Provincial administration under the Mughals:

(i) During the reign of Akbar the Mughal Empire was divided into twelve subas or provinces. With the expansion of the Mughal empire the number of subas increased to twenty.

(ii) Each suba was placed under a Subedar or provincial governor. He was appointed directly by the emperor. The Subedar was head of the province and responsible for maintenance of general law and order.

(iii) He encourages agriculture, trade and commerce and takes steps to enhance the revenue of the state. He was also to suppress rebellions and provide an army for expeditions.

(iv) Diwan was the head of the revenue department in the suba. He was appointed by the emperor and was an independent officer.

(v) Diwan was to supervise the revenue collection in the suba and maintain accounts of all expenditures. He was also expected to increase the area under cultivation. In many cases, advance loans were given to peasants through his office.

(vi) Bakshi was appointed by the imperial court at the recommendations of Mir Bakshi. He was responsible for checking and inspecting the horses and soldiers maintained by the mansabdars in the suba.

(vii) The Bakshi issued the paybills of both the mansabdars and the soldiers. Often his office was combined with Waqianigar. In this capacity his duty was to inform the centre about the happenings in his province.

(viii) Sadr was the representative of the central Sadr. He was responsible for the welfare of those who were engaged in religious activities and learning. He also looked after the judicial department and in that capacity supervised the works of the Qazis.

(ix) Darogai-i-Dak was responsible for maintaining the communication channel. He used to pass on letters to the court through the postal runners.

(x) Waqianavis and waqianigars were appointed to provide reports to the emperor.