U.P.P.C.S. Mains 2011

Lodi Dynasty Urbanization

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which medieval Sultan has the credit of founding the city of Agra and making it the capital of the Sultanate?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept Agra was established to provide the Sultanate with a strategic outpost to control the rebellious chiefs of the Doab and to maintain a watch on Rajasthan.

Explanation Historical records confirm that Sikandar Lodi founded Agra in 1504 CE and shifted his capital there from Delhi in 1506 CE.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The Yamuna river provided natural defense and a trade route, making Agra an ideal administrative center.
Logic 2: Sikandar Lodi's move laid the foundation for Agra's future prominence under the Mughals, who later made it their primary seat of power.

Active Recall

Question

Why did Sikandar Lodi choose Agra over Delhi?

Answer

Agra allowed for better military control over the problematic areas of Bayana, Gwalior, and the Rajput kingdoms.

Core Insight

The founding of Agra was a strategic military decision that shifted the geopolitical focus of North India slightly southward.