Neither the Iqta system nor the Mansabdari system was prevalent under the:
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: The Vijayanagara Empire.
Explanation —
Iqta System: This system was primarily prevalent during the Delhi Sultanate (initiated by Iltutmish) and the Lodi Dynasty. Under this system, officials were granted a portion of land (an Iqta) in lieu of a salary.
Mansabdari System: This system was introduced by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. Under this system, civil and military officials were granted a 'Mansab' (a rank or position).
Vijayanagara Empire: In this South Indian empire, the 'Nayankara System' was prevalent instead of the aforementioned two systems. Here, military chiefs who received 'Amaram' (land) were referred to as 'Amaranayakas'.
Additional Points —
Nayankara System: This was Vijayanagara's own distinct administrative and military framework. The Amaranayakas collected taxes from their respective territories and provided military assistance to the King.
Iltutmish: He is credited with institutionalizing the Iqta system in India.
Akbar: He implemented the Mansabdari system around 1571–72, which comprised two significant ranks: 'Zat' and 'Sawar'.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers
Question 1: By what name was the military system of the Vijayanagara Empire known?
Answer: The Nayankara System.
Question 2: What was the meaning of the term 'Amaram' in the context of the Vijayanagara Empire?
Answer: Land granted to the Amaranayakas (military chiefs) for their maintenance and for the upkeep of their troops.