Ans. The Ashtapradhan, or the Council of Ministers, played a crucial role in Shivaji's administration. Each minister was responsible for a specific department, such as finance, military, justice, intelligence, and foreign affairs. They advised Shivaji on various matters and implemented his policies. The Ashtapradhan acted as a check and balance system, ensuring efficient governance and preventing any one minister from gaining excessive power. They were appointed based on their capabilities, and Shivaji valued their expertise and loyalty.