Question

Examine the major sources of income of the Panchayats during sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Answer 1

Panchayats made money in the sixteenth and seventeenth century from a variety of sources. Individual donations to a shared financial pool were one important source. They also obtained money via levies and fines that were applied to community members for a variety of violations. The Panchayat's revenue was also derived from agricultural produce and land tax revenue. Their funds were further bolstered by sporadic contributions from the governing class or affluent supporters.