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main crops grown
What were the main crops grown during the Mughal Empire?
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2 Replies
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During the Mughal Empire, which spanned from the early 16th century to the mid-19th century, agriculture was a crucial part of the economy and daily life. The Mughal rulers promoted and supported agricultural development, leading to a diverse range of crops being cultivated across the empire. Some of the main crops grown during this period included:
Grains:
Wheat: A staple food, especially in the northern regions like Punjab and parts of the Gangetic plain.
Rice: Widely grown in the eastern regions, such as Bengal and the lower Ganges valley, where the climate is conducive to its cultivation.
Pulses:
Lentils (Masoor dal), Chickpeas (Chana dal), and Pigeon peas (Toor dal): These were important sources of protein and were grown across various parts of the empire.
Oilseeds:
Sesame and Mustard: These were grown for their oil, which was used in cooking and other applications.
Sugarcane:
Grown in regions like Bengal and the lower Ganges valley, where it was processed into sugar and jaggery.
Cotton:
Cultivated in regions like Gujarat and parts of the Deccan, cotton was an important cash crop and was used in the textile industry.
Spices:
Cardamom, Cinnamon, and Cloves: These were grown in southern India and other regions and were important for trade both within and outside the empire.
Fruits:
Mangoes, Oranges, and Pomegranates: These were grown in various parts of the empire and were prized for their flavor and nutritional value.
Vegetables:
A wide variety of vegetables were cultivated, including onions, garlic, spinach, and cucumbers.
Hemp:
Grown in some regions, especially in northern India, for its fiber and seeds.
The Mughal Empire’s emphasis on agricultural development included the construction of irrigation systems and promotion of new farming techniques, which contributed to a flourishing agrarian economy. This diversity in crops not only supported the diet of the population but also facilitated trade and economic prosperity across the empire.
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During the Mughal Empire, several key crops were cultivated, reflecting both the agricultural diversity and economic importance of farming. The main crops included:
Rice: A staple food in many regions, particularly in the eastern parts of the empire.
Wheat: Grown extensively in the northern plains, it was a primary food source for people.
Barley: Commonly cultivated in various regions, often used for both human consumption and animal feed.
Cotton: A significant cash crop, important for the textile industry; the Mughal Empire was known for its high-quality cotton fabrics.
Sugarcane: Grown in abundance, it was processed into sugar and used in various forms in cooking.
Spices: Various spices, including cardamom, pepper, and saffron, were cultivated for their high value in trade.
Fruits and Vegetables: Crops like melons, pomegranates, and legumes were commonly grown.
These crops not only supported the local population but also contributed to the empire’s economy through trade.
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