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Jharkhand PCS Mains 2016

Mughal Military Innovations

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which Mughal emperor followed Ottoman system of war in India

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Babur’s military success in India was not just due to numbers, but superior tactical innovation borrowed from the Ottomans. This allowed his smaller force to crush the massive traditional armies of the Delhi Sultanate.

Explanation Babur successfully applied the Rumi method of warfare during the First Battle of Panipat in 1526. Traditionally used by the Ottomans, this method involved tying carts and cannons together to create a formidable barricade, providing a strong defense while his cavalry encircled the enemy.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The 'Rumi' (Turkish/Ottoman) method used trenches and cart-barricades as a shield for artillery, which was a technological shock to Indian forces.
Logic 2: By combining this with the Tulughma (flanking) strategy, Babur was able to surround Ibrahim Lodi’s army from two sides while staying protected behind his barricades.

Active Recall

Question

What was the 'Araba' or Rumi system?

Answer

It was a defensive tactic where bullock carts were tied together with leather ropes to shield the musketeers and cannons from cavalry charges.

Core Insight

Babur's victory proved that disciplined fire-power and tactical defense (Rumi method) were superior to the brute strength of elephant-based medieval armies.

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