Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 272

Who was the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Correct Answer: A) Sultan

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

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

During the Sultanate period in India, which spanned from the early 13th century to the mid-16th century, the Sultan was the supreme authority and held the position of the commander-in-chief of the army. The Sultanate period refers to the rule of various Muslim dynasties in India, including the Delhi Sultanate and other regional sultanates.

The Sultan was the highest authority in the state and had complete control over the military. This centralized power structure was crucial for maintaining control over the vast territories and managing the diverse populations under the Sultanate's rule. The Sultan's role as the commander-in-chief was essential for defending the state's borders, conducting military campaigns, and maintaining internal order.

Other important officials in the Sultanate administration included the Diwan, who was responsible for finance and revenue, and the Chief Qazi, who oversaw religious and judicial matters. However, these officials did not have military command. The Diwan managed the state's finances and revenue collection, while the Chief Qazi was responsible for religious and legal matters.

Understanding the roles and responsibilities of different officials during the Sultanate period is crucial for comprehending the administrative structure and the centralization of power under the Sultan. The Sultan's position as the commander-in-chief of the army was a key aspect of this centralized authority, ensuring that military affairs were directly under the Sultan's control.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The Sultan was the supreme authority and held the position of the commander-in-chief of the army during the Sultanate period. This centralized power structure ensured that the Sultan had control over military affairs.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Shahna i mandi is not a recognized title or position during the Sultanate period. It is likely a misinterpretation or confusion with other titles.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The Chief Qazi was the head of the religious and judicial system, not the military. The Chief Qazi was responsible for overseeing religious and legal matters, not military command.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The Diwan was the minister responsible for finance and revenue, not military command. The Diwan managed the state's finances and revenue collection, but the military was under the direct control of the Sultan.

Mnemonic: Sultan = Supreme Leader

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