Consider the following statements: **Assertion (A):** Alauddin Khalji introduced price control in Delhi. **Reason (R):** He wanted to pay lower wages to the artisans building his palaces in Delhi. Select the correct answer from the code given below:
U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2005
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not a correct explanation of (A).
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Answer: (A) is true, but (R) is false.
Option c is the correct answer.
Assertion (A) is true: Alauddin Khalji established price control in Delhi by creating dedicated markets, like the Mandi for grains, Sera-i Adl for manufactured goods, and regulating slave and animal markets. Fixed prices prevented inflation, ensuring affordability for essentials and fair trade practices, fostering economic stability during his reign. Reason (R) is False: Alauddin's policies were oriented towards controlling prices and ensuring social stability, rather than exploiting labor. His economic reforms were focused on price regulation and grain control, not on undermining artisans' wages.
Important Tips
Market reforms of Alauddin Khalji:
Alauddin Khilji, through his astute governance, established a comprehensive system of price control measures by introducing distinct markets in Delhi, each serving specific purposes:
Mandi - Central Grain Market and Local Grocery Shops: Alauddin initiated the Mandi, a centralized grain market, where staple cereals' prices were strictly regulated. This ensured stability in prices and prevented inflation. Additionally, grocery shops were set up in neighborhoods, reinforcing accessibility to essential goods for the populace.
Sera-i Adl - Market for Manufactured and Imported Goods: The Sera-i Adl served as the primary marketplace for a wide range of manufactured and imported commodities. Alauddin meticulously fixed prices for products such as silk, cotton, sugar, herbs, and dry fruits, preventing arbitrary price hikes and ensuring fair trade practices.
Slave and Animal Markets: Alauddin's reforms extended to markets for slaves and animals. He established fixed prices for different categories of slaves, including domestic workers, concubines, and laborers. Similarly, prices for various animals, from horses to cattle, were set to prevent exploitative practices.
General Markets for Other Commodities: Alauddin's visionary approach encompassed general markets where diverse goods were traded. He empowered Yaqub Nazir as the Minister of Commerce to supervise these markets meticulously. Price regulations were put in place to curb manipulation and maintain affordability for everyday essentials. Alauddin Khilji's strategic implementation of these distinct markets revolutionized the economic landscape. By ensuring consistent pricing, preventing unjust profiteering, and enhancing accessibility, these measures contributed to an equitable and stable trade environment during his reign.