The administrative setup of Hyderabad, also known as the Hyderabad State or Hyderabad Deccan, during the period of British rule and later under the Nizams, encompassed a unique blend of traditional feudal structures and modern administrative systems. Here are the salient aspects of the Hyderabad administrative setup.
Feudal System
- Hyderabad was a princely state ruled by the Nizams, who maintained a feudal system characterized by a hierarchical structure of governance.
- The Nizam was the paramount ruler and held absolute power over the state’s administration, economy, and judiciary.
Administrative Divisions
- Hyderabad State was divided into several administrative divisions known as “sarkars,” each headed by a “sarkar officer” responsible for revenue collection, law enforcement, and administration.
- The sarkars were further divided into “talukas” or districts, each under the jurisdiction of a “talukdar” who administered local affairs.
Revenue System
- The revenue system in Hyderabad was primarily based on the “jagirdari” system, where revenue assignments (jagirs) were granted to nobles, officials, and military officers in exchange for their services.
- The jagirdars were responsible for collecting land revenue from peasants and forwarding a portion of it to the state treasury.
Judicial System
- The judicial system in Hyderabad was a blend of Islamic law (Sharia) and customary laws prevalent in the region.
- The Nizam appointed qazis (Islamic judges) to administer justice according to Islamic law, while traditional village councils known as “panchayats” settled disputes at the local level.
British Influence
- While Hyderabad remained a princely state, the British had significant influence over its administration, particularly in matters of foreign policy and defense.
- The British Resident, a diplomatic representative, was stationed at the Nizam’s court to advise on administrative matters and ensure British interests were protected.
Educational System
- Hyderabad witnessed significant developments in education under the Nizams, with the establishment of several schools, colleges, and universities.
- Institutions like the Osmania University, founded in 1918, played a crucial role in promoting higher education and research in the region.
Police and Military Forces
- Hyderabad maintained its own police force responsible for maintaining law and order within the state.
- The Nizam’s military forces, known as the “Hyderabad State Forces,” consisted of infantry, cavalry, and artillery units, which played a crucial role in maintaining internal security and defending the state against external threats.
Cultural and Religious Diversity
- Hyderabad was known for its rich cultural and religious diversity, with Hinduism and Islam being the predominant religions.
- The Nizams were known for their tolerance towards different religious communities, which contributed to the region’s socio-cultural harmony.
Administrative Reforms
- The Nizams implemented several administrative reforms aimed at modernizing the state’s governance structure.
- Reforms included the introduction of modern administrative departments, taxation reforms, and the establishment of municipal bodies to improve urban governance.
Integration with India
- Hyderabad’s administrative setup underwent significant changes with its integration into independent India in 1948.
- The state’s feudal structures were gradually dismantled, and Hyderabad was reorganized into smaller administrative units following the States Reorganization Act of 1956.
In conclusion, the administrative setup of Hyderabad during the period of British rule and under the Nizams was characterized by a blend of traditional feudal structures and modern administrative systems. Despite its unique features, Hyderabad witnessed significant developments in various spheres of governance, including education, law enforcement, and judicial administration, contributing to its socio-economic and cultural growth.
