Discuss the merits and demerits of the Mansabdari System.

Merits of Mansabdari System:

(i)    Good on revolts : The mansabdar used to contact the emperor before disbursing the salaries to the soldiers every month. It was not certain that he might rebel like the jagirdars.

(ii)    Qualification as basis of ranks : The emperor used to give mansabs on the basis of qualifications. The mansab of the incapable personnel was decreased or their services were dispensed with.

(iii)    Ban on corruption : As soon as a mansabdar died his mansab was confiscated. Hence he could never intend to earn money through fraudulent means.

(iv)    Forceful army : The removal of mansabdari system by Akbar justified his wisdom. This stopped the financial loss of the empire and a forceful army was formed which was capable of meeting any challenge.

Demerits of Mansabdari System

(i)    Misuse of money : The mansabdars too became cunning. They produced and displayed the horses at the time of inspection by borrowing them from the adjoining neighbourhood. The administration had to undergo a heavy loss in it. The soldiers were not available at the opportune occasion. They had to face a heavy financial astringency.

(ii)    Loyalty of the soldiers : The soldiers held loyalty towards the mansabdars alone who they thought was their immediate boss and disbursing authority and not towards the emperor.

(iii)    Luxurious life : It was known to the mansabdars before hand that their mansab will be confiscated on their death. So they squandered the money like anything. They tried to acquire and enjoy all the commodities of luxury.