21.1 Major administrative & economic policies of Jahangir, Shahjahan and Aurangzeb

I. Introduction

Jahangir (1605-1627)

• Son of Akbar the Great, Jahangir continued his father’s policies of centralization and religious tolerance.
• His reign was marked by a strong centralized administration, with an emphasis on the arts and architecture.
• Jahangir faced several rebellions during his reign, including those led by his son Khusrau and the Sikh leader Guru Arjan Dev.
• He established diplomatic relations with the English East India Company and the Safavid Empire of Persia.

Shahjahan (1628-1658)

• Son of Jahangir, Shahjahan is best known for commissioning the construction of the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
• His reign was marked by further centralization of power and expansion of the empire’s territory.
• Shahjahan faced several challenges, including a rebellion led by his son Aurangzeb and the rise of the Maratha Empire in the Deccan.
• He was eventually overthrown by Aurangzeb and imprisoned in the Agra Fort until his death.

Aurangzeb (1658-1707)

• Son of Shahjahan, Aurangzeb is often considered the last great Mughal emperor.
• His reign was marked by a strict adherence to Islamic law, leading to the reversal of some of his predecessors’ policies of religious tolerance.
• Aurangzeb expanded the empire to its greatest territorial extent, conquering the Deccan and parts of southern India.
• His reign saw the decline of the Mughal Empire, with the rise of regional powers like the Marathas, Sikhs, and Rajputs, and the increasing influence of European powers like the English East India Company.
• Aurangzeb’s death in 1707 marked the beginning of the empire’s decline, eventually leading to its dissolution in the mid-19th century.

II. Jahangir’s Administrative Policies

Central Administration

Role of the Emperor

• Jahangir was the supreme authority in the Mughal Empire, responsible for making final decisions on all matters of state.
• He held daily court sessions called Durbar to discuss and resolve administrative, military, and judicial issues.
• Jahangir delegated authority to various ministers and officials, but maintained ultimate control over the empire’s administration.

Role of the Wazir (Prime Minister)

• The Wazir was the chief minister and advisor to the emperor, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administration of the empire.
• During Jahangir’s reign, the Wazir’s responsibilities included supervising the work of other ministers, coordinating military campaigns, and managing diplomatic relations with other states.
• The Wazir also played a crucial role in maintaining law and order within the empire.

Role of the Diwan (Finance Minister)

• The Diwan was responsible for managing the empire’s finances, including the collection of taxes, disbursement of salaries, and maintenance of financial records.
• Under Jahangir, the Diwan implemented financial reforms to improve tax collection and reduce corruption.
• The Diwan also played a role in promoting trade and commerce, both within the empire and with foreign countries.

Role of the Mir Bakshi (Commander-in-Chief)

• The Mir Bakshi was the highest-ranking military officer in the Mughal Empire, responsible for overseeing the recruitment, training, and deployment of the imperial army.
• During Jahangir’s reign, the Mir Bakshi played a crucial role in suppressing rebellions and maintaining the empire’s territorial integrity.
• The Mir Bakshi also advised the emperor on military strategy and coordinated the activities of the empire’s various military units.

Provincial Administration

Subahs (Provinces) and their Governors

• The Mughal Empire was divided into Subahs (provinces), each governed by a Subedar (governor) appointed by the emperor.
• Subedars were responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and overseeing the administration of their respective provinces.
• Jahangir introduced reforms to improve the efficiency of provincial administration, including the appointment of experienced and competent governors and the establishment of a system of regular inspections and audits.

Mansabdari System

• The Mansabdari system was a hierarchical system of ranks and positions within the Mughal administration and military.
• Mansabdars were appointed by the emperor and held various responsibilities, including the administration of land, the collection of taxes, and the command of military units.
• Jahangir continued to use the Mansabdari system established by his father, Akbar, but introduced reforms to improve its efficiency and reduce corruption.

Judiciary and Law Enforcement

Qazi (Chief Justice) and his Role

• The Qazi was the highest judicial authority in the Mughal Empire, responsible for interpreting and enforcing Islamic law (Sharia) and the emperor’s decrees.
• During Jahangir’s reign, the Qazi played a crucial role in maintaining law and order and ensuring the fair and impartial administration of justice.
• The Qazi was also responsible for supervising the work of other judges and officials involved in the judicial system.

