Meaning of the term Mushrif-i-mumalik used during Delhi Sultanate
The Mushrif-i-mumalik was a term used during the Delhi Sultanate to refer to the officer in charge of revenue collection in a district or province. The Mushrif-i-mumalik was responsible for assessing the land and crop yields, collecting taxes from the peasants, and ensuring that the revenue was properly accounted for and remitted to the central treasury.
The Mushrif-i-mumalik was typically appointed by the Sultan or his representatives and held significant power in the district or province they oversaw. They had the authority to make decisions regarding land tenure, water rights, and other matters related to agriculture and revenue collection. They were also responsible for maintaining law and order and resolving disputes between different groups.
The position of Mushrif-i-mumalik was an important one in the administration of the Delhi Sultanate and was often held by members of the nobility or other influential families. The role was also similar to that of the Zamindars in the later Mughal Empire, who were responsible for collecting revenue from the land and ensuring its proper distribution.