Get summary, textual answers, solutions, notes, extras, PDF to NBSE Class 12 (Arts) History (Themes in Indian History) chapter 5 “Agrarian Relations: The Ain-I-Akbari”. However, the educational materials should only be used for reference and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
Introduction
The chapter begins with an introduction to the main character, who is facing a significant dilemma. This individual is depicted as struggling with a major decision that will impact their future. The narrative then shifts to provide background information on the character’s past experiences and the events that have led up to the current situation. These events are detailed meticulously, giving the reader a clear understanding of the character’s motivations and the stakes involved.
The middle portion of the chapter delves deeper into the character’s internal conflict. Through a series of flashbacks and introspective moments, the character reflects on their past actions, relationships, and the lessons learned from various experiences. This reflection helps to build a comprehensive picture of the character’s psychological state and the reasons behind their indecision. The author uses these moments to explore themes such as identity, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life.
As the chapter progresses, the narrative introduces several secondary characters who play crucial roles in the protagonist’s life. These characters provide different perspectives and advice, influencing the protagonist’s thought process. Their interactions are depicted in a way that highlights the complexity of human relationships and the impact they can have on one’s decisions. Each secondary character is given a distinct voice and personality, adding depth to the story.
The climax of the chapter occurs when the protagonist finally reaches a decision. This moment is portrayed with intense emotion and vivid description, capturing the weight of the decision and its implications. The protagonist’s choice is not presented as a simple resolution but rather as the beginning of a new set of challenges and opportunities. This approach underscores the ongoing nature of personal growth and the continuous journey of self-discovery.
In the concluding section of the chapter, the aftermath of the protagonist’s decision is explored. The narrative examines how this decision affects the character’s life and the lives of those around them. The consequences are shown to be both positive and negative, reflecting the complex nature of real-life decisions. The chapter ends on a contemplative note, with the protagonist considering the future and the next steps in their journey.
Throughout the chapter, the author employs a formal yet accessible tone, making the content suitable for a 10th grader. The language is clear and straightforward, avoiding unnecessary complexity while still conveying the depth of the protagonist’s experience. This approach ensures that the reader can engage with the material and understand the nuances of the story.
Textual questions and answers
Very Short Answer Type Questions
1. What are the most important sources of information regarding the structure of agrarian relations in the 16th and 17th centuries?
Answer: Ain-i-Akbari by Abul Fazal, some contemporary works, and the accounts of foreign travellers.
2. Name any two sources of information of the land revenue system of Mughals.
Answer: Ain-i-Akbari and the accounts of foreign travellers.
3. What was a ‘Nasaq’?
Answer: Nasaq was a system of revenue assessment.
4. Describe the rates of land revenue imposed on the Banjar land.
Answer:
| Year | Rate |
|---|---|
| 1st | 1/26 |
| 2nd | 1/13 |
| 3rd | 1/13 |
| 4th | 3/13 |
| 5th | 1/3 |
5. Who were Muqaddams? What were their duties?
Answer: Muqaddams were village headmen. They helped the Amalguzar and his subordinates such as Potdars in the collection of revenue. They received 2.5 per cent as their commission.
Short Answer Type Questions
1. Describe the nature and contents of the books Ain-i-Akbari.
Answer: Ain-i-Akbari, the third volume of the Akbarnamah by Abul Fazal, is essential for studying 16th and 17th-century Indian agrarian relations. Unlike the historical Akbar Nama, it details administrative rules, including information on Akbar’s government, social conditions, and various trades. It is divided into five books called Daftars, covering imperial establishments, common people, and cultural aspects. Edited by Henry Blochmann in 1873, it includes regulations, social conditions, and a unique administrative system that influenced future governance.
2. Describe the life led by the forest dwellers during the Mughal era in 16th-17th centuries.
Answer: Forest dwellers were integral to the Mughal economy, supplying elephants and other forest products. Commercial agriculture spread, increasing the demand for goods like honey and gum lac. Tribal chiefs became zamindars or kings, forming armies. The Ain-i-Akbari notes the transition from tribal to monarchical systems and the influence of Sufi saints in converting agricultural communities to Islam.
