R.A.S./R.T.S. Prelims 2013

Sultanate Administration

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer: | List-I | List-II | | :--- | :--- | | A. Diwan-i-Arz | 1. Dealt with religious matters | | B. Diwan-i-Risalat | 2. Dealt with state’s correspondence | | C. Diwan-i-Insha | 3. Dealt with Finance Dept | | D. Diwan-i-Wizarat | 4. Dealt with Military Dept |

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The Delhi Sultanate developed a sophisticated four-pillar administrative system to manage the military, finances, religious affairs, and royal correspondence.

Explanation According to Satish Chandra, the Diwan-i-Wizarat (Finance) was the most important. Diwan-i-Arz (Military) was established by Balban. Diwan-i-Risalat dealt with foreign/religious affairs, and Diwan-i-Insha managed royal decrees and correspondence.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Diwan-i-Arz (A-4) was the military department responsible for recruitment and training.
Logic 2: Diwan-i-Risalat (B-1) handled appeals and religious/charitable grants.
Logic 3: Diwan-i-Insha (C-2) was the 'Department of Records' for state correspondence.
Logic 4: Diwan-i-Wizarat (D-3) was the finance ministry headed by the Wazir.

Active Recall

Question

Which department was headed by the 'Ariz-i-Mumalik'?

Answer

The Diwan-i-Arz (Military Department) was headed by the Ariz-i-Mumalik.

Core Insight

The separation of finance (Wizarat) from the military (Arz) was a strategic move to prevent any single official from becoming too powerful.