However, based on typical curricula for this level, the chapter likely commences with the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate in the aftermath of the defeat of significant Rajput rulers. It would then proceed to detail the reigns of the early Turkish dynasties, starting with Qutb-ud-din Aibak and the Mamluk (or Slave) Dynasty, highlighting Aibak’s initial contributions and the subsequent crucial rule of Iltutmish. Iltutmish’s efforts in consolidating the nascent Sultanate, strategically addressing Mongol threats, and implementing key administrative reforms would likely be discussed. The unique and challenging reign of Razia Sultan, the first female ruler, and the obstacles she faced from the powerful Turkish nobility would also probably feature prominently.
The chapter would then likely move on to the Khilji Dynasty, with a significant focus on the ambitious rule of Alauddin Khilji. His extensive territorial conquests, his radical administrative and economic reforms, including market regulations and land revenue policies, and his strategies for defending against Mongol invasions would likely be key points. Following the Khiljis, the Tughlaq Dynasty would be examined, potentially covering the contrasting approaches of its main rulers: Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the founder; the intellectually inclined but often controversial Muhammad bin Tughlaq, known for his ambitious projects like the shifting of the capital and the introduction of token currency; and Firoz Shah Tughlaq, whose reign saw significant public welfare measures and infrastructure development, alongside the emergence of factors contributing to the Sultanate’s eventual decline.
Finally, the chapter would likely address the multifaceted reasons for the decline and eventual disintegration of the Delhi Sultanate, including the weakening of central authority, internal rebellions by nobles and governors, the persistent threat of Mongol invasions, and the gradual rise of independent regional kingdoms. Furthermore, it might touch upon the administrative structure under the Sultanate, including the roles of the central and provincial governments, the revenue collection system, and the organization of the army. The chapter could also provide insights into the society, culture, and architecture that developed during the Sultanate period, highlighting the fusion of Indian and Islamic traditions and showcasing notable architectural achievements like the Qutub Minar and the Alai Darwaza.
Time To Learn
I. Fill in the blanks:
1. ________________ was the real founder of the Slave Dynasty.
Ans: Qutab-ud-din Aibak
2. _______ was nominated by Iltutmish as his successor.
Ans: Razia
3. Balban’s theory of kingship was _______ .
Ans: divine.
4. __________________ was the first Khalji ruler.
Ans: Jalal-ud-din Khalji
5. Malik Kafur led many campaigns in ___________ and every time he brought a huge booty of gold, jewels, elephants and horses.
Ans: North India
6. ________________ was a well-known poet in the court of Ala- ud-din Khalji.
Ans: Amir Khusrau
7. Ala-ud-din constructed a big tank called ______________ .
Ans: Hauz khas.
8. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq shifted his capital from _________ to ___________.
Ans: Delhi to Devagiri.
9. _______________ invaded India in AD 1398.
Ans: Amir Timur
10. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq introduced ___________ coins in place of gold and silver coins.
Ans: copper
II. Match Column A with Column B:
Answer:
III. State weather the following statements are True Or False:
- Qutub-ud-din Aibak built the Qutab Minar of Delhi.
True
- Balban believed in absolute monarchy.
True.
- Malik Kafur was also known as Hazar Dinari because he was bought for a thousand dinars.
True.
- Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq is known as a ‘mixture of opposites’.
True.
- Firoz Shah Tughlaq was Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s son.
False.
Firoz Shah Tughlaq was Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s cousin.
- Sikandar Lodi lost control over the Gangetic Valley.
False.
Ibrahim Lodi lost control over the Gangetic Valley.
- Khizr Khan was the founder of Sayyid dynasty.
False.
Khizr Khan was the deputy of Sayyid dynasty.
IV. Answer the following questions briefly:
Question 1.
What were the difficulties that Iltutmish had to face and how did he tackle them?
Ans:
Iltutmish faced rivals, disloyal governors, resurgent Rajputs, the Mongol threat, and a lack of legitimacy. He tackled these by:
- Military victories against rivals.
- Strategic diplomacy to avoid Mongols.
- Gaining legitimacy from the Caliph.
- Implementing administrative and military reforms (Iqta, Chahalgani, coinage).
- Developing infrastructure and shifting the capital to Delhi.
Question 2.
