📚 Part of: Delhi Sultanate And Mughal Empire Mcqs: Historical Context And Administrative Reforms

..... administration became the model followed by Akbar the Great, when he consolidated the Mughal empire

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Correct Answer: D) Sher Shah Suri.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, IAS Prelims, SSC CGL, State PSC Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

Sher Shah Suri, a ruler of the Sur dynasty, implemented significant administrative reforms during his short reign (1540-1545). These reforms were so effective that they served as a model for Akbar the Great, who later consolidated the Mughal Empire. The reforms included the establishment of a centralized administration, a well-organized revenue system, and the construction of infrastructure like roads and rest houses.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing Sher Shah Suri with other rulers of the Delhi Sultanate or Mughal Empire.
  • Overlooking the specific administrative reforms implemented by Sher Shah Suri.
  • Not recognizing the influence of Sher Shah Suri's reforms on Akbar's administration.
Explanation:

Sher Shah Suri, who ruled from 1540 to 1545, was a significant figure in the history of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire. His reign was marked by a series of administrative reforms that were so effective and well-organized that they became a model for future rulers, particularly Akbar the Great, who consolidated the Mughal Empire.

Sher Shah Suri's administrative reforms were comprehensive and included several key areas:

1. **Centralized Administration**: He established a centralized administrative system with a clear hierarchy of officials. This system was designed to ensure efficient governance and effective communication between the central government and the provinces.

2. **Revenue System**: Sher Shah Suri reformed the revenue system by introducing a new land survey and assessment system. This system, known as the Todar Mal system, was later adopted and further refined by Akbar. It involved a detailed survey of land and a fair assessment of revenue based on the quality of the land and the crops grown.

3. **Infrastructure Development**: He initiated the construction of roads, rest houses (sarais), and bridges to improve communication and trade. These infrastructural developments facilitated the movement of goods and people, enhancing economic activities and governance.

4. **Military Reforms**: Sher Shah Suri also reformed the military by organizing it into a well-disciplined force. He introduced a system of regular pay and pensions for soldiers, which improved their loyalty and effectiveness.

These reforms were so effective that they provided a solid foundation for the Mughal Empire's administration under Akbar. Akbar, recognizing the effectiveness of Sher Shah Suri's system, adopted and further developed these reforms to consolidate and strengthen the Mughal Empire. Akbar's administrative system, known as the Mansabdari system, was built upon the principles established by Sher Shah Suri, making his reforms a crucial part of the historical context of the Mughal Empire.

In conclusion, Sher Shah Suri's administrative reforms were highly influential and served as a model for Akbar the Great, who used them as a foundation to consolidate the Mughal Empire. The effectiveness and comprehensiveness of these reforms made them a significant part of Indian history and a key topic in the study of the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Alauddin Khalji was a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate known for his military conquests and economic reforms, but his administrative model was not directly followed by Akbar. Alauddin Khalji's policies were more focused on military control and revenue extraction, which were not as comprehensive as Sher Shah Suri's reforms.
  • Option B: Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire, was more focused on establishing his rule and consolidating his power through military campaigns. His administrative system was not as developed or influential as Sher Shah Suri's, which provided a more structured and efficient model for Akbar to follow.
  • Option C: Muhammad bin Tughlaq was a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate known for his ambitious but often unsuccessful reforms. His policies were often criticized for their impracticality and lack of implementation, making his administrative model less influential compared to Sher Shah Suri's well-organized and effective reforms.
  • Option D: Sher Shah Suri's administrative reforms were highly influential and served as a model for Akbar the Great. His reforms included the establishment of a centralized administration, a well-organized revenue system, and the construction of infrastructure like roads and rest houses. These reforms were so effective that they provided a solid foundation for the Mughal Empire's administration under Akbar.

Mnemonic: S-S-S: Sher Shah Suri's System

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