How did Akbar’s policies reduce discrimination against Hindus?

Akbar the Great reduced discrimination against Hindus through several key administrative and social reforms aimed at fostering religious tolerance and integrating his diverse subjects into the Mughal state.123

His primary policies included:

• Abolition of Discriminatory Taxes: Akbar eliminated the jizyah, a tax previously imposed on non-Muslims in lieu of military service, and also abolished the taxation of pilgrims.34
• Inclusive Administration: He actively promoted Hindu participation in his government, particularly among the Rajput warrior class. Rajput princes were appointed to high-ranking positions as generals and provincial governors, and Hindus were encouraged to serve as his principal confidants and policymakers.34
• Religious Equality in Grants: Akbar reformed the administration of religious grants, ensuring they were available to learned and pious individuals of all faiths, including Hindu pandits, Jain missionaries, and others.3
• Ending Forced Conversions: He prohibited the practice of forcibly converting prisoners of war to Islam.3
• Promotion of Pluralism: By sidelining the conservative ulama and establishing a salon for interfaith dialogue, Akbar sought to move beyond sectarian divisions, eventually creating the Din-i Ilahi to unite his subjects into a cohesive political community.123