What was Akbar s principal purpose in adopting a policy of befriending powerful Rajput chiefs and seeking their cooperation in his empire?

Introduction / Context:
Akbar s policy towards Rajput chiefs is a classic example of how diplomacy and alliance building can support imperial consolidation. Instead of pursuing a purely hostile line, he offered honour, high mansabs, and in some cases matrimonial ties, integrating Rajputs into the Mughal ruling elite. This question asks you to identify the principal purpose behind this approach, which was strategic rather than purely personal.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Akbar entered into alliances with many Rajput chiefs.
• He employed them in his administration and army.
• Options suggest different possible motives, such as matrimonial alliances, destroying Afghan power, or preventing foreign invasions.

Concept / Approach:
While marriages and the weakening of rival Afghan groups were side benefits, Akbar s main goal was to stabilise his rule by winning over local power holders and reducing resistance. By making Rajputs stakeholders in the Mughal system, he transformed potential enemies into allies. This broadened the social base of the empire, especially in north and west India, and helped establish long lasting peace and cooperation. Therefore, the best answer is that his main purpose was to strengthen the foundations of the Mughal Empire.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Akbar invited Rajput rulers to accept Mughal suzerainty, offering them autonomy in internal matters and high positions at court. Step 2: Note that he married Rajput princesses, but these marriages were a part of a wider political strategy. Step 3: Understand that incorporation of Rajputs into the nobility and army ensured their loyalty and reduced rebellions. Step 4: Recognise that although this policy indirectly weakened Afghan groups, that was not its sole or primary objective. Step 5: See that checking future foreign invasions was a broader concern, but alliances with Rajputs mainly served internal consolidation. Step 6: Conclude that the principal purpose was to strengthen and stabilise the Mughal Empire in India.

Verification / Alternative check:
Historians often describe Akbar s Rajput policy as a master stroke that broadened the social and regional base of the Mughal state. Accounts of his reign highlight how Rajput chiefs like Raja Man Singh played crucial roles in administration and military campaigns, reflecting the success of this strategy.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Securing matrimonial alliances was a means, not an end in itself. Wiping out Afghan power and checking foreign invasions were secondary outcomes, not the main purpose. Choosing these options would narrow down Akbar s strategy to a single dimension and miss the broader picture of empire building.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes focus too much on the romanticised aspect of royal marriages and assume they were the primary objective. Keeping in mind the larger context of political consolidation helps avoid this simplistic view.

Final Answer:
Akbar s principal purpose was to strengthen and stabilise the foundations of the Mughal Empire in India by winning Rajput cooperation.