The Military System of the Marathas, with a Brief Account of Their Maritime Activities c7.23

c7.23

On paper the scheme looked quite simple and eminently practical. The burden of the civil administration and the military defence of the major portion of the empire was thrown on these saranjamholders. Their interest thus became, or was expected to be, strictly identified with those of the State. They were to work a ready-made and clearly defined scheme and a number of civil officers whom they could not dismiss were deputed to assist them or see that they did not in any way deviate from the line laid down by the Peshwa's Government. As under the earlier scheme of Balaji Vishwanath, the chief Sardars could (with the Peshwa's permission) lead expeditions of conquest and annexation, which would at once enhance their own importance and contribute to the expansion of the empire. The terms were generally precise and unambiguous, as we find in the *sanad* granted to Mahipat Rao Kavde in 1762-3. Mahipat Rao had previously obtained a *saranjam* for 2,500 horse. Under the terms of the new grant he was expected to maintain an additional force of 1,000. Each horseman was to receive a salary of 250 Rupees a year, all charges included. And out of the income of his fief Mahipat Rao was to maintain the following civil staff on an annual salary indicated below: