Sultanate Administration

Delhi Sultanate Departments Match | Diwan-i-Arz to Wizarat

In the Delhi Sultanate, Diwan-i-Arz was the Military Department, Diwan-i-Risalat handled religious matters, Diwan-i-Insha managed correspondence, and Diwan-i-Wizarat was the Finance Department.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class VII - Our Pasts II

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Match list-I with list-II and select the correct answer:
List-IList-II
A. Diwan-i-Arz1. Dealt with religious matters
B. Diwan-i-Risalat2. Dealt with state’s correspondence
C. Diwan-i-Insha3. Dealt with Finance Dept
D. Diwan-i-Wizarat4. Dealt with Military Dept

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

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

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

Authentic Source Evidence


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.

Analytical Breakdown


  • 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.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

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

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

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

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

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