The correct answer is: C. 1576
Akbar merged Bihar and Bengal in the Mughal empire in 1576. He had conquered Bihar in 1575, and Bengal in 1576. After conquering Bengal, Akbar appointed his son, Prince Salim, as the governor of the province.
Akbar’s decision to merge Bihar and Bengal was a strategic one. He wanted to create a strong and unified province that would be able to resist the Portuguese and other European powers who were trying to establish footholds in the region.
The merger of Bihar and Bengal was a success. The province became one of the most prosperous and powerful in the Mughal empire. It also played a key role in Akbar’s expansionist policies.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option A: 1560. This is incorrect because Akbar did not conquer Bihar until 1575.
- Option B: 1575. This is incorrect because Akbar did not conquer Bengal until 1576.
- Option C: 1576. This is the correct answer because Akbar merged Bihar and Bengal in the Mughal empire in 1576.
- Option D: 1572. This is incorrect because Akbar did not merge Bihar and Bengal in the Mughal empire in 1572.