Write in brief about the rise and fall of Razia Sultan.
Ans:
Razia Sultan: Concise Ascent and Demise
Ascent: Contrary to convention, Iltutmish designated his competent daughter Razia as his heir. Despite initial noble opposition favoring her less capable brother, his ineffective rule led to his ouster. In 1236, Razia, backed by popular sentiment, ascended as Sultan. She defied tradition by abandoning the veil, adopting male attire, and valuing merit in appointments, which incited the Turkish nobility.
Demise: Razia’s attempts to centralize power and her preference for non-Turkish officials, particularly Yaqut, bred animosity among the Turkish elite. Plots and uprisings eroded her authority. Captured during a rebellion in 1240, she married the insurgent leader Altunia.
Question 3.
Who was Balban? What step»did he take to consolidate the Sultanate?
Ans:
Balban, a powerful Sultan of Delhi, consolidated his rule through a firm assertion of royal authority, even claiming divine right. He systematically dismantled the power of the influential “Forty” nobles. A reorganized and strengthened army, coupled with an efficient spy network, ensured control. Strict justice was administered impartially, and rebellions were ruthlessly suppressed. He fortified the borders against Mongol threats and maintained a grand court to enhance the Sultan’s prestige, largely favoring Turkish nobles in key appointments.
Question 4.
Who was the greatest of the two — Iltutmish or Balban? Give reason for your answer.
Ans:
Iltutmish was greater. He was the true founder and consolidator of the Delhi Sultanate, overcoming initial chaos, skillfully avoiding Mongol devastation, gaining crucial legitimacy, and establishing vital administrative and economic systems. Balban, while important for restoring order later, built upon the foundations laid by Iltutmish.
Question 5.
Discuss briefly Ala-ud-din’s conquest of the North.
Ans:
Ala-ud-din Khilji aggressively expanded the Delhi Sultanate in North India through several key conquests driven by imperial ambition and resource acquisition. He secured Gujarat for its wealth and trade access. The strategic Rajput forts of Ranthambore and Chittor were captured after significant sieges, consolidating control over Rajasthan. Malwa’s annexation extended his central Indian influence, and the later conquests of Siwana and Jalore further solidified Rajput territories under his rule. These brutal campaigns, led by capable generals, significantly increased the Sultanate’s power and wealth while diminishing Rajput dominance in the north.
Question 6.
What was the system of chehra and dagh introduced by Ala-ud-din Khalji?
Ans:
Ala-ud-din Khalji’s military reforms included Chehra, a system of detailed individual soldier descriptions to eliminate fraudulent musters and maintain accurate troop counts. He also implemented Dagh, the branding of royal horses, to prevent the exchange of superior steeds for inferior ones. These interconnected measures aimed to enhance the army’s effectiveness and reduce corruption within its ranks.
Question 7.
What was the consequence of Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s project of shifting his capital?
Ans:
The project of shifting the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad under Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq resulted in significant negative consequences. The forced relocation of a large segment of the population led to immense suffering and loss of life due to the arduous journey and harsh conditions. Economically, the move disrupted the established trade and commerce of Delhi, while the creation of a new capital placed a heavy burden on the royal treasury. Administratively, governing the vast empire from the geographically less central Daulatabad proved challenging, particularly in maintaining control over the northern territories. The policy was deeply unpopular, fostering resentment among the people of Delhi, which was exacerbated by the subsequent order to return. Ultimately, the intended benefits of the shift, such as better administration of the Deccan and increased security from Mongol incursions, were not realized. This ill-fated venture significantly damaged the Sultan’s reputation and eroded trust in his leadership, contributing to a period of instability within the Delhi Sultanate.
Question 8.
Who was Timur? When did he invade India?
Ans:
Timur (Tamerlane), the Turco-Mongol founder of the expansive Timurid Empire in Central Asia, was a renowned military leader. He initiated his invasion of India in 1398 AD.
Question 9.
Why is Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq called an ill-starred idealist?
Ans:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq earned the label “ill-starred idealist” due to his possession of grand and original schemes (such as the capital relocation and the introduction of symbolic currency) that held the potential for significant progress. Nevertheless, flawed implementation and unfortunate circumstances resulted in their collapse, leading to widespread hardship and a decline in his authority. His well-meaning intentions were ultimately eclipsed by the calamitous results of his policies.
