[Solved] Sumant in Shivaji's Ashtapradhan: Role and Duties

The member of Shivaji's Ashtapradhan who looked after foreign affairs was:

[UPSC CSE Previous Year]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Shivaji Maharaj established a council of eight ministers, known as the Ashtapradhan, to assist in the efficient governance of the Maratha state. Each minister was assigned a specific portfolio to ensure a decentralized and organized administration.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Sumant (also known as the Dabir) was the minister in charge of foreign affairs. His duties included managing relationships with other powers, receiving foreign ambassadors, and advising the King on matters of diplomacy and war.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: The Peshwa was the Prime Minister responsible for general administration. The Sachiv looked after royal correspondence. Pandit Rao handled religious and social matters.

Logic 2: Therefore, the Sumant was the specific official tasked with the 'Dabir' or foreign diplomatic role, acting as the state's external face.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"How did the Ashtapradhan differ from the later Peshwa-led government?"

In Shivaji's time, the ministers were secretaries who reported directly to the King; later, the Peshwas became the actual hereditary rulers of the state.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The presence of a dedicated minister for foreign affairs (Sumant) shows that Shivaji viewed the Maratha state as a sovereign entity with formal diplomatic standing."

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