Question

Which of the following types of land was cultivated every year without leaving it fallow during the reign of Akbar ?

• A. Chachar
• B. Parauti
• C. Polaj
• D. Banjar

Hint:

Mughal Land Classification Hierarchy (Best to Worst): 1. Polaj (Every year) $\rightarrow$ 2. Parauti (1–2 years fallow) $\rightarrow$ 3. Chachar (3–4 years fallow) $\rightarrow$ 4. Banjar (5+ years fallow).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

During the reign of Akbar, the agrarian economy was meticulously organized and classified based on the fertility and usage of land. The categorization helped in effective land management and taxation. Let's delve into the types of land mentioned in the options and identify which used to be cultivated every year:

1. Polaj: Polaj land was the most fertile and productive among the categories. This type of land was used for cultivation every year without leaving it fallow. It was regularly plowed and tilled, ensuring continuous agricultural production. This ensured a steady revenue from the land, which was crucial for the empire's economy.
2. Chachar: Chachar land was left fallow for a short duration to regain its fertility. It was cultivated once every few years, thereby distinguishing it from Polaj.
3. Parauti: Parauti lands were fallow for a longer duration compared to Chachar lands. These lands required a significant rest period before they were fit for cultivation again.
4. Banjar: Banjar referred to barren lands which were not cultivated regularly. They were only cultivated after a substantial amount of rest and effort to restore soil fertility.

The correct answer is therefore Polaj, as this category of land was cultivated every year without leaving it fallow.