3. Describe the role played by women in agricultural production.
Answer: Women worked alongside men in agricultural tasks like sowing, weeding, and harvesting. They also engaged in artisanal work such as spinning and pottery. Despite biases, women were crucial due to their labor and reproductive roles. High mortality rates led to customs like bride-price and remarriage. Women in rural communities participated actively in production and sometimes controlled inherited property.
4. Describe the system of collection of land revenue introduced by Akbar.
Answer: Akbar’s Ain-i-Dahsala system, implemented by Raja Todar Mal, involved measuring and classifying land based on fertility. Land was categorized into Polaj, Parauti, Chachar, and Banjar. Revenue was assessed in cash, based on the average produce of three years, and collected by officials like Amils and Patwaris. The rate was fixed at one-third of the produce, ensuring fair and direct dealings with peasants.
5. How does the Ain-i-Akbari lay down the physical arrangements of the Mughal court? Explain.
Answer: Ain-i-Akbari describes Akbar’s court where a drum announces court sessions. Royal family, nobles, and officials attend, standing in designated places. Learned men and skilled artisans present their respects. Orders are given, and entertainment by gladiators, wrestlers, singers, and jugglers follows, showcasing the court’s organized and multifaceted nature.
Long Answer Type Questions
1. “Inspite of the limitations, the Ain-i-Akbari remains an extraordinary document of its time”. Explain the statement.
Answer: The Ain-i-Akbari, despite its limitations, remains an extraordinary document of its time due to several reasons. Firstly, it provides a detailed and comprehensive account of the administration, culture, and society of the Mughal Empire during Akbar’s reign. It covers various aspects such as the imperial household, military and civil administration, the revenue system, and the condition of peasants and artisans. Secondly, it offers valuable insights into the agrarian relations and the functioning of the rural economy, which are crucial for understanding the socio-economic structure of that period. The meticulous documentation and systematic presentation of information make it an indispensable source for historians. Furthermore, the Ain-i-Akbari reflects the enlightened policies of Akbar, showcasing his efforts to create a just and efficient administration. Despite some exaggerations and biases, the work’s richness in detail and the breadth of its coverage make it an extraordinary document.
2. Give the features of the work Ain-i-Akbari. Describe its importance.
Answer: The Ain-i-Akbari is characterized by its systematic and detailed presentation of the Mughal administration and society. Some of its notable features include:
- Detailed descriptions of the administrative divisions of the empire, including the names of provinces (subas), districts (sarkars), and subdivisions (parganas).
- Comprehensive accounts of the revenue system, including land measurement, classification of land, and rates of land revenue.
- Descriptions of the various departments of the state, such as the imperial household, military, judiciary, and revenue administration.
- Information on the socio-economic conditions of different classes of people, including peasants, artisans, and nobles.
- Insights into the cultural and religious life of the people, including festivals, rituals, and practices.
The importance of the Ain-i-Akbari lies in its role as a primary source for the study of Mughal India. It provides valuable information on the functioning of the Mughal administration and the socio-economic conditions of the time. The work is indispensable for historians and researchers studying the Mughal period, as it offers a wealth of data and insights into various aspects of life during Akbar’s reign.
3. Make an estimate of the land revenue system introduced by Akbar.
Answer: The land revenue system introduced by Akbar, known as the Ain-i-Dahsala or the ten-year settlement, was a significant reform that aimed at creating a fair and efficient method of revenue collection. The key features of this system include:
- Measurement of land: The land was measured using a standardized unit called the bigha, and a new type of bamboo measuring rod called the tanab was introduced to ensure accuracy.
- Classification of land: Land was classified into four categories based on its fertility and productivity – Polaj (continuously cultivated land), Parauti (land left fallow to regain fertility), Chachar (land left fallow for four years), and Banjar (land left uncultivated for more than five years).
- Assessment of revenue: The average produce of different types of land was calculated, and one-third of the average produce was fixed as the state’s share. This share could be paid in cash or kind.
- Periodic revision: The revenue rates were periodically revised to ensure that they reflected the current agricultural conditions and productivity levels.
The land revenue system introduced by Akbar was a major improvement over the earlier methods of revenue collection. It was based on careful measurement and classification of land, which ensured a more accurate and fair assessment of revenue. The system provided stability and predictability for peasants, as they knew in advance the amount of revenue they had to pay. Moreover, the periodic revision of revenue rates ensured that the system remained flexible and responsive to changing agricultural conditions.
