The correct answer is: A) Local landlords.
Zamindars were local landlords in India who were responsible for collecting taxes from the peasants and then paying a portion of the taxes to the Mughal government. They were a powerful class of landowners who often had a great deal of influence over the local population.
Option B is incorrect because princely rulers were the hereditary rulers of independent states in India. They were not subject to the authority of the Mughal government.
Option C is incorrect because British officials were appointed by the British government to administer the Indian provinces. They were not local landlords.
Option D is incorrect because peasant farmers were the lowest class of people in India. They were responsible for working the land and paying taxes to the zamindars.