V. Give Reason why:
Question 1.
Mahmud of Ghazni attacked India.
Ans:
Mahmud of Ghazni launched numerous raids into India (around 17) between 1000 and 1027 AD primarily to plunder its vast wealth, especially from temples, and to finance his empire in Central Asia. While he didn’t aim to establish permanent rule, his repeated invasions weakened Indian kingdoms, exposed their disunity, and facilitated future Turkic conquests. His actions also led to economic drain and some cultural impact, including the destruction of temples alongside a limited exchange of knowledge.
Question 2.
Turks succeeded against Rajputs
Ans:
The Turks succeeded against the Rajputs due to:
- Political disunity among Rajput kingdoms.
- Superior Turkish military tactics, especially their cavalry and mounted archers.
- Rajput reliance on outdated tactics and less mobile forces.
- Centralized Turkish command versus often fragmented Rajput armies.
- Sometimes, ideological motivation among the Turks.
Question 3.
Nobles rebelled against Razia.
Ans:
Yes, nobles rebelled against Razia Sultan primarily due to gender prejudice, their resentment of her authority, her appointment of non-Turks (like Yaqut), her public appearance without the veil, and their fear of her centralizing power. These rebellions ultimately led to her downfall.
Question 4.
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s toktn currency failed.
Ans:
Yes, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq’s token currency failed due to lack of public trust, easy counterfeiting, hoarding of real silver, government’s inability to control minting, refusal by traders, and the costly withdrawal that drained the treasury.
VI. Picture study:
This is a picture of the remains Daulatabad Fort.
Question 1.
Name the ruler who built it.
Ans:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq.
Question 2.
Write the two reasons behind the transfer of capital from Delhi to Daulatabad.
Ans:
Enhanced Centrality: Daulatabad (formerly Devagiri) was viewed as occupying a more geographically central position within the expansive Delhi Sultanate, which had grown considerably into the Deccan region. The Sultan reasoned that a central capital would streamline governance and oversight of both the northern and southern domains of his empire.
Increased Security from Mongol Threats: Delhi’s northwestern location made it a frequent target for Mongol invasions. Daulatabad, situated further to the south, was deemed to offer a more secure capital, being significantly removed from the immediate danger posed by the Mongol forces.
Question 3.
What were the results of the transfer of capital?
Ans:
The relocation of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad led to considerable suffering and mortality among the populace forced to migrate, economic decline in the once-thriving Delhi, challenges in administering the northern regions effectively, extensive public dissatisfaction, non-achievement of the anticipated advantages, and a diminished public perception of the Sultan’s competence.
I. Time To Do
- Crossword:
Down
- Founder of Slave Dynasty
- Leader of Mongols Across
- Daughter of Iltutmish
- Group of Turkish nobles called
Ans:
Additional Questions
(The Delhi Sultanate)
A. Fill in the blanks:
1. The founder of the Khilji dynasty was __________________ .
Ans: Jalaluddin – Khilji.
2. Alauddin was a brilliant _____________ and a shrewd _____________ .
Ans: general , administrator.
3. Alauddin was the first Turkish ruler to build an ___________ in India.
Ans: empire
4. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq was an ____________ administrator and a _________ military commander.
Ans: efficient , capable
5. Muhammad bin Tughlaq realized the importance of a strong and powerful __________ to strengthen and secure the position of the ________ . He needed additional ____________ to increase military resources.
Ans: army , ruler , revenue
6. Firoze Shah’s economic reforms improved _________________________ and made the peasants ____________ and __________ .
Ans: agricultural production , prosperous and happy.
7. Alauddin built a strong defence system to protect his empire from ________ raids.
Ans: Mongol
8. Iltutmish defeated the Rajput rulers of _________ , __________ , _______ , and ________ and brought the whole of North India upto the _________________ under his control.
Ans: Ujjain, Ranthambore, Malwa, and Gwalior , river Narmada
9. The _____________ of ___________ recognized Iltutmish as the sovereign of India. He was succeeded by ________________.
Ans: Caliph of Baghdad , his daughter Razia.
B. Match the following:
Answer:
C. State weather the following statements are True Or False:
- Alauddin conquered Chittor, the capital of Mewar/ Malwa/Warangal.
