Explanation: Muhammad-bin Tughluq, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1325 to 1351, made several significant administrative decisions during his reign. One of the most notable was the decision to shift the capital from Delhi to Devagiri (modern-day Daulatabad). This move was part of his broader strategy to consolidate his control over the Deccan region and improve the administration of the empire.
The Delhi Sultanate, which was established in the early 13th century, had its capital in Delhi. However, as the empire expanded, Muhammad-bin Tughluq recognized the need to centralize his control over the Deccan region, which was crucial for the empire's stability and economic prosperity. Devagiri, located in the Deccan region, was chosen as the new capital due to its strategic location and its importance as a center of trade and commerce.
The shift of the capital to Devagiri was a significant administrative decision that had both positive and negative consequences. On the positive side, it allowed Muhammad-bin Tughluq to better control the Deccan region and improve the administration of the empire. However, the move also faced several challenges. The distance between Delhi and Devagiri was considerable, and the logistics of moving the entire administrative apparatus and the royal court were complex and costly. Additionally, the new capital was not as well-equipped as Delhi in terms of infrastructure and resources, leading to difficulties in maintaining the new capital.
Despite these challenges, the shift to Devagiri was a strategic move aimed at consolidating the empire's control over the Deccan region. It reflects the broader administrative and strategic decisions made by Muhammad-bin Tughluq to strengthen and expand the Delhi Sultanate.
In summary, Muhammad-bin Tughluq shifted the capital of his empire from Delhi to Devagiri (modern-day Daulatabad) to consolidate his control over the Deccan region and improve the administration of the empire. This decision, while ambitious, faced significant logistical and administrative challenges but was a key part of his broader strategy to strengthen the Delhi Sultanate.