4. Examine the role of Panchayats in the rural society of Mughal Empire.
Answer: Panchayats played a crucial role in the rural society of the Mughal Empire. They were local self-governing bodies that looked after the affairs of the village. The main features and functions of Panchayats include:
- Composition: Panchayats were typically composed of the elders and important people of the village, representing various castes and communities. However, village menials and agricultural workers were generally not represented.
- Leadership: Every Panchayat was headed by a headman, known as Muqaddam or Mandal. The headman was chosen through the consensus of the village elders and approved by the Zamindar. The headman supervised the preparation of village accounts and was assisted by the village accountant or Patwari.
- Judicial functions: Panchayats had the authority to settle disputes within the village, levy fines, and inflict punishments such as expulsion from the community. They ensured that caste boundaries were respected and maintained social order.
- Economic functions: The main source of income for the Panchayat was contributions made by individuals to a common financial pool. These funds were used for community welfare activities, such as entertaining revenue officials, constructing bunds or canals, and tiding over natural calamities like famines and floods.
- Social functions: Panchayats played a significant role in regulating social conduct and ensuring that community norms and values were upheld. They mediated in matters such as marriages and property disputes.
The Panchayats were an essential part of rural governance in the Mughal Empire, providing a level of local autonomy and ensuring the effective administration of village affairs. They played a vital role in maintaining social order, resolving disputes, and promoting community welfare.
5. Explain the role played by women of the imperial household in the Mughal Empire.
Answer: Women of the imperial household in the Mughal Empire played significant roles in both the domestic and political spheres. Some of the key aspects of their roles include:
- Domestic management: Women of the imperial household were responsible for managing the domestic affairs of the palace. This included overseeing the daily activities, ensuring the smooth functioning of the household, and maintaining the welfare of the family members.
- Influence in politics: Many women of the imperial household exercised considerable influence over political matters. They acted as advisors to the emperor and played crucial roles in decision-making processes. Their counsel was often sought on important state matters.
- Patronage of arts and culture: Women of the imperial household were great patrons of arts and culture. They supported and encouraged various forms of artistic expression, including painting, music, and literature. Their patronage contributed to the flourishing of Mughal art and culture.
- Social and charitable activities: These women were actively involved in social and charitable activities. They established and supported various charitable institutions, such as hospitals, schools, and orphanages, to help the needy and promote social welfare.
- Diplomatic roles: Women of the imperial household often played diplomatic roles, acting as intermediaries in negotiations and alliances. Their involvement in diplomatic matters helped strengthen political relationships and alliances.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Who wrote Ain-i-Akbari?
(a) Akbar
(b) Abul Fazl
(c) Jahangir
(d) (a) and (b) both
Answer: b. Abul Fazl
2. In the Mughal period, the Indian-Persian source referred to the farmers as:
(a) Ryot
(b) Zamindar
(c) Amin
(d) Taulqdar
Answer: a. Ryot
3. How many crops were grown in a year?
(a) 2
(b) 4
(c) 6
(d) None of the above
Answer: a. 2
4. Dalhan and Tilhan were crops of:
(a) Nakdi
(b) Kharif
(c) Rabi
(d) None of the above
Answer: b. Kharif
5. Why was Bengal famous?
(a) Sugar
(b) Cotton
(c) Maize
(d) Papaya
Answer: a. Sugar
Competency-Based Questions
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Match the following:
List I (Lands in Mughal Empire) (i) Polaj (A) Land always being cultivated
(ii) Parauti (B) Land fallow for three to four years
(iii) Chachhar (C) Land fallow a year
(iv) Banjar (D) Land uncultivated for five years
Options:
(a) (i)(A), (ii)(C), (iii)(B), (iv)(D)
(b) (i)(B), (ii)(C), (iii)(D), (iv)(A)
(c) (i)(C), (ii)(A), (iii)(D), (iv)(B)
(d) (i)(D), (ii)(C), (iii)(B), (iv)(A)
Answer: a. (i)(A), (ii)(C), (iii)(B), (iv)(D)
2. Consider the working conditions of the following farmers:
P : He owns a small piece of land in his village which he cultivates with his wife.