Ans.
Alauddin conquered Chittor, the capital of Mewar.
- Alauddin was the first Turkish ruler to send an expedition to Gujarat/Rajasthan/the Deccan.
Ans.
Alauddin was the first Turkish ruler to send an expedition to the Deccan.
- Most historians have traced the failure of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s schemes to his character/education/ intelligence.
Ans.
Most historians have traced the failure of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s schemes to his character.
- Firoze Shah laid out about 1,200 gardens and orchards/ lakes/roads around Delhi
Ans.
Firoze Shah laid out about 1,200 gardens and orchards around Delhi.
- The final blow to the Delhi Sultanate was dealt by the invasion of Babur/Timur/Khizr Khan.
Ans.
The final blow to the Delhi Sultanate was dealt by the invasion of Timur.
D. State whether the following are true or false:
- Alauddin dreamt of conquering the whole world.
True.
- Under Alauddin, spies were kept in every unit of the army.
True.
- Alauddin’s death was followed by great political turmoil.
True.
- Muhammad bin Tughlaq was a diligent ruler who undertook projects that were brilliantly conceived and executed.
False.
Correct: Muhammad bin Tughlaq was a diligent ruler who undertook projects that were brilliantly conceived–and poorly executed. - Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s of increasing the taxes in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab region led to the development of agriculture in that region.
False.
Correct: The policy of increasing the taxes in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab region led to the severe set back of agriculture in that region.
- Muhammad bin Tughlaq stayed in Daulatabad for 5 years.
False.
Correct: Muhammad bin Tughlaq stayed in Daulatabad for 2 years.
E. Answer the following questions in one or two words/ sentences:
1. Under what circumstances did Alauddin ascend the throne of Delhi?
Ans.
Alauddin Khilji, nephew and son-in-law of Sultan Jalaluddin Khilji, rose to power through ambition and military success, notably his wealthy raid on Devagiri. Feeling underappreciated, he plotted against his uncle, inviting him to Kara in 1296 under false pretenses and assassinating him. Alauddin then seized the throne in Delhi, consolidating his rule by eliminating rivals.
2. How did Alauddin Khilji win over the rebellious nobles after capturing the throne?
Ans.
Alauddin Khilji won over the nobles to his side by bribing them with rich gifts.
3. Name the capital of Mewar.
Ans.
Chittor the capital of Mewar.
4. What did the Rajput women in the royal palace do when Alauddin Khilji captured Chittor?
Ans.
The women performed jauhar and burnt themselves to death.
5. Who led Alauddin’s Deccan campaigns?
Ans.
The Deccan expeditions were led by Malik Kafur.
6.Why do modern historians reject the account of a mass exodus from Delhi to Daulatabad?
Ans.
- Archaeological findings indicate ongoing settlement in Delhi during that era.
- Coin production persisted in Delhi, suggesting its continued significance.
- Conflicting historical narratives, such as Ibn Battuta’s observations, imply a partial relocation.
- The sheer logistical impracticality of moving an entire major city.
- The Sultan’s later decision to return to Delhi signifies its enduring importance.
- Evidence suggests the relocation primarily involved the ruling class and officials, not the entire populace.
7. Mention any one economic reform introduced in the Doab region by Firozc Shah Tughlaq.
Ans.
Land taxes were reduced in the Doab. All loans given during the famine were cancelled. Many taxes were abolished.
8. Give one example to show that Firoze Shah was concerned about the welfare of his poor subjects.
Ans.
Free hospitals were set up for the poor.
F. Answer the following questions briefly:
Question 1.
With reference to the following conquests, briefly explain how Alauddin extended the boundaries of the – Delhi Sultanate: (a) Conquest of Gujarat (b) Conquest of the Rajput states.
Ans:
(a) Gujarat: Alauddin’s conquest secured its wealthy trade and ports, adding a valuable western coastal region to the Sultanate.
(b) Rajput States: Victories over Ranthambore, Chittor, and other Rajput kingdoms broke their power, secured strategic forts, and significantly expanded the Sultanate’s control across North India.
Question 2.
Give an account of Alauddin Khilji’s (a) Deccan conquest and (b) Deccan policy.
