Mughal Administration c15.s1.t1.11

c15.s1.t1.11

*Fifth*.—As for a desert tract (*bādia*), if the owner be known, leave it with him ; do not give possession of it to others, [117*b*]. If the owner be not known, and if there be no probability of *audāt* (minerals) in the land, then, as policy may dictate, give the land to whomsoever you consider fit to take care of it. Whosoever makes it arable must be recognised as the owner of the tract and the land should not be wrested from him.† If the land contains minerals forbid everything that may hinder the mining of the land ; and for the gain from the land, forbid cultivation, etc.; and do not let any one take possession of it, and recognise none as its owner.