Mughal Legal System

• The Mughal legal system was based on a combination of Islamic law (Sharia) and traditional Indian legal principles.
• Jahangir continued his father’s policy of religious tolerance, allowing non-Muslims to be governed by their own religious laws in matters of personal status and family law.
• The emperor had the authority to issue decrees (farmans) that had the force of law, and these were enforced by the Qazi and other judicial officials.

Religious Policies

Relations with the Sikh Community

• Jahangir’s reign saw a deterioration in relations between the Mughal Empire and the Sikh community, primarily due to the execution of Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru, in 1606.
• The execution was a result of Guru Arjan Dev’s support for Jahangir’s rebellious son, Khusrau, and his refusal to convert to Islam.
• This event marked the beginning of a long period of conflict between the Mughal Empire and the Sikh community, which continued throughout the reigns of Shahjahan and Aurangzeb.

Relations with the Rajputs

• Jahangir continued his father’s policy of forming alliances with the Rajput kingdoms through marriage and diplomacy.
• He maintained friendly relations with the Rajput rulers, granting them high positions in the Mughal administration and military.
• However, there were occasional conflicts between the Mughal Empire and the Rajputs, such as the rebellion of Raja Amar Singh of Mewar in 1608.

Relations with the Portuguese

• Jahangir established diplomatic relations with the Portuguese, who had established trading posts along the western coast of India.
• The Portuguese were granted permission to trade in the Mughal Empire, and they provided valuable military assistance in the form of firearms and artillery.
• However, tensions between the Mughals and the Portuguese occasionally flared up, such as the conflict over the Portuguese seizure of the Mughal ship Rahimi in 1613.

III. Jahangir’s Economic Policies

Land Revenue System

Zabt System

• The Zabt system was a land revenue system introduced by Akbar and continued by Jahangir.
• It was based on the measurement of land and the assessment of its productivity.
• The system involved a detailed survey of land, classification of soil, and estimation of crop yield.
• The revenue was calculated based on the average yield and prices of crops over the previous ten years.
• The Zabt system aimed to ensure a fair and accurate assessment of land revenue, reducing the scope for corruption and exploitation by local officials.

Zamindari System

• The Zamindari system was another land revenue system in place during Jahangir’s reign.
• Under this system, land was divided into large estates called Zamindaris, which were managed by Zamindars (landlords).
• Zamindars were responsible for collecting land revenue from the peasants and paying a fixed share to the Mughal government.
• The Zamindari system allowed the Mughal government to delegate the responsibility of revenue collection to local elites, ensuring a steady flow of income to the imperial treasury.

Trade and Commerce

Promotion of International Trade

• Jahangir actively promoted international trade, recognizing its importance for the prosperity of the Mughal Empire.
• He encouraged the establishment of trade relations with various countries, including Persia, Central Asia, and Europe.
• The Mughal Empire exported a wide range of goods, such as textiles, spices, indigo, and saltpeter, while importing luxury items like silk, precious stones, and metals.
• Jahangir’s reign saw the growth of several important trading centers, including Agra, Lahore, and Ahmedabad, which attracted merchants from across the world.

Relations with the English East India Company

• Jahangir’s reign marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire’s relationship with the English East India Company.
• In 1601, the company was granted a royal charter by Queen Elizabeth I, allowing it to establish trading posts in the Indian subcontinent.
• The company’s first factory was established in Surat in 1608, followed by factories in Hugli, Madras, and other locations.
• Jahangir granted the company several privileges, such as the right to trade freely and exemption from customs duties, in exchange for English goods and military assistance against the Portuguese.

Taxation and Currency

Types of Taxes

• The Mughal Empire had a well-organized system of taxation during Jahangir’s reign.
• The primary source of revenue was the land tax, which was collected as a share of the agricultural produce or its equivalent in cash.
• Other taxes included customs duties on imports and exports, octroi (a tax on goods entering a city), and jizya (a tax on non-Muslims).
• The Mughal government also levied taxes on various professions, such as artisans, traders, and moneylenders.

