Who introduced iqtas to the nobles?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the administrative reforms of the Tughluq dynasty.

Correct Answer: D) Firoz shah Tughluq.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The iqtas were administrative divisions in the Delhi Sultanate, where the iqtadars (holders of iqtas) were responsible for collecting revenue and maintaining law and order. The system of iqtas was an important part of the administrative structure of the Delhi Sultanate, and it evolved over time with various rulers making changes to improve its efficiency.

Firoz Shah Tughluq, who ruled from 1351 to 1388, was a significant figure in the Tughluq dynasty and introduced several administrative reforms. One of his notable reforms was the reorganization of the iqtas system. He divided the empire into provinces and appointed governors to manage them. This was part of his broader efforts to centralize the administration and improve the efficiency of revenue collection and governance.

It is important to understand the context of the Delhi Sultanate and the various rulers who contributed to its administrative structure. The Tughluq dynasty, in particular, saw several rulers who made significant changes to the existing systems. Firoz Shah Tughluq's reforms were aimed at improving the efficiency of the iqtas system, which had been in use since earlier times but required modifications to adapt to the changing needs of the empire.

Other rulers, such as Mohammad bin Tughluq and Ala ud din Khalji, also made important contributions to the Delhi Sultanate, but they did not introduce the iqtas system. Mohammad bin Tughluq is known for his ambitious but often unsuccessful reforms, including the transfer of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad. Ala ud din Khalji, on the other hand, is known for his military campaigns and economic reforms, but the iqtas system was already in place during his reign.

Understanding the contributions of different rulers to the administrative structure of the Delhi Sultanate is crucial for comprehending the evolution of governance in medieval India. Firoz Shah Tughluq's reforms in the iqtas system were a significant part of this evolution and reflect the efforts to improve administrative efficiency during his reign.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Incorrect. Mohammad bin Tughluq was a ruler of the Tughluq dynasty, but he did not introduce the iqtas system. He is known for other reforms and policies, including the transfer of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad.
Option B: Incorrect. Ibrahim Lodi was the last ruler of the Lodi dynasty and did not introduce the iqtas system. He is known for his conflict with Babur, which led to the end of the Delhi Sultanate.
Option C: Incorrect. Ala ud din Khalji was a ruler of the Khalji dynasty and is known for his military campaigns and economic reforms, but he did not introduce the iqtas system. The iqtas were already in use during his reign.
Option D: Correct. Firoz Shah Tughluq introduced significant reforms in the iqtas system to improve administrative efficiency. He divided the empire into provinces and appointed governors to manage them, which was a part of his broader administrative reforms.

Mnemonic: Firoz's Fix: Firoz Shah Tughluq fixed the iqtas.

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