Question

Which one of the following statements is most appropriate regarding the zamindars of 16\textsuperscript{th and 17\textsuperscript{th} century India?}

• A. The zamindars were the exploitative class for the peasants.
• B. The zamindars collected revenue on behalf of the state.
• C. They always maintained cordial relations with the villagers.
• D. The zamindars had small piece of lands for personal use.

Hint:

When in doubt about zamindars' roles in the Mughal era, remember: they were revenue collectors for the state—not just landowners or local influencers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Zamindars were integral to the Mughal administrative and agrarian system in the 16th and 17th centuries, functioning as intermediaries between the state and cultivators. Their primary responsibility was the collection of land revenue for the state.
Despite often possessing considerable land and local influence, their principal administrative function was revenue collection. They received a share of the collected revenue as compensation.
While individual zamindars varied in their dealings with villagers, exhibiting exploitative tendencies or maintaining varied relationships, these descriptions are not universally applicable. Option (B) provides the most accurate and general representation of their institutional function during that era.