Coinage System

• Jahangir introduced several innovations in the Mughal coinage system, which was based on a bimetallic standard of gold and silver.
• He issued a variety of coins, including the mohur (gold coin), rupee (silver coin), and dam (copper coin).
• Jahangir’s coins were known for their artistic design and high-quality minting, featuring inscriptions in Persian and depictions of various motifs, such as animals, plants, and celestial bodies.
• The Mughal coinage system facilitated trade and commerce, both within the empire and with other countries, by providing a stable and widely accepted medium of exchange.

IV. Shahjahan’s Administrative Policies

Central Administration

• Changes in the role of the Emperor
  • Shahjahan continued to centralize power, asserting greater control over the administration and military.
  • He expanded the empire’s territory, conquering new regions and consolidating power.
  • Shahjahan was known for his patronage of the arts, architecture, and literature, leading to a cultural renaissance during his reign.
• Changes in the role of the Wazir (Prime Minister)
  • The Wazir continued to play a crucial role in the administration, assisting the emperor in decision-making and overseeing the day-to-day affairs of the empire.
  • Shahjahan appointed competent and loyal Wazirs, ensuring smooth functioning of the administration.
• Changes in the role of the Diwan (Finance Minister)
  • The Diwan’s role remained largely unchanged, responsible for managing the empire’s finances, collecting taxes, and overseeing the treasury.
  • Shahjahan’s reign saw an increase in revenue due to the expansion of the empire and efficient tax collection.
• Changes in the role of the Mir Bakshi (Commander-in-Chief)
  • The Mir Bakshi continued to be responsible for the military affairs of the empire, including recruitment, training, and deployment of troops.
  • Under Shahjahan, the military was further strengthened and modernized, with an emphasis on artillery and fortifications.

Provincial Administration

• Changes in the Subahs (provinces) and their governors
  • The number of Subahs increased during Shahjahan’s reign due to the expansion of the empire.
  • Governors were appointed based on their loyalty and competence, ensuring efficient administration at the provincial level.
• Changes in the Mansabdari System
  • The Mansabdari system continued to be the backbone of the Mughal administration and military.
  • Shahjahan made some modifications to the system, including stricter regulations on the inheritance of Mansabs and the introduction of new ranks.

Judiciary and Law Enforcement

• Changes in the role of the Qazi (Chief Justice)
  • The Qazi’s role remained largely unchanged, responsible for overseeing the judiciary and ensuring the implementation of Islamic law.
  • Shahjahan appointed competent Qazis to ensure the smooth functioning of the judiciary.
• Changes in the Mughal Legal System
  • The legal system continued to be based on Islamic law, with some modifications to accommodate local customs and traditions.
  • Shahjahan emphasized the importance of justice and fair treatment of subjects, leading to a more efficient and responsive legal system.

Religious Policies

• Relations with the Sikh Community
  • Shahjahan’s reign saw a deterioration in relations with the Sikh community, primarily due to the execution of Guru Arjan Dev by Jahangir.
  • The Sikh community began to militarize under the leadership of Guru Hargobind, leading to conflicts with the Mughal Empire.
• Relations with the Rajputs
  • Shahjahan maintained cordial relations with the Rajputs, relying on their support for military campaigns and administration.
  • He continued the policy of granting high-ranking Mansabs to Rajput rulers and forming matrimonial alliances with them.
• Relations with the Portuguese
  • Shahjahan maintained diplomatic relations with the Portuguese, who controlled several coastal territories in India.
  • The Portuguese provided valuable military technology and expertise, particularly in the field of artillery, which was crucial for the Mughal Empire’s military campaigns.

V. Shahjahan’s Economic Policies

Land Revenue System

Changes in the Zabt System

• The Zabt system was a land revenue system introduced by Akbar and continued by Jahangir.
• Under Shahjahan, the Zabt system was further refined and consolidated.
• The land was surveyed and classified based on its fertility and potential for agricultural production.
• The revenue demand was fixed based on the average yield of the land over a period of time.
• Shahjahan introduced a more efficient system of revenue collection, with greater accountability and transparency.
• The revenue officials were instructed to be fair and just in their dealings with the peasants, and corruption was strictly dealt with.

