Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
Which one of the following Kings of the medieval India began the 'Public Distribution System'?
Solution & Analysis
Answer: A
Concept
To maintain a large army at low cost, Alauddin Khalji introduced strict market regulations that ensured the availability of essential grains at fixed, low prices for both soldiers and the public.Explanation
Contemporary records indicate that Alauddin established state granaries in Delhi and mandated that grain be sold at regulated prices, especially during times of scarcity, functioning as an early PDS.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: He established the 'Mandi' (grain market) and 'Sarai-i-Adl' (market for cloth and other goods) to control supply and pricing.
Logic 2: In times of famine or shortage, the state rationed grain from its reserves, ensuring that the basic needs of the city's population were met.