Q. The member of Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan who looked after foreign affairs was:
(a) Peshwa
(b) Sachiv
(c) Pandit Rao
(d) Sumant
Ans: (d) Sumant
Explanation: The correct answer is (d) Sumant.
Among the eight members of Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan, the one who looked after foreign affairs was called the “Sumant.” The Sumant was responsible for handling diplomatic relations, foreign policy matters, and interactions with other kingdoms or empires.
The Ashtapradhan was Shivaji’s council of ministers, and each member held a specific portfolio. The roles and responsibilities of the council members were divided to efficiently govern and administer the Maratha Empire.
To recap, the member of Shivaji’s Ashtapradhan who looked after foreign affairs was the Sumant.