UPPCS Pre 1990

Pillars of Mughal Stability

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Causes of Akbar's popularity were- A. Mansabdari system B. Religious policy C. Land Revenue System D. Social reforms

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Akbar is the only Mughal emperor titled 'The Great,' a status earned through a holistic approach to governance that satisfied the military, the peasantry, and the general public.

Explanation Akbar’s popularity rested on: 1. Mansabdari (merit-based bureaucracy); 2. Religious Policy (abolition of Jizya and interfaith dialogue); 3. Land Revenue (the scientific Zabti system of Todar Mal); and 4. Social Reforms (banning child marriage and discouraging Sati).

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: By satisfying the Hindu majority through religious freedom and the nobility through merit-based ranks, he built a broad base of support.
Logic 2: Economic stability from his revenue reforms ensured that the peasantry was not exploited beyond endurance, contributing to long-term domestic peace.

Active Recall

Question

What was the significance of Akbar's social reforms?

Answer

They showed that the Emperor cared for the welfare of his subjects as individuals, regardless of their religious laws.

Core Insight

Akbar's success was based on the realization that an empire cannot be sustained by the sword alone; it requires the 'consent of the governed' through justice and inclusivity.