Question q12CommentGS1GS1
The Marathas posed formidable challenge to British expansion but could not consolidate their power into centralized authority capable of rivalling British dominance in India. Comment.
Introduction
Marathas were one of most formidable power after fall of House of Mughals that could challenge British expansion in India.
20 words
Main Body
Formidable challenge of Marathas:
1Uncontrolled large swaths of land in central and northern India.
2Decentralized system - emerged at strength against British as they had to deal with multiple power centres.
3Had navy under its name - to control coastline in west and trade routes therefore.
4Multiple Anglo-Maratha wars longer before they could be completely subdued by loss of men, money, material to British.
Why Marathas could not overcome British?
1Modern military of British as against medieval welfare science of Marathas
2Divided House of Marathas
(2a) Raghumath Rao allied with British in Treaty of Salsette.
3Could not forge strategic alliances with neighbours like Nizam, Hyderabad.
4Lack of unified tax sometime and regular army. → equally [?]
Sardarmukteriequivalent to war loss.
5Absence of futuristic vision and plan for governance structure.
6British had great leadership with second in command (e.g., like [Nysad/Nizam?]).
152 words12 paragraphs
Conclusion
Therefore Marathas could not overcome British dominance and consolidate their power who centralized during.
14 words
- Clear question statement with directive
- Identifies Marathas as significant post-Mughal power
- Mentions multiple factors: territorial control, decentralization, naval power
- References trade routes and coastal control
Topper
Aditya Acharya
AIR 962024
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Modern Indian History
Eve of British Conquest
Maratha power and British resistance
Writing Stats
186
Total words
12
Paragraphs
analytical
Tone