First Nizam Administration

Three centuries ago, Asaf Jah 1 took over the reigns of the Deccan region in India – marking the fading away of Moghul power. Interestingly Asaf Jah 1 who labelled himself as the first Nizam of Hyderabad and the surrounding Deccan region, was a prodigy of the Moghul rule. The time was 1724 and Hyderabad was more of a neglected province, after the death of Aurangzeb in 1707.

Asaf Jah I realized that a strong administrative structure was of prime importance. This if the Nizam’s rule had to be effective and the development of Hyderabad, was to go as per plan. As the first Nizam he drew on his administrative experience, that he had gained during his tenure with the Moghuls. Asaf Jah I was appointed as the Mughal Viceroy of the Deccan, but he gradually distanced himself from the weakening Mughal central authority.

In 1724, Asaf Jah 1 declared independence from the Mughal emperor. He however realized that a complete cutoff would, not be wise and could, result in persistent tensions. As the first Nizam, he continued to maintain basic allegiance with the Moghuls. This political foresight allowed him to lay the foundation for a stable and autonomous rule in the Deccan which included Hyderabad.

As an administrator Asaf Jah I, was widely respected for his pragmatic and merit-based approach to governance. One of the hallmarks of his administration was his policy of appointing officials based on merit, loyalty, and competence, rather than religion, caste, or lineage.

The policy of appointing officials based on merit and experience, worked to the benefit of the Nizams. This policy was followed by all Nizams, until 1948 when Asaf Jah 7 the seventh Nizam was forced, to give up power by the Indian government. Hyderabad was included within the Indian framework and administration.

Historians elaborate on how Asaf Jah 1 ensured inclusiveness and tolerance, through the hiring process for important government positions. He appointed both Muslims and Hindus to high positions in his administration. As the first Nizam he employed Marathas, Rajputs, Brahmins, and Kayasthas in various administrative and military roles, recognizing their capabilities rather than their background. This inclusive approach, made the people more positive in their expectations and administration became more effective.

Shifting from 1724 to present times, corporates that hire and compensate managers and staff, based on merit – seem to perform better. Such corporates also show clear signs of resilience when the business, goes through tough phases. The same type of resilience is what, kept the Nizams in control of Hyderabad from 1724 to 1948.

SUMMARY

The Nizam's rule focused on strengthening the internal treasury while also ensuring the development of Hyderabad and the welfare of its people. This was a common thread that ran across all the Nizams and kept delivering positive results. Asaf Jah I ruled during the decline of the Mughal Empire, a time of chaos and shifting power. His meritocratic appointments helped him build a stable and loyal administration in the Deccan. It is often observed that, Asaf Jah I was a practical and wise administrator who valued talent over title, which was one of the reasons he successfully carved out an independent state in a turbulent political era.