Question

Compare the revenue administration of the Peshwas with that of Shivaji.

Answer 1

• Revenue administration of Shivaji:

1. Shivaji abolished the zamindari system.
2. Loans were provided to the farmers in the times of famine.
3. The state also collected custom duties and professional taxes.
4. The two important taxes collected during his time were Chauth and Sardeshmuki.

• Revenue administration of Peshwas :

1. The revenue administration of peshwas was headed by a key official called the kamavisdar.
2. He was expowered to maintain a small body of soldiers to police the administrative area, from where tribute or tax had to be collected.
3. A prospective tax or revenue collector who won the contract was expected to have a reputation for wealth and probity.
4. He was required to pay a portion of the whole of the anticipated revenue – one third to one half-either out of his own wealth or from the money borrowed from bankers.