Changes in the Zamindari System

• The Zamindari system was a system of land tenure in which land was held by large landowners called Zamindars.
• Under Shahjahan, the Zamindari system was further strengthened, with the Zamindars being given more powers and responsibilities.
• The Zamindars were responsible for the collection of land revenue and maintaining law and order in their territories.
• They were also required to maintain a certain number of troops for the service of the empire.
• Shahjahan tried to strike a balance between the interests of the Zamindars and the peasants, ensuring that the latter were not exploited.

Trade and Commerce

Promotion of International Trade

• Shahjahan’s reign saw a significant expansion of international trade, with the Mughal Empire establishing strong trade links with various countries.
• The empire exported a wide range of goods, including textiles, spices, indigo, and saltpeter.
• Imports included luxury items like silk, porcelain, and precious stones, as well as essential commodities like horses and metals.
• Shahjahan encouraged the establishment of new trade routes and the construction of ports and warehouses to facilitate trade.
• He also provided various incentives and concessions to foreign traders to attract them to the Mughal Empire.

Relations with the English East India Company

• The English East India Company, which had established its first factory in India during Jahangir’s reign, continued to expand its presence during Shahjahan’s rule.
• Shahjahan granted the company various privileges, including the right to trade freely in the empire and the exemption from certain taxes and duties.
• The company established new factories and trading posts in various parts of the empire, including Surat, Madras, and Hugli.
• The growing influence of the English East India Company in the Mughal Empire laid the foundation for the eventual colonization of India by the British.

Taxation and Currency

Changes in Types of Taxes

• Under Shahjahan, the tax system was further rationalized and streamlined.
• The primary source of revenue for the empire was the land tax, which was levied on the basis of the Zabt system.
• Other taxes included customs duties on imports and exports, taxes on trade and commerce, and various other levies.
• Shahjahan tried to ensure that the tax burden on the common people was not excessive and that the revenue collection process was fair and transparent.

Changes in the Coinage System

• Shahjahan introduced several changes in the coinage system to ensure a stable and uniform currency throughout the empire.
• The primary currency was the silver rupee, which was standardized in terms of weight and purity.
• Gold and copper coins were also minted, with their values being fixed in relation to the silver rupee.
• The coins were minted in various mints across the empire, with strict quality control measures in place to maintain their uniformity.
• The stability and reliability of the Mughal currency played a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce during Shahjahan’s reign.

VI. Aurangzeb’s Administrative Policies

Central Administration

• Changes in the role of the Emperor
  • Aurangzeb was a more conservative and orthodox ruler compared to his predecessors.
  • He took a more hands-on approach to governance, often personally overseeing military campaigns and administrative matters.
  • Aurangzeb’s strict adherence to Islamic law led to the reversal of some of his predecessors’ policies of religious tolerance.
• Changes in the role of the Wazir (Prime Minister)
  • The Wazir’s role remained largely unchanged under Aurangzeb, continuing to oversee the empire’s administration and finances.
  • However, Aurangzeb’s hands-on approach to governance may have diminished the Wazir’s influence and autonomy.
• Changes in the role of the Diwan (Finance Minister)
  • The Diwan continued to manage the empire’s finances, including revenue collection and expenditure.
  • Aurangzeb’s focus on military expansion and conquests may have increased the Diwan’s responsibilities in managing the empire’s war-related expenses.
• Changes in the role of the Mir Bakshi (Commander-in-Chief)
  • The Mir Bakshi continued to oversee the empire’s military affairs, including recruitment, training, and organization of the armed forces.
  • Aurangzeb’s military campaigns and conquests likely increased the importance and responsibilities of the Mir Bakshi.

