Q. In which one of the following spheres, Akbar carried forward the policies first initiated by Sher Shah?
(a) Measurement of land for purposes of assessing land revenue
(b) Recruitment of nobility from various sections of the society
(c) Appointment of rulers who accepted his suzerainty to high offices
(d) Withdrawal of discriminatory laws against non-Muslims
Ans: (a) Measurement of land for purposes of assessing land revenue
Explanation:
In the sphere of (a) measurement of land for purposes of assessing land revenue, Akbar carried forward the policies first initiated by Sher Shah.
Sher Shah Suri, who ruled in the mid-16th century, introduced several administrative reforms during his reign. One of his significant reforms was the establishment of an efficient revenue administration system based on measurement of land for the purpose of assessing land revenue. This system aimed to ensure a fair and standardized method of taxation.
Akbar, who ruled later in the late 16th century, continued and expanded upon the policies of Sher Shah in this regard. Akbar further developed and refined the land revenue administration system, introducing the innovative method of measurement known as the “Zabt” system. This system involved the detailed measurement of agricultural land, assessment of its productivity, and fixing of revenue rates based on the measurement.
By carrying forward Sher Shah’s policies and implementing his own reforms, Akbar’s administration successfully established a comprehensive and efficient land revenue system, which played a crucial role in the economic stability and prosperity of the Mughal Empire.
