The Role of the Banjaras as Commissariat in the Mughal Military Expeditions, c. 1526–1720 AD

Abstract

One of the most important reasons behind the success of the Mughal military campaigns and expeditions was the regular supply of the rasad (ration), fodder and forage to the location of military encampment. It has been observed that due to lack of proper supply and transport of the food material, the armies often had even starved. 1 Indeed, this scarcity was caused due to the non-arrival of the banjaras on time with various supplies. 2 Consequently, the Mughal rulers and military commanders always tried their best to utilise the services of the banjaras, especially during their engagement in military campaigns. In the absence of any specific department regarding the supply of food, grain, and fodder to the far distant locality during the military campaigns, the Mughal state mainly depended upon the services provided by the Banjaras as the transporters of essential commodities required for the Mughal military expeditions. The logistics associated to procurement of foodstuff and fodder was crucial related to the Mughal military expeditions. Consequently, in this context, the usefulness of banjaras as transporter was undoubtedly of great importance.