Short Answer

Aurangzeb followed strict policies in the Mughal Empire based on Islamic law and strong central control. He tried to expand the empire and maintain discipline in administration and society.

His major policies included religious orthodoxy, reimposition of Jizya tax on non-Muslims, expansion through wars, and strict control over nobles. These policies made his rule powerful but also created conflicts in the empire.

Detailed Explanation

Aurangzeb Major Policies

Religious Policy

Aurangzeb followed a strict religious policy based on Islamic principles. He was more orthodox compared to earlier Mughal rulers like Akbar.

He reimposed the Jizya tax on non-Muslims, which had been removed by Akbar. This created dissatisfaction among many communities. He also destroyed some temples, which increased tension between different religious groups.

Unlike Akbar’s policy of tolerance, Aurangzeb focused more on promoting Islamic law in governance.

Expansion Policy

Aurangzeb wanted to expand the Mughal Empire to its maximum extent. He spent most of his rule in military campaigns.

He fought long wars in the Deccan region against the Marathas, Bijapur, and Golconda. These wars helped him expand territory, but they also drained the empire’s resources.

His continuous military expansion made the empire very large but also difficult to control.

Administrative Policy

Aurangzeb tried to maintain strict control over administration. He followed the Mansabdari system but kept a closer watch on nobles.

He reduced corruption and tried to enforce discipline among officials. However, his strict control sometimes created dissatisfaction among nobles.

He also reduced unnecessary spending in the royal court and lived a simple lifestyle compared to earlier Mughal emperors.

Military Policy

Aurangzeb strengthened the army and focused on continuous warfare. He believed that military power was necessary to keep control over a large empire.

He personally led many campaigns and spent most of his time in the battlefield, especially in the Deccan region.

However, constant wars weakened the empire’s economy and exhausted military resources.

Religious Administration

Aurangzeb followed Islamic laws in administration. He appointed officials to ensure that Islamic rules were followed in society.

He banned some cultural practices that he considered un-Islamic. This strict approach affected the cultural diversity of the empire.

While it strengthened his support among some groups, it also created opposition from others.

Economic Policy

Aurangzeb tried to improve revenue collection to support his large army and wars. He maintained the land revenue system but increased pressure on peasants in some areas due to heavy military expenses.

The long wars in the Deccan increased financial burden on the empire.

Conclusion

Aurangzeb’s policies were based on strict religious ideas, military expansion, and strong control over administration. While they expanded the empire, they also created internal problems and weakened unity in the long run.