Zamindar (Jagirdar)

A Zamindar or Jagirdar was a landowner or noble in historical India, responsible for collecting taxes from farmers and managing large estates. They often acted as intermediaries between the government and local farmers, maintaining law and order within their territory. Their income derived mainly from land revenues, which they paid to the ruling authority. While they held significant local power and influence, their authority was subordinate to the central or regional rulers. The roles evolved over time, especially during colonial rule, where their positions changed with administrative reforms and land policies.