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UPSC CSE Pre 2003

Founding of the Mughal Empire

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Alam Khan, one of those who invited Babur to invade India was:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The Lodi Sultanate’s internal instability paved the way for the Mughal conquest. Discontented nobles and relatives of the Sultan preferred a foreign invader over their own ruler to settle internal power struggles.

Explanation Alam Khan Lodi was the uncle of the reigning Sultan, Ibrahim Lodi. Believing he had a better claim to the throne, he joined forces with Daulat Khan Lodi (Governor of Punjab) and Rana Sanga to invite Babur to India. Alam Khan specifically sought Babur's help to displace his nephew in exchange for territorial concessions.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Alam Khan acted as a 'pretender,' meaning he claimed the right to be Sultan. His invitation was a calculated political move to use Babur as a mercenary tool.
Logic 2: This internal betrayal was the critical factor that allowed Babur to enter the subcontinent with local intelligence and support.

Active Recall

Question

What did Alam Khan promise Babur in return for his help?

Answer

He promised Babur control over the Punjab region in exchange for helping him secure the throne of Delhi.

Core Insight

The invitation to Babur proves that 16th-century political loyalties were often based on personal ambition rather than national or religious unity.

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