Consider the following statements about the administrative measures of Shivaji:

1. The scheme of Ashta Pradhan (eight) ministers was completed and announced at the time of Shivaji's coronation with regulations and duties properly defined.

2. Shivaji introduced Marathi in place of Persian and coined Sanskrit technical E terms for administrative purposes.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct answer is  Both 1 and 2.

Key PointsAdministrative Measures of Shivaji

• Ashta Pradhan:
  • Shivaji's administrative system was marked by the creation of the Ashta Pradhan (Council of Eight Ministers). This council was established to ensure efficient governance and administration.
  • The Ashta Pradhan was formally constituted during Shivaji's coronation in 1674. Each minister had clearly defined roles and responsibilities, ensuring a well-organized administrative framework.
  • The eight ministers held the following titles and roles:
    • Peshwa: Prime Minister
    • Amatya: Finance Minister
    • Shurunavis/Sachiv: Secretary
    • Waqia-Navis: Interior Minister
    • Sumant: Foreign Minister
    • Senapati: Commander-in-Chief
    • Nyayadhish: Chief Justice
    • Pandit Rao: High Priest
  Hence, statement 1 is correct.
• Marathi and Sanskrit in Administration:
  • Shivaji was a proponent of promoting regional languages and was instrumental in replacing Persian, the dominant administrative language during the Mughal era, with Marathi in his administration.
  • In addition to Marathi, Shivaji introduced Sanskrit technical terms for various administrative purposes. This was part of his broader effort to foster a sense of cultural pride and identity among his subjects.
  • By employing Marathi and Sanskrit, Shivaji ensured that the local populace could better understand and engage with the administrative processes, thereby increasing transparency and efficiency.
  Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Additional Information

• Shivaji's Coronation:
  • Shivaji was coronated as the Chhatrapati (Emperor) of the Maratha kingdom on June 6, 1674, at Raigad Fort. This event marked the formal establishment of the Maratha Empire.
• Maratha Administration:
  • The Maratha administration under Shivaji was known for its efficiency and decentralization. The kingdom was divided into provinces called Subhas, which were further divided into districts called Paraganas.
  • Each Subha was governed by a Subedar, and each Paragana was administered by a Deshmukh or Deshpande. This hierarchical structure ensured effective governance and control over the vast territories.
• Revenue System:
  • Shivaji introduced a new revenue system known as the Ryotwari system, where the state directly collected revenue from the farmers based on the measurement of land.
  • This system reduced the exploitation of farmers by intermediaries and ensured a steady flow of revenue to the state.
• Military Reforms:
  • Shivaji's military reforms included the establishment of a well-trained and disciplined army. He emphasized the importance of a strong navy to protect the coastal regions and enhance maritime trade.
  • He built several forts along the coastline and in the interior regions, which served as strategic military bases and administrative centers.