Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 73

..... was the first ruler of delhi who made the foundation of permanent standing army

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the military reforms of the Delhi Sultanate rulers.

Correct Answer: C) Allaudin khilji.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, Bank PO

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The Delhi Sultanate was a series of Muslim dynasties that ruled large parts of the Indian subcontinent from the early 13th century to the early 16th century. One of the most significant rulers of the Delhi Sultanate was Allaudin Khilji, who reigned from 1296 to 1316. Allaudin Khilji is known for his military reforms, which included the establishment of a permanent standing army. This was a crucial development in the military organization of the Delhi Sultanate, as it marked a shift from the previous system of relying on temporary forces.

Before Allaudin Khilji, the Delhi Sultanate and other medieval states typically relied on temporary forces that were raised for specific campaigns and disbanded afterward. This system was less efficient and less reliable for maintaining control over a large and diverse empire. Allaudin Khilji's establishment of a standing army was a strategic move to ensure a constant and well-trained military force that could be used for both defensive and offensive purposes.

The standing army under Allaudin Khilji was composed of both cavalry and infantry, and it was organized into a hierarchical structure with clear lines of command. The soldiers were paid regular salaries, which helped to ensure their loyalty and discipline. This system of a standing army was a significant improvement in military organization and contributed to the expansion and consolidation of the Delhi Sultanate's power.

It is important to note that while other rulers of the Delhi Sultanate also made military reforms, Allaudin Khilji is specifically credited with the establishment of the first permanent standing army in Delhi. This reform had a lasting impact on the military organization of the Delhi Sultanate and influenced subsequent rulers and states in the region.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Malik Kafur was a general under Allaudin Khilji and participated in military campaigns, but he did not establish a standing army. This option is incorrect.
  • Option B: Ghazi Malik, later known as Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, was a later ruler who did not establish the standing army. This option is incorrect.
  • Option C: Allaudin Khilji established the first permanent standing army in Delhi, which was a significant military reform. This option is correct.
  • Option D: Jalaluddin Khilji was the founder of the Khilji dynasty but did not establish a standing army. This option is incorrect.

Mnemonic: A.K. Army: Allaudin Khilji established the Army.

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