Consider the following statements regarding the Mansabdari system under the Mughals: 1. The rank of a mansabdar was designated by dual numerical indicators known as zat and sawar. 2. Mansabdari ranks were hereditary and passed automatically from father to son upon retirement. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Mansabdari system instituted by Akbar determined the official rank, salary, and military obligations of imperial officials using zat and sawar ratings, where zat indicated personal rank and sawar denoted cavalry contingent size. Mansabdari ranks were strictly non-hereditary; upon the death or retirement of an official, the imperial administration resumed all titles, properties, and military assignments. This mechanism prevented the formation of feudal hereditary fiefdoms.