Provincial Administration

• Changes in the Subahs (provinces) and their governors
  • Aurangzeb expanded the empire’s territory, leading to the creation of new Subahs and the appointment of new governors.
  • Governors were expected to enforce Aurangzeb’s strict adherence to Islamic law within their provinces.
• Changes in the Mansabdari system
  • The Mansabdari system, a system of military and civil administration based on ranks and land grants, continued under Aurangzeb.
  • However, Aurangzeb’s military campaigns and conquests may have led to an increase in the number of Mansabdars and a greater emphasis on their military responsibilities.

Judiciary and Law Enforcement

• Changes in the role of the Qazi (Chief Justice)
  • The Qazi continued to serve as the empire’s chief judicial authority, overseeing the legal system and ensuring the enforcement of Islamic law.
  • Under Aurangzeb, the Qazi’s role may have become more prominent due to the emperor’s strict adherence to Islamic law.
• Changes in the Mughal legal system
  • Aurangzeb’s strict adherence to Islamic law led to the reversal of some of his predecessors’ policies of religious tolerance.
  • Non-Muslims faced increased restrictions and taxes, and the legal system became more focused on enforcing Islamic law.

Religious Policies

• Relations with the Sikh community
  • Aurangzeb’s policies towards the Sikh community were less tolerant than those of his predecessors.
  • He ordered the execution of the Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur, leading to increased tensions and conflict between the Mughal Empire and the Sikh community.
• Relations with the Rajputs
  • Aurangzeb’s policies towards the Rajputs were less conciliatory than those of his predecessors, who had formed alliances with Rajput rulers through marriage and diplomacy.
  • Aurangzeb’s strict adherence to Islamic law and his attempts to impose it on the Rajputs led to increased tensions and conflict.
• Relations with the Portuguese
  • Aurangzeb maintained diplomatic and trade relations with the Portuguese, who controlled key ports along the western coast of India.
  • However, his strict adherence to Islamic law may have led to increased tensions with the Portuguese, who were predominantly Christian.

VII. Aurangzeb’s Economic Policies

Land Revenue System

Changes in the Zabt System

• The Zabt system was a land revenue system introduced by Akbar and continued by Jahangir and Shahjahan.
• Under Aurangzeb, the Zabt system was further refined and expanded.
• The land was surveyed and classified based on its fertility and potential for agricultural production.
• The revenue demand was fixed based on the average yield of the land over a period of time.
• Aurangzeb increased the state’s share of the produce, which led to higher revenue collection but also caused discontent among the peasantry.

Changes in the Zamindari System

• The Zamindari system was a land tenure system in which land was held by large landowners called zamindars.
• Aurangzeb made efforts to strengthen the Zamindari system by granting more powers and responsibilities to the zamindars.
• Zamindars were responsible for collecting land revenue from the peasants and remitting it to the state.
• They were also responsible for maintaining law and order in their territories.
• However, the increased power of the zamindars led to their exploitation of the peasantry, which contributed to rural unrest.

Trade and Commerce

Promotion of International Trade

• Aurangzeb recognized the importance of international trade for the prosperity of the Mughal Empire.
• He encouraged trade with European countries, particularly the English East India Company, the Dutch, and the Portuguese.
• Aurangzeb granted trading privileges and concessions to European trading companies, which helped boost trade and commerce.
• However, his strict adherence to Islamic law and the imposition of additional taxes on non-Muslim traders led to a decline in trade with some countries, particularly those in the Middle East.

Relations with the English East India Company

• Aurangzeb maintained cordial relations with the English East India Company, granting them trading privileges and concessions.
• The English East India Company established factories and trading posts in various parts of the Mughal Empire, including Surat, Hugli, and Madras.
• However, tensions arose between the Mughal authorities and the English East India Company over issues such as the company’s abuse of trading privileges and its involvement in local politics.
• These tensions eventually led to conflicts, such as the Anglo-Mughal War (1686-1690), which resulted in the weakening of the Mughal Empire’s control over its territories.

Taxation and Currency

Changes in Types of Taxes

• Aurangzeb made several changes to the taxation system in the Mughal Empire.
• He reintroduced the jizya tax, a poll tax on non-Muslims, which had been abolished by his predecessor, Akbar.
• Aurangzeb also imposed additional taxes on Hindu traders and merchants, which led to discontent among the non-Muslim population.
• The increased tax burden on the peasantry and the non-Muslim population contributed to rural unrest and the decline of the Mughal Empire.

