Difference Between Chauth and Sardeshmukhi: Important Facts for UPSC
Difference between Chauth and Sardeshmukhi [ Chauth and Sardeshmukhi UPSC difference between Chauth and Sardeshmukhi Chauth and Sardeshmukhi meaning differentiate between Chauth and Sardeshmukhi what is Chauth and Sardeshmukhi what is difference between Chauth and Sardeshmukhi Chauth and Sardeshmukhi difference]
If you are searching for the “Difference between Chauth and Sardeshmukhi”, then you are in the right place. This topic is very important for UPSC and comes under Maratha Empire in the Medieval history of India.
What were Chauth and Sardeshmukhi?
Chauth and Sardeshmukhi were two types of taxes collected by Marathas during medieval times. Chauth and Sardeshmukhi were essential sources of income for the Maratha administration. Sometimes it was also called a tool of Sheer, Plunder, or Loot.
Sardeshmukhi was imposed 10% as revenue on the entire Maratha empire. Shivaji claimed himself as the supreme head of the Empire i.e Sardeshmukh.
Chauth was 1/4th of the total revenue from the neighboring feudal lords whose territory did not form part of the homeland. This tax was taken from them to avoid the oppression of any third power.
Sardeshmukhi
- Sardeshmukhi was collected by the Maratha King from the autonomous feudal lords called Deshmukh.
- Further, they lived in peripheral areas around the Maratha kingdom.
- Deshmukh was under the nominal control of the king. King’s control would be very minimal control over them, whatever territory was granted to Deshmukh, his entire administration like revenue collection, police, and judicial reforms, etc. were looked after by Deshmukh.
- Deshmukh used to pay 10% of the total revenue to Maratha King. Moreover, it was the recognition of the overlordship of the Maratha King.
Chauth
- Income from Chauth was divided between the Maratha King and Military Commanders.
- 75% of the revenue was given to Maratha Commanders.
- 16% was given to the King to manage administrative expenditures.
- Panth Sachiva received 6% to manage their expenditure.
- 3% of the revenue was reserved for the king. Further, the King must use this for donation purposes.
- Chauth helps stabilize the relationship of Marathas with their neighbors.
- Due to this, fear and hostility decreased but they intensely disliked it because it was 25% of the total revenue.
Also Read: Iqta System
What is the Difference between Chauth and Sardeshmukhi?
| Chauth | Sardeshmukhi |
|---|---|
| 1/4th of Total Revenue | 1/10th of Total Revenue |
| Taken from the whole Maratha Empire | Taken from Neighboring Feudal Lords |
| To protect them from 3rd power | No such reason |
| Divided between King and Commanders | Only King had right |
What was the Significance of Chauth and Sardeshmukhi in Indian history?
Chauth and Sardeshmukhi played a significant role in the political and economic landscape of India during the Maratha Empire and their legacy continues to shape the country’s history.
When was the practice of Chauth and Sardeshmukhi abolished?
The practice of Chauth and Sardeshmukhi was abolished in the 19th century following the British colonization of India.
How did Chauth and Sardeshmukhi impact the local population?
Chauth and Sardeshmukhi were widely unpopular among the local population and were often seen as oppressive and exploitative.
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