INTRODUCTION
During the reign of Sher Shah Suri, who ruled over the region from 1540-1545, Afghanistan witnessed significant administrative reforms that contributed to the establishment of Afghan power. These reforms were aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the state administration and improving the lives of the citizens. Sher Shah Suri, who was a capable and visionary ruler, implemented several measures to strengthen the administrative machinery of the state, streamline the revenue collection system, and promote the welfare of his subjects.
One of the most notable administrative reforms introduced by Sher Shah Suri was the introduction of the land revenue system, known as the "Zabti System." This system aimed at fixing the revenue to be collected from each plot of land based on its fertility and productivity, instead of the traditional system that relied on the arbitrary assessment of the revenue collectors. This helped to eliminate corruption and exploitation by revenue collectors, and also ensured that the farmers were not overburdened with taxes.
Sher Shah Suri also introduced several other administrative reforms, such as the establishment of a centralized system of governance, the introduction of a postal system, the construction of roads and bridges, and the establishment of a currency system. These reforms contributed to the development of a strong and efficient state apparatus, and helped to create a sense of unity and cohesion among the diverse ethnic and linguistic groups that inhabited the region.
In this context, it is important to understand the significance of the administrative reforms introduced by Sher Shah Suri in the historical development of Afghanistan. These reforms laid the foundation for the establishment of Afghan power, and helped to create a stable and prosperous state that lasted for several centuries.
ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS UNDER SHER SHAH SURI :
Sher Shah Suri, also known as Farid Khan, was a prominent ruler who reigned over a large part of the Indian subcontinent from 1540 to 1545. During his brief but eventful rule, he introduced several administrative reforms that greatly influenced the region's political, economic, and social systems. In this answer, we will delve deeper into Sher Shah Suri's administrative reforms and their impact.
REORGANIZATION OF REVENUE ADMINISTRATION:
Sher Shah Suri is widely regarded as a pioneer in the reorganization of the revenue administration system in India. He introduced a new system of measurement of land for taxation purposes, which was known as the 'zabt' system. Under this system, land was measured and taxed based on its quality and productivity. The land was divided into three categories - good, middling, and bad - and the revenue was fixed accordingly. This system was a significant departure from the earlier practice of levying arbitrary taxes on the peasants, which often led to oppression and exploitation.
INTRODUCTION OF FIRMAN:
Another notable administrative reform introduced by Sher Shah Suri was the issuance of 'firman' or royal decrees. These firman were used to communicate with the officials in the provinces and ensure that the central government's policies were implemented effectively. The firman also provided a framework for the governance of the provinces and helped in maintaining law and order. This system of firman issuance continued to be used by subsequent Mughal emperors and had a significant impact on the administration of the region.
ESTABLISHMENT OF ROADS AND SARAIS:
Sher Shah Suri recognized the importance of infrastructure development in promoting economic growth and social stability. He established a network of roads and sarais (rest houses) for the convenience of travellers. The roads were well-maintained and patrolled by the soldiers, which ensured safe and speedy transportation of goods and people. The sarais provided accommodation and other facilities to travellers, which encouraged trade and commerce.
REFORMS IN THE POSTAL SYSTEM:
Sher Shah Suri also introduced several reforms in the postal system, which was used for communication and revenue collection. He established a network of post offices and appointed reliable postmasters to ensure the timely delivery of letters and messages. He also introduced a system of postal stamps, which were used to indicate the postage paid on the letters. This system of postage stamps is still in use in India and other countries.
ESTABLISHMENT OF A STANDING ARMY:
Finally, Sher Shah Suri established a standing army, which was paid through the revenue collected from the land. This system of revenue-based payment ensured that the soldiers were well-trained, disciplined, and loyal to the central government. The standing army helped in maintaining law and order and protecting the borders from external threats.
In conclusion, Sher Shah Suri's administrative reforms were instrumental in shaping the political, economic, and social systems of the Indian subcontinent. His reforms in revenue administration, communication, infrastructure development, and military organization laid the foundation for a more efficient and centralized governance system, which had far-reaching implications for the region's future.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Sher Shah Suri's administrative reforms were a significant departure from the earlier practices of arbitrary taxation and decentralized governance. His reforms in revenue administration, infrastructure development, communication, and military organization laid the foundation for a more efficient and centralized governance system in India. Sher Shah Suri's reforms greatly influenced subsequent Mughal emperors and had far-reaching implications for the region's future. Sher Shah Suri's legacy remains an important part of India's history, and his administrative reforms continue to inspire policymakers and scholars alike.