.Read more

    In the Maratha cavalry, the lowest commissioned officer, the Havaldar, was in command of a unit of 25 cavalrymen. This decimal organization was a hallmark of Shivaji’s military reforms. Above the Havaldar were the Jumledar (commanding five Havaldars), the Hazari (commanding ten Jumledars) and so on. . This standardized, structured hierarchy ensured excellent discipline and rapid maneuverability, contributing significantly to their military success.

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