Q. The administration during the minority of Sawai Madhav Rao (1774–1795 CE) was primarily characterized by:

[A] A period of administrative chaos and military decline due to constant infighting among the Council members.

[B] The effective centralization of power by Mahadji Scindia, who controlled both the military and diplomatic affairs of the Confederacy.

[C] The establishment of a stable, collegial government dominated by the wise diplomacy of Nana Fadnavis and the military strength of Mahadji Scindia.

[D] A policy of isolationism, focusing entirely on internal consolidation and avoiding any conflict with the British or Mysore.

Answer: C
Notes:

Explanation:

  • (c) Correct. This period is often called the ‘Pentarchy’ or the time of the ‘Bara Bhai’ Council. It was successful due to the effective balance between Nana Fadnavis (the master statesman and diplomat of Pune) and Mahadji Scindia (the powerful military chief and effective restorer of Mughal authority in Delhi). Together, they successfully navigated the First Anglo-Maratha War and maintained the Confederacy’s power.
  • (b) Incorrect. Mahadji was powerful, but his power was balanced by Nana Fadnavis in Pune.
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