Q : She is a farmer who cultivates outside of her village as she earns more there.
R : He owns a large size land in his village and hires farmers to work in his fields.
S : He is a farmer who works on land outside of his village on a contractual basis.
Who among these would have been considered khud-kashta peasants in 17th-century India?
(a) both P and Q
(b) both R and S
(c) both P and R
(d) both Q and S
Answer: c. both P and R
3. Which of the following informations are correct about Ain-i-Akbari?
i. Written by Abdul Razi in Arabic language.
ii. Manzil-abadi, concerns the imperial household.
iii. Sipha-abadi, covers the military and civil administration.
iv. Mulk-abadi, deals with the fiscal side of the empire.
Options:
(a) II, III, and IV
(b) III, IV, and I
(c) IV, I, and II
(d) I, II, and III
Answer: a. II, III, and IV
4. Why did most people work in the agriculture sector during medieval India?
(a) The Mughals and other princely states during that time paid farmers the highest salaries.
(b) There were plenty of cultivable lands where food and non-food crops could be produced.
(c) According to caste rules, all members of the society needed to produce their own food.
(d) Unlike other professions at the time, farming was done by both men and women.
Answer: b. There were plenty of cultivable lands where food and non-food crops could be produced.
5. Which of the following statements is true about the reigns of Mughal emperors?
(i) Reign of Akbar (A) 1658 – 1707
(ii) Reign of Jahangir (B) 1628 – 1658
(iii) Reign of Shah Jahan (C) 1605 – 1627
(iv) Reign of Aurangzeb (D) 1556 – 1605
Options:
(a) (i)(A), (ii)(B), (iii)(C), (iv)(D)
(b) (i)(C), (ii)(A), (iii)(B), (iv)(D)
(c) (i)(D), (ii)(C), (iii)(B), (iv)(A)
(d) (i)(B), (ii)(C), (iii)(A), (iv)(D)
Answer: c. (i)(D), (ii)(C), (iii)(B), (iv)(A)
Case-based Questions
1. Read the following passage and answer the questions:
(i) How did the people come to know when Akbar held the court?
Answer: A large drum was beaten.
(ii) Who were present at his court?
Answer: His majesty’s son and grandchildren, the grandees of the court, all other men who have admittance, learned men of renown, skillful mechanics, officers of justice, skillful gladiators and wrestlers, singers, male and female, clever jugglers, and funny tumblers.
(iii) Who submitted reports to the emperor and what actions did the emperor take?
Answer: Officers of justice submitted their reports. The emperor, with his usual insights, gave orders and settled everything in a satisfactory manner.
2. Read the following case carefully and answer the questions that follow:
(i) How were the goods transported from the hills to the plains?
Answer: (d) All of these
(ii) Name the item sold by the hill tribes.
Answer: (d) Only (a)
(iii) What items were bought back by the hill tribes from the plains?
Answer: (d) All of these
(iv) Where in suba of Awadh in situated?
Answer: (a) Uttar Pradesh
Extra/additional MCQs
1. Who wrote the Ain-i-Akbari?
A. Babur
B. Abul Fazal
C. Akbar
D. Henry Blochmann
Answer: B. Abul Fazal
72. Who was the revenue collector under Akbar’s administration?
A. Amil
B. Muqaddam
C. Potdar
D. Qanungo
Answer: A. Amil
Extra/additional questions and answers
1. What is the main source of information about the structure of agrarian relations from the time of Akbar onwards?
Answer: The main source of information about the structure of agrarian relations from the time of Akbar onwards is the Ain-i-Akbari by Abul Fazal.
77. How did Shah Jahan’s reign affect the revenue system established by Akbar?
Answer: Shah Jahan’s reign saw significant changes in the revenue system. He abolished some illegal cesses and constructed canals for irrigation, reflecting concern for agriculturists’ welfare. However, the revival of the Jagir system reduced the extent of Khalsa lands and increased state demand to about one-half of the produce. Group assessment became common, increasing the peasants’ burden as they paid for both cultivated and occupied land, raising the land revenue to 400 million rupees.
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger who manages Online Free Notes. An avid reader of Victorian literature, his favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. He dreams of travelling the world. You can connect with him on social media. He does personal writing on ronism.
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