[Solved] Role of Mir Bakshi in Akbar's Administration

Role of Mir Bakshi in Akbar's Administration

The Mir Bakshi was the head of the military department in Akbar's administration. He was responsible for supervising the army, managing the Mansabdari rankings, and acting as the imperial paymaster.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII: Themes in Indian History - Part II

Archived: 1997

Updated: 19 Jan 2026

The head of the military department under the recognized central machinery of administration during Akbar's reign was:

[UPSC CSE Pre 1997]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Akbar’s central government was divided into departments, each headed by a minister. The military department was unique because it also managed the rankings and salaries of all civil and military officers (Mansabdars).

Authentic Source Evidence

The Mir Bakshi was the supreme head of the military department. His responsibilities included recruiting soldiers, supervising the branding of horses (Dag), maintaining the descriptive rolls of soldiers (Chehra), and acting as the chief paymaster and intelligence officer.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The Diwan was the finance minister. Mir Saman looked after the royal household and factories.

Logic 2: Although 'Bakshi' refers to a paymaster at the provincial level, the Mir Bakshi was the 'Head' at the central imperial level, reporting directly to the Emperor.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Did the Mir Bakshi actually lead troops in battle?"

Yes, while primarily an administrator, the Mir Bakshi often personally led imperial armies during major military campaigns.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The Mir Bakshi was arguably the second most powerful man in the empire because he controlled the personnel and payroll of the entire ruling elite."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Wazir 3 Mansabdari System 4

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