Subedars

Subedars were a class of military officers in the Mughal Empire, serving as junior commanders under the rank of Subahdars. They were responsible for the administration and defense of specific regions or provinces within the empire. Subedars held significant power and authority, often acting as de facto governors in the absence of the Subahdar. They were appointed by the Mughal emperor and were expected to maintain law and order, collect taxes, and manage local affairs. Subedars were typically selected from the nobility or the military, and their positions were often hereditary. They played a crucial role in the governance and defense of the Mughal Empire, contributing to its stability and expansion. However, their power and influence could sometimes lead to conflicts and rivalries, particularly with the central authority in Delhi. The role of Subedars evolved over time, with some gaining more autonomy and others becoming more dependent on the emperor. Despite these changes, Subedars remained an essential part of the Mughal administrative and military structure until the empire's decline in the 18th century.