Explanations:The Iqta system was a significant administrative and military practice during the reign of the Khalji and Tughluq dynasties in medieval India. The term "Iqta" refers to a land grant given to military commanders as a reward for their service. These grants were not only a form of compensation but also a means to ensure loyalty and effective governance of the territories.
Under the Iqta system, the military commanders, known as Iqtadars, were appointed as governors of specific territories. These territories could vary in size and were often strategically important regions. The Iqtadars were responsible for collecting taxes and maintaining law and order within their assigned territories. In return, they were allowed to keep a portion of the revenue collected, which served as their salary and a means to support their military forces.
The Iqta system was a practical solution to the challenges of governing a vast and diverse empire. It allowed the central government to maintain control over distant territories by delegating authority to trusted military commanders. This system was particularly effective during times of expansion and consolidation, as it provided a way to reward military service and ensure the loyalty of the commanders.
It is important to distinguish the Iqta system from other administrative divisions used in medieval India. For example, the term "Doab" refers to a region between two rivers, typically used in geographical contexts. "Kshetra" is a term from Hinduism, referring to a sacred place or region, and is not related to the administrative divisions of the Khalji and Tughluq dynasties. The term "Region" is a general term for any area or territory and does not specifically refer to the land grants used by these dynasties.
Understanding the Iqta system is crucial for comprehending the administrative and military practices of the Khalji and Tughluq dynasties. It provides insight into the methods used to govern and maintain control over vast territories during this period of Indian history.