Sambhav-2024

• Start the answer with a discussion that sets a context for the question.
• Evaluate the agricultural reforms implemented during the Delhi Sultanate.
• Evaluate the administrative reforms implemented during the Delhi Sultanate.
• Conclude suitably.

Introduction

The Delhi Sultanate era, spanning from the early 13^th to the late 14^th century, witnessed significant agricultural and administrative reforms that played a crucial role in shaping the socio-economic and political landscape of medieval India.

Body

Agricultural Reforms:

• Iqta System: Under this system, land was assigned to military officials (Iqtadars) in lieu of military service which helped in maintaining a large standing army.
  • However, these military reforms also contributed to political instability and factionalism.
• Market Control: To control the prices, Allaudin Khilji set up three different markets for different commodities in Delhi. These markets were: the grain market (Mandi), the cloth market (Sarai Adl), and the market for horses, slaves, cattle, etc.
  • This centralization of economic power was criticized for limiting private enterprise and stifling economic growth.
• Canal Construction: The construction of canals during the Delhi Sultanate led to an increase in cultivable land, contributing to higher agricultural productivity.
  • However, the benefits of canal irrigation were limited in influential regions.

Administrative Reforms:

• Centralized Governance: The Delhi Sultanate sought to centralize administrative authority to enhance governance efficiency.
  • However, the concentration of power resulted in bureaucratic corruption and a lack of accountability.
• Introduction of Copper Coins: Tughlaqs introduced a copper coin (Jittal) instead of a silver coin (tanka) and ordered that it be accepted as equivalent to the tanka.
  • However, the idea of token currency was difficult for traders and common people to accept.
• Introduction of Bureaucracy and Persian Language: The Khalji and Tughlaq dynasties included the use of Persian as the administrative language and the implementation of a centralized bureaucracy that was responsible for revenue collection, military affairs, public works, and religious endowments.
  • While this aimed to streamline governance, it created a cultural and linguistic divide between the ruling elite and the local populace.
• Legal System: The Sultans introduced a legal system based on Islamic law (Sharia) and customary practices. Qazis (judges) were appointed to adjudicate disputes and ensure justice.

Conclusion

The consequences of these reforms were uneven, contributing to both economic growth and agrarian discontent. The legacy of these reforms continued to influence subsequent rulers, shaping the trajectory of medieval Indian history.