Question 21 from UPSC CSE 2021 - Medieval History

Question

With reference to medieval India, which one of the following is the correct sequence in ascending order in terms of size?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. Paragana - Sarkar - Suba

Strategy: Use the known Mughal administrative hierarchy—paragana (group of villages), sarkar (several parganas), and suba (several sarkars)—to arrange the units in ascending order of size. This method allows for the direct elimination of any options that do not follow the correct sequence.

Key Info: The Mughal administrative system, formalized under Akbar, was a three-tier structure designed for centralized control and efficient tax collection.

**Administrative Hierarchy**
- **Paragana:** The smallest unit, a cluster of villages managed by a shiqdar or amil for local revenue and law and order.
- **Sarkar:** A larger division comprising multiple parganas, overseen by a faujdar and an amalguzar.
- **Suba:** The largest unit, equivalent to a province, formed by several sarkars and governed by a Subedar.

Akbar expanded on divisions introduced by Sher Shah Suri. Initially, there were 12 subas under Akbar, which later increased to 15 or more. This system persisted through the later Mughal era and influenced subsequent colonial administrative boundaries.

Answer

Option B: Sarkar - Paragana - Suba

Answer

Option C: Suba - Sarkar - Paragana

Answer

Option D: Paragana - Suba - Sarkar