<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Maharaja Ranjit Singh's reign exemplified a model of centralized rule that successfully balanced authority with a degree of self-governance for various communities within the Sikh Empire. Recognizing the diversity of his subjects, Ranjit Singh implemented policies that allowed for local autonomy while maintaining a centralized authority. The administrative structure included representation from different religious and ethnic groups, fostering a sense of inclusivity and self-governance at the regional level.</p>
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<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Ranjit Singh's approach to self-governance was characterized by the appointment of officials, known as the "Misldars," to govern different territories. These Misldars held significant autonomy in managing their respective regions, contributing to local governance and administration. While they operated within the framework of the larger Sikh Empire, the decentralized nature of governance allowed for flexibility and responsiveness to the specific needs of diverse communities. This balance between centralized authority and regional autonomy contributed to a stable and cohesive empire, where various communities could participate in self-governance within the broader framework of the Sikh state.</p>
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<p style="margin: 0in; font-family: Söhne; font-size: 12.0pt; color: #374151;">Moreover, Ranjit Singh's policies promoted religious tolerance, allowing for the coexistence of diverse religious communities within the empire. This commitment to pluralism and self-governance contributed to a sense of social harmony and stability. While the central authority held the reins of the empire, the localized self-governance mechanisms ensured that the unique characteristics and needs of different regions were taken into account, creating a more participatory and adaptive system of governance.</p>