What were some features of their governance?
Shivaji instituted a relatively centralised administration, abolishing hereditary posts and paying salaries to officials from the state treasury. Officials were periodically transferred to prevent them from becoming too powerful.
Shivaji established the aṣhṭa pradhāna manḍala (council of eight ministers) to assist with administration.
He provided pensions to widows of soldiers and offered military posts to their sons.
The Marathas levied taxes called chauth (25 per cent) and sardeshmukhi (additional 10 per cent) from provinces not directly under them, offering protection in return.
They had an efficient judicial system with panchāyats delivering justice, and the kotwāl maintained law and order in cities.
Trade was encouraged with ships travelling to distant ports, and roads and bridges were constructed for connectivity.
Explanation
The chapter describes Maratha administration in detail under the section 'Maratha Administration', covering civilian administration, military organisation, judicial system, and trade networks. Shivaji's administrative reforms and the later structural changes under the Peshwas are explained comprehensively.
Solution Steps
Shivaji instituted a centralised administration, abolishing hereditary posts and paying salaries from the state treasury
The aṣhṭa pradhāna manḍala (council of eight ministers) was established to assist with administration
Pensions were provided to widows of soldiers and military posts were offered to their sons
Taxes called chauth (25%) and sardeshmukhi (additional 10%) were levied from provinces not directly under Maratha control
An efficient judicial system with panchāyats delivered justice, while the kotwāl maintained law and order in cities
Trade was encouraged with ships travelling to distant ports, and roads and bridges were constructed for connectivity