Ans:
(a) Deccan Conquest: Alauddin, through Malik Kafur, raided and defeated Deccan kingdoms (Devagiri, Warangal, Dwarasamudra, Madurai) primarily to plunder vast wealth.
(b) Deccan Policy: He established these kingdoms as tributaries, extracting annual payments and acknowledging his supremacy, rather than directly annexing them initially. His aim was economic exploitation and strategic influence without the burden of direct administration.
Question 3.
How did Alauddin protect the Delhi Sultanate from repeated Mongol invasions?
Ans:
Alauddin protected Delhi from Mongols by building a large standing army, fortifying the northwest frontier, appointing skilled commanders, using effective tactics, maintaining an intelligence network, implementing economic reforms to fund the military, and ruthlessly punishing captured Mongols.
Question 4.
Why is Muhammad bin Tughlaq regarded as one of the most accomplished and learned scholars of his times?
Ans:
Muhammad bin Tughlaq was a remarkably learned ruler, possessing deep knowledge in theology, philosophy, logic, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Fluent in Persian, Arabic, and even Sanskrit, he actively engaged in intellectual discussions with scholars from diverse backgrounds, making his court a center of learning. He patronized the arts and sciences and displayed an innovative spirit, albeit one that often led to unsuccessful projects. His exceptional memory and sharp intellect further solidified his reputation as one of the most accomplished scholars of his time, distinguishing him beyond his role as a Sultan.
Question 5.
Discuss the causes and results of the taxation scheme of Muhammad bin Tughlaq in the Doab.
Ans:
Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s imposition of increased taxes in the fertile Doab region was primarily motivated by the need to refill the state coffers, which had been drained by his ambitious endeavors, and to sustain his substantial military forces, capitalizing on the area’s perceived agricultural wealth. However, this significant tax hike unfortunately aligned with a severe famine, creating an insupportable burden for the agricultural community. Consequently, widespread destitution, the abandonment of farmlands, and significant agrarian revolts ensued as farmers found themselves incapable of meeting the excessive financial demands.
The ramifications of this taxation policy were predominantly adverse, leading to a reduction in agricultural output due to the distress and displacement of the farming population. Although the Sultan eventually introduced measures for relief, these were often belated and inadequate to effectively alleviate the widespread suffering and economic instability. In the end, the taxation scheme in the Doab failed to achieve its revenue objectives, instead underscoring the Sultan’s miscalculation and further tarnishing his image due to its ruinous consequences for the common people and the agricultural sector.
Question 6.
Why was the capital transferred from Delhi to Daulatabad? Explain the consequences of this project.
Ans:
The capital shifted from Delhi to Daulatabad for a central location and safety from Mongols. Consequences were hardship and death, economic disruption, administrative issues, widespread resentment, failure of objectives, and damage to the Sultan’s reputation.
Question 7.
What arrangements did Muhammad bin Tughlaq make to achieve his ambition of a world empire? Why did his scheme fail?
Ans:
Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s ambition for a world empire centered on his Khurasan Expedition, for which he raised a massive army, attempted to forge alliances, and stockpiled supplies. However, the expedition failed primarily due to unforeseen political stability in Khurasan and Iraq, rendering his planned intervention obsolete. The premature payment of hefty salaries to the large army for a year drained the royal treasury without any military gains.
Furthermore, the Sultan’s unrealistic evaluation of the Central Asian political climate, coupled with the immense logistical challenges of sustaining such a force over long distances, contributed to the scheme’s downfall. Domestic issues within the Sultanate also diverted resources and attention. Ultimately, the disbanded army represented a significant waste of resources, highlighting the impracticality of his grand vision under the prevailing circumstances.
Question 8.
What was the condition of the Delhi Sultanate at the end of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign?
Ans:
The Delhi Sultanate at the conclusion of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s reign was marked by substantial decay. The state’s financial resources were severely exhausted due to a series of unsuccessful initiatives and damaging economic policies, while the farming and trade industries suffered under oppressive regulations and widespread civil unrest. Politically, the Sultanate had shrunk considerably, with southern territories declaring their independence and local potentates increasingly challenging the weakened central power.
Socially, a widespread feeling of discontent and hostility permeated the population, a direct result of the hardships imposed by the Sultan’s administration. This combination of depleted finances, loss of territory, political instability, and widespread public dissatisfaction left the Delhi Sultanate in a fragile and weakened position.
