Explanation: Alauddin Khalji, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1296 to 1316, was a significant figure in medieval Indian history, known for his military conquests and administrative reforms. His reign marked a period of expansion and consolidation of power for the Delhi Sultanate.
One of the most notable aspects of Alauddin Khalji's rule was his military campaigns, which were aimed at expanding the territory of the Delhi Sultanate. Among his conquests, the most significant were those of Gujarat and parts of Rajasthan.
**Conquest of Gujarat:**
Gujarat was a wealthy region with a strong economy, particularly due to its trade routes and ports. Alauddin Khalji's conquest of Gujarat was a strategic move to control these resources and to weaken the power of the local rulers. The conquest of Gujarat was completed in 1300, and it brought immense wealth to the Delhi Sultanate, which was used to strengthen the military and administrative structures of the kingdom.
**Conquest of Rajasthan:**
Rajasthan, particularly the kingdoms of Chittor and Ranthambhor, were powerful and wealthy regions that posed a threat to the Delhi Sultanate. Alauddin Khalji launched several campaigns to conquer these regions. The most famous of these was the siege of Chittor in 1303, which was a significant victory for Alauddin Khalji. The conquest of Rajasthan not only expanded the territory of the Delhi Sultanate but also brought under its control the rich resources and manpower of the region.
**Delhi:**
It is important to note that Delhi was already the capital of the Delhi Sultanate when Alauddin Khalji came to power. Therefore, it was not a conquest for him but rather the base from which he launched his military campaigns and ruled the Sultanate.
In summary, Alauddin Khalji's conquests of Gujarat and Rajasthan were crucial in expanding the Delhi Sultanate's territory and consolidating its power. These conquests were part of a broader strategy to control the wealth and resources of the regions, which were essential for the military and administrative strength of the Sultanate. The correct answer, therefore, is (D) Only (A) & (B), as these conquests were significant achievements of Alauddin Khalji's reign.