HPAS/Allied Mains 2022 Answer Writing Challenge Day 305: Model Answer

Question: What do you mean by the Begar System? Explain (4 marks/60 words)

Answer.

The system of Begar has been prevalent in India since time immemorial. Begar system means forced labour or employing anyone without remuneration. Sanads signed by these rulers with the British also provided for the Begar from each State which could also be commuted by paying money. In the Bilaspur state, Begar was originally of two kinds, regular and occasional.

The various kinds of Begar in the Simla Hill States, which were as following:

Athwara Begar: It was personal Begar to the Ruler.

Batrawal : This Begar Carriage of stone and wood for construction or repairs of State buildings, bridge etc.

Jaddi – Baddi (Hela Begar):  Supply of Begaris for bringing grass, fuel and doing, other labour on the occasion of marriages or deaths in the Ruler’s family, and the installation of the Ruler.

Begar for Chief when touring the State:  It consisted in providing Begaris for carrying loads and camp arrangements of the chief and his family when touring within the State territory. This kind of Begar did not fall heavily because the tours of the chief were not frequent.