Question 9.
To what would you attribute the failure of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s schemes – personal character or prevailing conditions? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans:
The failure of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s ambitious schemes stemmed more from his personal character than solely from the prevailing conditions. While governing a vast and diverse empire with economic constraints and external threats posed inherent difficulties, the Sultan’s impatience, lack of pragmatism, and authoritarian decision-making significantly exacerbated these challenges. His tendency to rush into poorly planned projects, like the token currency, and his failure to adequately consult or consider the practical implications of his policies, such as the capital transfer, consistently undermined their potential success.
Furthermore, his inconsistent and often harsh policies, exemplified by the Doab taxation during a famine, eroded public trust and fueled widespread resentment. Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s overestimation of his own abilities and flawed implementation of even well-intentioned ideas proved to be critical weaknesses. While factors like social resistance and natural calamities played a role, it was his personal approach to governance – marked by impulsiveness, a lack of foresight, and an inability to adapt to ground realities – that ultimately led to the disastrous outcomes of his various schemes.
In essence, the prevailing conditions provided the backdrop, but Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s personal character flaws, characterized by a blend of intellectual brilliance and administrative ineptitude, were the primary drivers behind the widespread failure of his innovative yet ill-fated policies. His ambitious visions were consistently derailed by his own shortcomings in execution and his disconnect from the practical realities of his Sultanate.
Question 10.
What evidence do we have to prove that Alauddin was a patron of art and learning?
Ans:
Evidence suggests Alauddin Khilji was a patron of art and learning primarily through his association with prominent literary figures. The celebrated poet Amir Khusrau served extensively in his court, producing significant literary works under his patronage. The presence of other poets like Mir Hasan Dehlvi further indicates Alauddin’s support for intellectual talent and the flourishing of Persian literature during his reign. This cultivation of literary figures highlights a cultural dimension to his rule beyond mere political and military concerns.
Furthermore, Alauddin’s architectural achievements serve as tangible proof of his patronage of the arts and skilled craftsmanship. The magnificent Alai Darwaza, with its intricate Indo-Islamic design, showcases the architectural advancements under his rule. His establishment of Siri Fort, including the ambitious “Palace of Thousand Pillars,” and the construction of the extensive Hauz-i-Khas demonstrate his investment in urban development and public works that indirectly supported the cultural life of Delhi.
Finally, his expansion of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque and the establishment of a madrasa near his tomb point towards his attention to religious architecture and the promotion of learning. While his primary focus was on statecraft and military strength, Alauddin’s support for poets, scholars, and grand architectural projects undeniably positions him as a significant patron of art and learning in the history of the Delhi Sultanate.
G Picture study:
This is a picture of the most beautiful specimen of Khilji architecture, which was added as an entrance to the Qutb complex in Delhi.
Question 1.
Identify the monument.
Ans:
Alai Darwaja.
Question 2.
During whose reign was it built?
Ans:
Alauddin Khilji.
Question 3.
With reference to the reign of this ruler, mention two important features of each of the following:
(a) Reorganization of the army
(b) Revenue reforms
(c) Market control policy
Ans:
- Alauddin’s Military Restructuring: A key feature was the creation of a substantial, standing army that received direct payment in cash, fostering greater loyalty and immediate availability. To enhance the army’s effectiveness and curb corruption, he introduced the dagh system for identifying horses and the chehra system for detailed soldier identification, leading to a more transparent and efficient military organization.
- Alauddin’s Fiscal Overhaul: His revenue reforms involved a meticulous land survey to determine and fix the state’s share of agricultural output at a significant 50%. By prioritizing direct collection of revenue through state-appointed officials and aiming to diminish the power of local intermediaries, these measures were designed to maximize the state’s income and strengthen central control over land resources.
- Alauddin’s Market Regulation: To ensure affordable access to essential goods, especially for his large army and the residents of Delhi, Alauddin implemented fixed prices across all necessary commodities. Distinct, regulated markets were established for various goods, supervised by state officials who rigorously enforced regulations concerning pricing, weights, and measures, with strict punishments for offenses such as hoarding or price gouging. This extensive system aimed to stabilize the economy and prevent unfair practices.
