a. Motive of Akbar:

Akbar was an annexationist to the very core of his heart. As an annexationist he wanted to bring as much area as possible under his rule. However, unlike the Delhi sultans of the previous period, Akbar did not encourage plundering of the conquered territories by the soldiers.

In building up an empire Akbar aimed at bringing the greater population of India under his allegiance and also increasing the strength and vitality of the empire.

b. Importance of Gujarat and Bengal:

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Conquest of Gujarat and Bengal are important for various reasons. With the annexation of Gujarat the important port and its flourishing trade’ came under the control of the Mughals.

Bengal came under the Mughal rule with the defeat of Daud Khan of Bengal in the hands of the Mughal army in the battle of Tukaroi in 1575.

With this the rule of the inde jentent Sultans of Bengal came to an end.

c. Importance of Deccan:

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Akbar turned his attention to the Deccan after he had completed the conquest of northern India. Akbar first rushed to ahmednagar.

The fall of Ahmednagar took place in 1600. Next year Ashirgarh was occupied by him. Ashirgarh campaign was the last military expedition undertaken by Akbar.

However, it must be noted that Akbar during his lifetime could not consolidate his conquests in South India.