Q. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the contributions and administrative policy of Peshwa Baji Rao I (1720–1740 CE)?
1.He popularized the vision of ‘Hindu Pad Padshahi’ (Hindu Empire) and first led Maratha military expeditions into North Indian territories like Malwa and Gujarat.
2.He established a centralized administration in Pune, ensuring that the Chhatrapati at Satara retained all military and judicial authority.
3.His administrative policy led to the establishment of the semi-autonomous Maratha houses (Holkar, Scindia, Gaikwad) by granting them large, permanent Saranjami Jagirs.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. Baji Rao I was the most expansionist Peshwa. He pushed the Maratha frontier across the Narmada and into North India (Malwa, Bundelkhand, Delhi).
- Statement 2: Incorrect. While he paid nominal allegiance to Shahu (Chhatrapati), Baji Rao I effectively consolidated all military and executive authority under the Peshwa’s office in Pune.
- Statement 3: Correct. Baji Rao I initiated the policy of decentralization through the Saranjami system, assigning large territories (revenue collection rights) in newly conquered areas to loyal military commanders like Ranoji Scindia, Malhar Rao Holkar, and Damaji Gaikwad. This later led to the Maratha Confederacy.
