Akbar, also known as Jalaluddin Muhammad Akbar, was the third Mughal Emperor of India, ruling from 1556 to 1605. During his reign, Akbar implemented a number of policies that had a significant impact on the Mughal Empire and its people.
One of Akbar's most notable policies was his policy of religious tolerance. Akbar believed that religion should not be used as a means of dividing people, and he encouraged religious harmony among the diverse population of the Mughal Empire. To this end, he abolished the jizya, a tax on non-Muslims, and he also abolished the pilgrimage tax. In addition, Akbar allowed Hindus to hold high positions in the government and even appointed Hindus to the highest court of the land.
Another important policy implemented by Akbar was his policy of centralized administration. Prior to Akbar's reign, the Mughal Empire was a decentralized state, with local rulers having a great deal of autonomy. However, Akbar centralized the administration of the empire, bringing all the provinces under the direct control of the central government. This helped to bring stability to the empire and allowed for better coordination and organization of the government's policies and activities.
Akbar also implemented a number of reforms in the realm of taxation and land ownership. He introduced the zabt system, a new system of land revenue assessment that was based on the actual yield of the land rather than fixed rates. This helped to reduce the burden of taxes on the peasants and allowed for more equitable distribution of wealth. In addition, Akbar introduced the mansabdari system, a system of military organization that was based on merit rather than birth. This helped to create a more efficient and effective military, and it also allowed for social mobility and upward mobility within the Mughal Empire.
Overall, Akbar's policies had a significant impact on the Mughal Empire and helped to create a more prosperous and harmonious society. His policy of religious tolerance helped to promote unity among the diverse population of the empire, and his centralized administration brought stability and efficiency to the government. His reforms in taxation and land ownership helped to create a more equitable distribution of wealth and allowed for social mobility within the empire. These policies helped to establish Akbar as one of the most successful and influential rulers in the history of the Mughal Empire.