Why did Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq transfer his capital from Delhi to Devagiri?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the strategic importance of central control over the empire.

Correct Answer: D) To control the whole empire from the centre.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, who ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1325 to 1351, made several significant decisions during his reign, one of which was the relocation of his capital from Delhi to Devagiri (modern-day Daulatabad). This decision was primarily driven by the strategic need to control the entire empire from a central location.

The Delhi Sultanate, under Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq, was a vast empire that extended across much of the Indian subcontinent. The capital at Delhi was located in the northern part of the empire, which made it difficult to effectively govern the southern regions. By moving the capital to Devagiri, which is located in the Deccan region, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq aimed to centralize his control over the empire, making it easier to manage and govern the entire territory.

The strategic importance of central control cannot be overstated. By relocating the capital, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq intended to improve communication and administration across the empire. This move was expected to facilitate better coordination between the different regions, enhance the collection of taxes, and strengthen the Sultanate's military presence in the south. The central location of Devagiri was believed to provide a more balanced position from which to manage the empire's diverse regions.

While there were other factors that influenced this decision, such as the need to counter the Mongol threat and the desire to increase tax revenue, the primary motivation was the strategic advantage of central control. The relocation of the capital was a bold and ambitious move, reflecting Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's vision of a unified and centrally governed empire.

However, the move was not without its challenges. The relocation faced significant logistical and administrative difficulties, and it ultimately did not achieve the intended goals. Despite these challenges, the decision to move the capital to Devagiri remains a notable event in the history of the Delhi Sultanate, highlighting the strategic considerations that shaped the governance of medieval Indian empires.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is incorrect. While Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq did face issues with corrupt officials, the primary reason for the capital relocation was not to check corruption but to centralize control over the empire.
Option B: This option is incorrect. Although increasing tax revenue was a secondary consideration, the main reason for the relocation was not financial gain but strategic control over the empire.
Option C: This option is incorrect. The Mongol threat was a concern, but the primary reason for the relocation was not to escape the Mongols but to centralize control over the empire.
Option D: This option is correct. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq moved the capital to Devagiri to centralize control over the empire, making it easier to manage and govern the vast territories under his rule.

Mnemonic: C-C-C: Control, Central, Capital

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