6. Short Answer Type Questions:
(a) Describe the division of a province in the Sultanate period.
(b) Why did the nobles oppose Raziya?
(c) Why did Muhammad-bin Tughluq decide to introduce bronze and copper coins?
(d) Narrate Ala-ud-din Khalji's tax collection system.
(e) Why was the first battle of Panipat fought?
Answer (2)
The Sultanate period witnessed administrative divisions where provinces, or 'Iqta', were managed by Muqtis. Raziya faced opposition from nobles due to her merit-based governance, while Muhammad-bin Tughluq introduced bronze coins to alleviate economic issues. Khalji's tax reforms improved collection efficiency, and the first battle of Panipat in 1526 was a decisive event that established Mughal authority in India.
;
(a) The division of a province in the Sultanate period: During the Sultanate period in India, the administrative structure was hierarchical. The empire was divided into several provinces called 'Iqta'. Each Iqta was controlled by an 'Iqtadar' or 'Muqta', who was a noble or a military officer. The Iqtadar was responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and managing the land. The provinces were further divided into smaller units, such as districts, and each district had its own local officials.
(b) Why did the nobles oppose Raziya?: Raziya Sultan, the only female ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, faced opposition from the nobles for several reasons. Firstly, she challenged the traditional gender roles of the time by taking on the title of Sultan, which many nobles were not willing to accept. Secondly, she made decisions that undermined the power of the nobles, like appointing non-Turks such as Jamal-ud-Din Yaqut as high-ranking officials, which threatened their influence.
(c) Why did Muhammad-bin Tughluq decide to introduce bronze and copper coins?: Muhammad-bin Tughluq introduced bronze and copper coins as part of his economic reforms to address a shortage of precious metals. By introducing token currency, he intended to enhance the monetary circulation and streamline transactions across the empire. However, the policy failed due to inadequate control over minting and forgery, which led to economic instability.
(d) Narrate Ala-ud-din Khalji's tax collection system: Ala-ud-din Khalji implemented a strong and efficient tax collection system aimed at maintaining resources for his military campaigns and the state. He introduced new taxes such as the 'kharaj' (land tax) and carefully measured the land to assess taxes. He also imposed taxes such as 'house tax' and 'cattle tax' to prevent accumulation of wealth, ensuring that resources were redirected to his state treasury. His tax system was considered rigorous but effective in maintaining a stable economy.
(e) Why was the first battle of Panipat fought?: The first battle of Panipat, fought on April 21, 1526, was a significant event in Indian history as it marked the beginning of the Mughal Empire. It took place between the forces of Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, and Ibrahim Lodi, the Sultan of Delhi. Babur's desire to establish control over northern India and Ibrahim Lodi's weakening hold over the Sultanate were key causes of the battle. Babur's use of advanced tactics and resourceful strategies led to his victory, paving the way for Mughal dominance in India.