Changes in the Coinage System

• Aurangzeb made some changes to the coinage system of the Mughal Empire.
• He introduced new gold, silver, and copper coins, which were minted in various denominations.
• The coins bore inscriptions in Persian, the official language of the Mughal Empire, and were widely accepted as a medium of exchange.
• However, the debasement of the coinage due to the empire’s financial difficulties led to a decline in the value of the currency and contributed to economic instability.

VIII. Comparative Analysis

Comparison of Administrative Policies among Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb

Aspect	Jahangir	Shahjahan	Aurangzeb
Central Administration	Strong centralized administration	Further centralization of power	Continued centralization, strict adherence to Islamic law
Role of the Emperor	Supreme authority, delegated power to ministers	Asserted greater control, expanded territory	Focused on conquests, implemented orthodox policies
Role of the Wazir	Chief minister, coordinated military and diplomacy	Similar role, appointed competent and loyal Wazirs	Similar role, focused on maintaining law and order
Role of the Diwan	Managed finances, implemented financial reforms	Continued role, increased revenue	Continued role, focused on efficient tax collection
Role of the Mir Bakshi	Oversaw military, suppressed rebellions	Strengthened and modernized military	Similar role, expanded military for conquests
Provincial Administration	Appointed competent governors, regular inspections	Increased number of Subahs, appointed loyal governors	Continued policy, focused on consolidating power
Mansabdari System	Continued Akbar’s system, introduced reforms	Modified system, stricter regulations	Continued system, focused on loyalty and competence
Judiciary and Law Enforcement	Qazi oversaw judiciary, combined Islamic and Indian law	Emphasized justice, responsive legal system	Qazi enforced Islamic law, stricter legal system
Religious Policies	Religious tolerance, conflicts with Sikhs	Maintained cordial relations with Rajputs	Reversed tolerant policies, persecuted non-Muslims

Comparison of Economic Policies among Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb

Aspect	Jahangir	Shahjahan	Aurangzeb
Land Revenue System	Zabt system, efficient tax collection	Refined and consolidated Zabt system	Continued Zabt system, focused on revenue generation
Zamindari System	Delegated revenue collection to Zamindars	Strengthened system, balanced interests	Continued system, ensured fair treatment of peasants
Trade and Commerce	Promoted international trade, relations with EIC	Expansion of trade, strong trade links	Continued promotion of trade, relations with EIC
Taxation	Land tax, customs duties, various levies	Rationalized and streamlined tax system	Similar tax system, focused on efficient collection
Currency	Introduced artistic coins, stable currency	Standardized silver rupee, uniform coinage	Continued stable currency, facilitated trade

IX. Criticisms and Arguments

Criticisms of Jahangir’s Policies

• Religious tolerance: While Jahangir continued his father Akbar’s policy of religious tolerance, some critics argue that he did not go far enough in promoting harmony between different religious communities.
• Execution of Guru Arjan Dev: Jahangir’s execution of the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev, is seen as a major blunder that led to a long period of conflict between the Mughal Empire and the Sikh community.
• Handling of rebellions: Critics argue that Jahangir’s handling of rebellions, particularly those led by his son Khusrau and the Sikh leader Guru Arjan Dev, was heavy-handed and counterproductive.

Criticisms of Shahjahan’s Policies

• Extravagance: Shahjahan’s reign is often criticized for its extravagance, particularly the construction of the Taj Mahal, which is seen as a symbol of the emperor’s vanity and a drain on the empire’s resources.
• Centralization of power: Critics argue that Shahjahan’s centralization of power weakened the empire’s provincial administration and made it more vulnerable to external threats.
• Handling of rebellions: Shahjahan’s handling of rebellions, particularly the one led by his son Aurangzeb, is seen as a major factor contributing to the decline of the Mughal Empire.

