Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Consider the following statement connected with Alauddin Khalji: 1. He collected revenue by measuring the cultivated land. 2. He enforced revenue measures in his entire empire. 3. He abolished the powers of provincial Governors. Select the correct answer from the coding scheme given below:
Solution & Analysis
Answer: C
Concept
Alauddin Khalji revolutionized the fiscal state to support a massive army. His reforms aimed to maximize central revenue by eliminating local intermediaries and applying scientific measurement to land.Explanation
Alauddin was the first Sultan to insist that revenue be collected based on measurement of the land (Biswa). He cancelled revenue assignments (Iqtas) and suppressed the local Hindu chiefs (Khuts and Muqaddams).Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Statement 1 is correct. Measurement provided a more accurate basis for taxing produce (Kharaj).
Logic 2: Statement 2 is incorrect. These reforms were primarily concentrated in the Doab and northern regions, not the 'entire' empire (the South remained tributary).
Logic 3: Statement 3 is correct. He centralized power and severely curtailed the administrative and financial autonomy of his provincial officials.