The post of ‘Pratinidhi’ (The Viceroy or Representative of the King), which was superior to the Peshwa, was created by Rajaram, the second son of Shivaji. He created the post to balance the power of the Peshwa and to strengthen the central command structure during the Maratha War of Independence against the Mughals. ANSWER: (D) Rajaram
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The post of ‘Pratinidhi’ was created by Rajaram in 1689 during the period of intense Maratha War of Independence following Sambhaji’s execution. Rajaram elevated Pantoji Gopinath to this new position. The Pratinidhi was placed above the Peshwa and the other ministers, effectively decentralizing power. Rajaram created this office to ensure loyalty during the Mughal invasion and to establish a figurehead authority while he was constantly on the move, maintaining the resistance.