Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Mughal Empire, at its zenith under Akbar, was a vast and prosperous realm. However, the reign of Aurangzeb (1658-1707) witnessed a significant shift in imperial priorities, particularly with his prolonged engagement in the Deccan region. While initially intended to consolidate Mughal authority and suppress Maratha resistance, Aurangzeb’s Deccan policy, characterized by relentless military campaigns and a rigid administrative approach, is widely considered a pivotal factor in the empire’s subsequent decline. This essay will analyze the multifaceted ways in which Aurangzeb’s Deccan policies undermined the Mughal Empire’s political, economic, and social foundations.
The Genesis of the Deccan Policy
Aurangzeb’s involvement in the Deccan wasn’t a sudden decision. It stemmed from several factors. Firstly, the weakening of the Qutb Shahi dynasty of Golconda and the Adil Shahi dynasty of Bijapur presented an opportunity for Mughal expansion. Secondly, the rising power of the Marathas under Shivaji posed a serious challenge to Mughal authority. Aurangzeb viewed the Deccan as a region ripe for conquest and a source of revenue, but also as a breeding ground for rebellion. He appointed Shaista Khan as Viceroy in 1660 to subdue the Marathas, initiating a prolonged period of conflict.
Nature of the Conflicts and Military Campaigns
Aurangzeb personally led numerous campaigns in the Deccan, spending the last 27 years of his reign (1682-1707) there. These campaigns were characterized by:
- Prolonged Sieges: Forts like Purandar, Raigarh, and Golconda were subjected to lengthy sieges, draining Mughal resources.
- Guerrilla Warfare: The Marathas, under Shivaji and later his successors, employed effective guerrilla tactics, frustrating Mughal attempts at decisive victory.
- Shifting Alliances: Aurangzeb frequently engaged in alliances with local rulers, only to break them when they no longer served his purpose, creating instability.
- Religious Policies: Aurangzeb’s stricter religious policies, including the reimposition of the jizya tax, alienated sections of the Deccan population, fueling resistance.
The Mughal army, accustomed to fighting on the plains of North India, struggled to adapt to the rugged terrain of the Deccan. The logistical challenges of supplying a large army in a remote region further exacerbated the situation.
Economic and Administrative Strain
The Deccan campaigns imposed a tremendous economic burden on the Mughal Empire.
| Aspect | Impact |
|---|---|
| Military Expenditure | Constant warfare drained the imperial treasury. Historians estimate that over 70% of Mughal revenue was spent on the Deccan campaigns. |
| Revenue Collection | Disruption of agricultural activities and trade due to warfare led to a decline in revenue. |
| Administrative Breakdown | Prolonged absence of the emperor from the north led to administrative neglect and the rise of powerful regional nobles. |
| Mansabdari System | The system became increasingly ineffective as nobles focused on personal gain rather than imperial service. |
The constant drain of resources weakened the central administration and contributed to widespread discontent among the Mughal nobility.
Rise of Regional Powers
Aurangzeb’s Deccan policy inadvertently facilitated the rise of regional powers. The Marathas, despite facing setbacks, continued to resist Mughal rule and gradually expanded their influence. The weakening of the Qutb Shahi and Adil Shahi dynasties created a power vacuum that was filled by new regional entities. Furthermore, the prolonged absence of the emperor allowed local governors (subahdars) to consolidate their power, laying the foundation for future independent states like Hyderabad under the Asaf Jahi dynasty (founded in 1724 by Mir Qamar-ud-Din Siddiqi).
The Aftermath of Aurangzeb’s Death
Aurangzeb’s death in 1707 left the Mughal Empire exhausted and vulnerable. His successors lacked the vision and strength to reverse the damage caused by the Deccan policies. The empire was plagued by succession disputes, internal rebellions, and external threats. The Marathas, emboldened by Mughal weakness, launched a series of raids into Mughal territories, further eroding imperial authority. The Deccan, once a potential source of wealth and power, became a constant drain on the empire’s resources.
Conclusion
Aurangzeb’s Deccan policy, while initially motivated by strategic and political considerations, ultimately proved to be a major catalyst for the Mughal Empire’s decline. The prolonged military campaigns, economic strain, administrative breakdown, and the rise of regional powers collectively undermined the empire’s foundations. While other factors, such as weak successors and internal divisions, also contributed to the decline, Aurangzeb’s relentless focus on the Deccan significantly accelerated the process, transforming a once-mighty empire into a fragmented and vulnerable entity. The policy serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of overextension and the importance of adapting to local conditions.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.