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UPPCS Pre 2015

South Indian Political Systems

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Polygars of South India were:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Polygars (or Palayakkars) were a vital link in the decentralized political structure of South India, acting as semi-independent feudal lords who provided military service in exchange for revenue rights.

Explanation Originally appointed by the Vijayanagara Empire and later the Nayaka rulers, Polygars functioned as territorial governors. They held judicial power, collected taxes, and maintained standing armies. They gained significant autonomy as central powers weakened.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: They were not just 'landlords' (zamindars) but had specific military obligations and administrative control over 'Palayams' (territorial units).
Logic 2: Their resistance to British taxation later led to the famous Polygar Wars (1799–1805), highlighting their role as political and military leaders.

Active Recall

Question

What led to the conflict between Polygars and the British?

Answer

The British East India Company attempted to bypass the Polygars and collect taxes directly from peasants, which the Polygars saw as an infringement on their traditional sovereign rights.

Core Insight

Polygars represented a 'military-fiscal' elite that maintained regional order for centuries before the advent of colonial centralization.

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