18th Century India

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option b

Explanation
Item 1 is correct: After the decline of the Mughal Empire, several independent and semi-independent powers emerged, such as Bengal, Avadh, Hyderabad, Mysore, and the Maratha Kingdom. The rulers of these states established law and order within their regions, ensuring political stability and efficient governance. They implemented viable economic and administrative systems, which allowed their states to function effectively.

Item 2 is correct: These states prevented any breakdown of internal trade and even tried to promote foreign trade, but they did nothing to modernize the basic industrial and commercial structure of their states.

Item 3 is correct: The rulers of these regions maintained secular governance. Their politics were invariably non-communal, and they did not discriminate on religious grounds in public appointments, civil services, or military positions. The motivation behind their rule was primarily based on political and economic interests, not religious affiliations. Even the rebels who fought against their authority did not base their resistance on the religious identity of the rulers.

Item 4 is not correct: While some states, like the Marathas, sought to reduce the burden on peasants, in general, the condition of peasants in many regions deteriorated due to continuous warfare, heavy taxation, and the absence of a strong central authority to address agrarian issues.