UPSC Prelims 2000 · General Studies
Question 30: History and Culture
Who among the following streamlined the Maratha administration after Sambhaji?
AnswerThe answer is (b).
After Sambhaji's execution in 1689 the Marathas passed through years of war and rival claims. Balaji Vishwanath, Peshwa under Shahu from 1713, restored order, won over the Maratha chiefs and reorganised the administration. In 1719 his treaty with the Sayyid brothers got the Marathas chauth and sardeshmukhi over the Deccan provinces, and the Peshwa's office became the centre of Maratha power.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Rajaram spent his reign leading the war against the Mughals from Jinji, not streamlining the administration.
- (b) Right: Balaji Vishwanath, as Peshwa, restored order and streamlined the administration.
- (c) Ganga Bai is not credited with reorganising the Maratha administration.
- (d) Nanaji Deshmukh is not credited with this.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2000, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.