Mughal Administration c15.s1.t1.6

c15.s1.t1.6

Second.—At the beginning of the year inform yourself, as far as possible, about the condition of every ryot, as to whether they are engaged in cultivation or are abstaining from it. If they can cultivate, ply them with inducements and assurances of kindness; and if they desire favour in any matter show them that favour. But if after inquiry it is found that, in spite of their being able to till and having had rainfall, they are abstaining from cultivation, you should urge and threaten them and employ force and beating. Where the revenue is fixed at an unalterable rate for a specified quantity of land (kharāj-i-muazzaf) inform the peasants that [115a] it will be realised from them whether they cultivate or not. If you find that the peasants are unable to procure the implements of tillage, advance to them money from the State in the form of *taqāvi* after taking security.