Correct answer: (a) Despatcher of royal decrees
Explanation
- A
Despatcher of royal decrees
Option (a) claims that 'Khareetadar' was the despatcher of royal decrees. This is the correct option because the term 'Khareeta' refers to a royal letter or dispatch, making this officer responsible for sending them.
- B
Main custodian of the royal palace
Option (b) claims that the term denotes the main custodian of the royal palace. This is incorrect as palace custody was assigned to separate officials like the Deorhidar.
- C
Chief Officer of Pargana
Option (c) claims that Khareetadar was the chief officer of a Pargana. This is incorrect because the chief administrative officer of a Pargana was the Shiqdar or Amil.
- D
An officer who was trained in keeping accounts
Option (d) claims the officer was trained in keeping accounts. Financial record keeping was the domain of distinct revenue officials such as the Diwan or Karkun, not the Khareetadar.
Summary. Official key is (a) Despatcher of royal decrees. The question asks for the historical administrative meaning of the term 'Khareetadar' used in medieval or princely administration. Options (b), (c), and (d) misattribute the title to palace custody, regional administration, and financial accounting respectively. Only option (a) accurately identifies the role linked to the dispatch of royal letters and decrees. Aspirants must carefully distinguish between various court titles to avoid confusion.