WBCS.LIVE practice question

The council of ministers during the time Shivaji Maharaj was known as:

Solve this multiple-choice question and check the correct answer with its explanation below.

Answer options

  1. Agraharam
  2. Ashtadiggajas
  3. Ashta Pradhan
  4. Navaratnas

Correct answer and explanation

Correct answer: Ashta Pradhan

Explanation: The correct answer is C. Ashta Pradhan. The Ashta Pradhan was a council of eight ministers formed by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to assist in the administration of his kingdom. Each minister had a specific portfolio, such as Peshwa (Prime Minister), Amatya (Finance), Sacheev (Secretary), Senapati (Commander-in-Chief), and others. This administrative system ensured effective governance, division of responsibilities, and a check on the powers of any single official. It reflected Shivaji's visionary leadership in establishing a strong and efficient bureaucratic structure in the Maratha Empire.