Part of: Delhi Gk set 24

Who started a new department for slaves during his rule in Delhi?

Category: Delhi Gk

Hint: Consider the administrative reforms of the Tughlaq dynasty.

Correct Answer: A) Firoz shah tughlaq.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Civil Services, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Firoz Shah Tughlaq, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1351 to 1388, was a significant figure in the history of the Tughlaq dynasty. He is known for his numerous administrative reforms and his efforts to improve the welfare of his subjects, including slaves. One of his notable reforms was the establishment of a new department specifically for the management and care of slaves within the empire.

The Delhi Sultanate, which was a powerful Islamic empire in medieval India, had a complex social and administrative structure. Slaves played a significant role in the economy and administration of the empire. Firoz Shah Tughlaq recognized the importance of managing this population effectively and established a dedicated department to oversee their welfare and ensure their proper treatment.

This department was part of a broader set of reforms aimed at improving the governance and social conditions within the empire. Firoz Shah Tughlaq was known for his interest in public welfare and his efforts to implement policies that would benefit his subjects. The establishment of the slave department was one such initiative, reflecting his concern for the well-being of all members of society, including those in bondage.

It is important to note that while Firoz Shah Tughlaq made efforts to improve the conditions of slaves, the institution of slavery itself was deeply entrenched in the social and economic fabric of the Delhi Sultanate. The establishment of the slave department was a step towards better management and care, but it did not eliminate the practice of slavery.

Understanding the historical context and the specific contributions of Firoz Shah Tughlaq is crucial for comprehending the administrative and social reforms of the Delhi Sultanate. This knowledge is particularly relevant for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and State PSC, where questions on historical figures and their contributions are common.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Firoz Shah Tughlaq established a new department for slaves during his rule in Delhi. This department was part of his broader administrative reforms aimed at improving the welfare and management of slaves within the empire.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Iltutmish was a ruler of the Slave dynasty, not the Tughlaq dynasty. He is known for his contributions to the Delhi Sultanate but not for establishing a department for slaves.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Daulat Khan Lodi was a governor of Punjab and later a rival to the Tughlaq dynasty. He did not establish a department for slaves during his rule.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Muhammad bin Tughluq was a predecessor of Firoz Shah Tughlaq and is known for his controversial policies and administrative reforms, but not for establishing a department for slaves.

Mnemonic: Firoz for Freedom: Firoz Shah Tughlaq and his department for slaves.

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