Assertion (A): During the time of Akbar, for every ten cavalrymen, the mansabdars had to maintain twenty horses.
Reason (R): Horses had to be rested while on march, and replacements were necessary in times of war.

Correct Option

Under Akbar's Mansabdari system, mansabdars were required to maintain a specific number of cavalrymen (sawar). The established regulation mandated that for every cavalryman, two horses were to be maintained. This meant that for ten cavalrymen, twenty horses were required, ensuring the operational readiness and efficiency of the cavalry contingent.

The rationale behind this two-horse policy was primarily practical. Horses frequently experienced fatigue or injury during extensive marches and prolonged campaigns. Additionally, replacements were crucial during active warfare to maintain the strength and mobility of the cavalry. Therefore, the need for resting horses during marches and having replacements available for combat directly necessitated the maintenance of extra horses, making Reason (R) the correct explanation for Assertion (A).

Incorrect Options

Options 2, 3, and 4 are incorrect because both Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are factually accurate statements regarding Akbar's Mansabdari system and its practical requirements. Furthermore, Reason (R) accurately provides the logical explanation for the requirement stated in Assertion (A), establishing a direct causal link between the practical needs of cavalry operations and the administrative policy of maintaining additional horses.