HISDSM251 Unit 2: Administration and Transformation of the Delhi Sultanate

This unit focuses on the transition of the Sultanate into a highly centralized and innovative state [cite: 1723-1727]. We analyze the radical market reforms of the Khaljis, the controversial experimental projects of the Tughluqs, and the systemic factors that led to the eventual collapse of the Delhi Sultanate.

1. Alauddin Khalji's Economic and Market Policies

Alauddin Khalji was the first Sultan to significantly intervene in the economy to maintain a large standing army.

Market Control Regulations

• Price Fixation: He strictly fixed the prices of all essential commodities, from food grains to cloth and even slaves.
• Separate Markets: Three distinct markets were established in Delhi: one for grains, one for costly cloth/sugar/oil, and one for horses/cattle/slaves.
• Administrative Officers: Each market was under a high officer called the Shahna-i-Mandi, who ensured no cheating occurred.
• Intelligence System: Spies known as Munhiyans reported daily price fluctuations directly to the Sultan.

Land Revenue Reforms

• Direct Collection: He abolished intermediary local chiefs (Khuts and Muqaddams) to collect revenue directly from peasants.
• Measurement System: Revenue was based on the measurement of land (Biswa), ensuring a more scientific tax base.
• State Share: The state demand was raised to 50% of the produce to fund his military expansion.

2. Muhammad-bin-Tughluq's Administrative Schemes

Known for his intellectual brilliance but practical failures, Muhammad-bin-Tughluq launched several ambitious projects.

Major Experimental Projects

• Transfer of Capital (1327): He moved the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad (Devagiri) to better control South India. The forced migration of the entire population led to immense suffering and the project was eventually abandoned.
• Token Currency: He introduced bronze/copper coins to be treated at par with silver coins. Due to widespread counterfeiting and lack of state control over minting, the economy was severely disrupted.
• Taxation in the Doab: Increased taxes in the fertile Doab region coincided with a severe famine, leading to peasant revolts.
• Khurasan and Qarachil Expeditions: These massive military mobilizations ended in failure and depleted the state treasury.

3. Administrative Structure of the Delhi Sultanate

The Sultanate administration was a blend of Perso-Arabic traditions and Indian realities.

Central Administration

• The Sultan: He was the head of the state, the commander-in-chief, and the chief justice.
• Wazir (Diwan-i-Wizarat): The Prime Minister in charge of revenue and finance.
• Ariz-i-Mamalik (Diwan-i-Arz): The minister responsible for the military department, including recruitment and inspection.
• Diwan-i-Insha: Handled state correspondence and royal decrees.

Provincial and Local Setup

The empire was divided into Shis (provinces) governed by Muqtis or Walis, who were responsible for law, order, and revenue collection. These were further subdivided into Parganas (groups of villages).

4. Causes of the Downfall of the Delhi Sultanate

The decline of the Sultanate was a gradual process caused by several internal and external factors.