Paper Details

Abstract : This research paper examines the agricultural system and peasant life in the Gwalior State during the rule of the Scindia dynasty (1726–1949) from a historical and analytical perspective. The primary objective of the study is to analyze the structure of land tenure, revenue system, irrigation facilities, and agricultural production, and to evaluate their impact on the socio-economic conditions of the peasantry. The study adopts a historical research methodology based on both primary sources, such as archival records, administrative documents, and gazetteers, and secondary sources, including books and research articles. The findings reveal that the agricultural system during the Scindia period was largely traditional and heavily dependent on monsoon rainfall, with limited irrigation infrastructure. Land ownership patterns included zamindari and tenancy systems, which often imposed a considerable burden of taxation on the peasants. Furthermore, the peasantry generally experienced low income levels, indebtedness, and a poor standard of living. Frequent natural calamities, uncertain rainfall, and high land revenue demands further aggravated their conditions. Although certain administrative and irrigation reforms were introduced by the Scindia rulers, their impact remained limited in improving overall agricultural productivity and peasant welfare. The study concludes that the agricultural system under the Scindia rule exhibited a mixed character, combining traditional practices with partial reforms. However, these reforms were insufficient to bring significant improvement in the socio-economic conditions of the peasantry. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the historical dynamics of rural economy and agrarian life in princely India.

Keywords: Gwalior State, Scindia Dynasty, Agriculture, Peasant Life, Land Revenue System.