[Solved] Which Sultan demanded half the crops? | Alauddin Khalji

Which Sultan demanded half the crops on land after measurement as revenue?

[B.P.S.C. Prelims 2018]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Alauddin Khalji introduced the most rigorous land revenue system of the Sultanate, aimed at squeezing the rural surplus to support his massive standing army.

Authentic Source Evidence

He mandated that land revenue (Kharaj) be set at 50% of the produce. Crucially, this was calculated after the measurement of the land (Biswa system) to ensure accuracy and eliminate the power of local intermediaries.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Option C is correct. He was the first Sultan to insist on measurement for all cultivated lands in the Doab region.

Logic 2: While MBT (D) also increased taxes in the Doab, the specific policy of '50% after measurement' is the hallmark of the Khalji era.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What was the purpose of the 'Biswa' system?"

It was a standard unit of measurement introduced by Alauddin to calculate revenue fairly and accurately based on the actual size of the field.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The demand for 50% revenue was designed not just for fiscal gain, but to strip the rural aristocracy (Khuts and Muqaddams) of the wealth needed to rebel."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Kharaj 4

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