Criticisms of Aurangzeb’s Policies

• Religious intolerance: Aurangzeb’s strict adherence to Islamic law and the reversal of his predecessors’ policies of religious tolerance is seen as a major factor contributing to the decline of the Mughal Empire.
• Military campaigns: Critics argue that Aurangzeb’s military campaigns, particularly his conquest of the Deccan, drained the empire’s resources and weakened its military capabilities.
• Economic policies: Aurangzeb’s economic policies, particularly the reintroduction of the jizya tax and the imposition of additional taxes on non-Muslims, are seen as contributing to the decline of the empire’s economy and the impoverishment of its subjects.

Arguments in Defense of Their Policies

• Jahangir: Supporters of Jahangir argue that his reign was marked by a strong centralized administration, the promotion of the arts and architecture, and the establishment of diplomatic relations with foreign powers. They contend that his policies laid the foundation for the empire’s continued prosperity and stability.
• Shahjahan: Defenders of Shahjahan argue that his reign was marked by the expansion of the empire’s territory, the centralization of power, and the promotion of the arts and architecture. They contend that his policies, while sometimes extravagant, contributed to the empire’s cultural and architectural legacy.
• Aurangzeb: Supporters of Aurangzeb argue that his reign was marked by the expansion of the empire to its greatest territorial extent, the strengthening of the military, and the enforcement of Islamic law. They contend that his policies, while controversial, were aimed at preserving the empire’s Islamic character and maintaining its territorial integrity.

X. Conclusion

Legacy of Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb’s Administrative and Economic Policies

• Jahangir continued his father Akbar’s policies of centralization and religious tolerance, focusing on the arts, architecture, and diplomacy.
  • His reign saw the establishment of diplomatic relations with the English East India Company and the Safavid Empire of Persia.
  • Jahangir’s administrative and economic policies contributed to the stability and prosperity of the Mughal Empire during his reign.
• Shahjahan is best known for his architectural marvels, such as the Taj Mahal, and his patronage of the arts.
  • His reign was marked by further centralization of power, expansion of the empire’s territory, and the promotion of international trade.
  • Shahjahan’s policies helped maintain the Mughal Empire’s status as a dominant power in the Indian subcontinent.
• Aurangzeb was a more conservative and orthodox ruler, with a strict adherence to Islamic law.
  • His reign saw the expansion of the empire to its greatest territorial extent, but also the decline of the Mughal Empire due to his religious policies and military campaigns.
  • Aurangzeb’s policies led to increased tensions with various communities, such as the Sikhs, Rajputs, and Marathas, which contributed to the empire’s decline.

Impact on the Mughal Empire and Indian History

• The administrative and economic policies of Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb had a significant impact on the Mughal Empire and Indian history.
  • Their policies contributed to the empire’s growth, stability, and prosperity, as well as its eventual decline.
  • The Mughal Empire’s interactions with other powers, such as the English East India Company and the Portuguese, laid the foundation for the eventual colonization of India by European powers.
  • The Mughal Empire’s legacy in terms of art, architecture, and culture continues to influence modern India, with many of its monuments, such as the Taj Mahal, being recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

In conclusion, the administrative and economic policies of Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb played a crucial role in shaping the Mughal Empire and Indian history. While their policies contributed to the empire’s growth and prosperity, they also laid the groundwork for its decline and eventual dissolution. The legacy of these emperors continues to be felt in modern India, both in terms of its cultural heritage and its complex history.

1. Analyze the impact of Jahangir’s religious tolerance policies on the Mughal Empire’s relations with various religious communities, particularly the Sikhs. (250 words)
2. Assess the role of Shahjahan’s centralization of power in the Mughal Empire’s territorial expansion and its implications on the provincial administration. (250 words)
3. Examine the consequences of Aurangzeb’s strict adherence to Islamic law on the Mughal Empire’s economic policies and its relations with non-Muslim communities. (250 words)
4. Compare and contrast the administrative policies of Jahangir and Shahjahan with those of Akbar the Great, focusing on their approaches to centralization, religious tolerance, and provincial administration. (250 words)
5. Discuss the role of the English East India Company in the economic policies of Jahangir, Shahjahan, and Aurangzeb, and analyze its influence on the Mughal Empire’s trade and commerce. (250 words)