History Notes Chapter 7 The Administration of the Swaraj Class 7 Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – History Class 7
1. Shivaji Maharaj’s Administration

Shivaji Maharaj followed a well-organized system of governance. He set up a Council of Eight Ministers, known as Ashtapradhan Mandal, to help him rule Swaraj efficiently.

 Ashtapradhan Mandal (Council of Eight Ministers):

This council had eight important ministers, each handling a different responsibility.

1. Peshwa (Prime Minister): Handled all administrative work.
2. Amatya (Finance Minister): Managed revenue collection and taxes.
3. Mantri (Home Minister): Kept records of the king’s activities.
4. Sachiv (Secretary): Issued government orders.
5. Senapati (Commander-in-Chief): Led the army in battles.
6. Nyayadhish (Chief Justice): Ensured justice and law enforcement.
7. Panditrao (Religious Head): Took care of temples and religious matters.
8. Sumant (Foreign Minister): Handled relations with other kingdoms.

Importance:

• The Ashtapradhan Mandal helped Shivaji Maharaj govern Swaraj smoothly.
• Each minister had to follow rules and was supervised by the king.

2. Revenue System

Shivaji Maharaj wanted farmers to be treated fairly. He introduced a new revenue system to improve agriculture and trade.

• Annaji Datto was appointed to collect taxes fairly.
• Farmers had to pay only 30-40% tax instead of earlier 50% tax.
• In case of drought or war, taxes were reduced.
• Loans, seeds, bullocks, and tools were given to poor farmers.

Result: Farmers became happy and more productive, increasing Swaraj’s wealth.

3. Military System

Shivaji Maharaj built a strong and disciplined army. His soldiers were loyal and well-trained.

A. Infantry (Foot Soldiers)

• The army had Havaldars, Jumledars, and Sarnobats to command troops.
• Strict rules were followed in battle.
• Soldiers were not allowed to harm women or steal from temples.

B. Cavalry (Horse Riders)

The cavalry had two types of soldiers:

• Shiledars (Own Horses) – Provided their own horses.
• Bargirs (State Horses) – Used government horses.

The cavalry helped in fast attacks on enemies.

C. Forts and Fort Officers

Shivaji Maharaj built and strengthened forts to protect Swaraj.

• Karkhanis: Managed weapons and war materials in forts.
• Havaldar: Head of fort security.
• Killedar: In charge of fort management.

Result: These forts helped Shivaji Maharaj defend Swaraj from enemies.

4. Navy System

Shivaji Maharaj was the first Indian king to build a strong navy. He protected the coastline and stopped foreign invasions.

• Sindhudurg Fort was built on an island near Malvan to protect the coastline.
• The navy had warships like Gurabs, Galbats, and Pal.
• The navy fought against the Portuguese, British, and Siddis.

Result: His navy controlled sea trade and kept enemies away.

5. Justice System

Shivaji Maharaj wanted fair and quick justice for everyone.

• Nyayadhish (Chief Justice) handled important cases.
• Strict laws were made to punish criminals.
• He ensured that no one was treated unfairly.

Result: The people of Swaraj felt safe and respected the law.

6. Welfare Policies

Shivaji Maharaj cared for his people and worked for their welfare.

• Encouraged trade and business to increase wealth.
• Stopped corruption and ensured officials worked honestly.
• Protected women and farmers.
• Provided help during natural disasters like famine or drought.

Result: Swaraj became prosperous and strong.