The Delhi Sultanate: Economic Policies and Trade

Iltutmish introduced the Iqta system to strengthen his military and consolidate his control over the vast territories of the Delhi Sultanate.

Land Tax, also known as Kharaj, was the primary source of revenue for the Delhi Sultanate. It was levied on agricultural produce and collected from both Muslim and non-Muslim subjects.

Alauddin Khalji introduced a comprehensive system of market regulations and price controls to stabilize the economy and ensure fair trade practices.

Cotton Textiles were the primary export commodity of the Delhi Sultanate, renowned for their intricate designs and high quality.

Muhammad Tughluq attempted to introduce a uniform currency system, replacing the existing diverse coinage with a single silver coin known as the Tanka.

Horses were the primary import commodity of the Delhi Sultanate, essential for maintaining a strong cavalry force.

Firoz Shah Tughluq established a department of agriculture, known as the Diwan-i-Kohi, to promote agricultural productivity and improve irrigation systems.

The Arabian Sea Trade Route was the primary trade route used by the Delhi Sultanate for international trade, connecting it to regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Alauddin Khalji introduced a system of taxation based on the measurement of cultivated land, known as the Biswa system.

Bullock Carts were the primary mode of transportation used for trade within the Delhi Sultanate, due to their affordability and suitability for transporting goods over long distances.

Firoz Shah Tughluq established a network of sarais, or rest houses, along major trade routes to facilitate the movement of traders and goods.

Silver Coins were the primary form of currency used in the Delhi Sultanate, with the Tanka being the most common denomination.

Muhammad Tughluq attempted to introduce a system of forced labor, known as the corvée system, to boost agricultural production.

The primary purpose of the Delhi Sultanate's trade policies was to generate revenue for the state and support the military and administrative expenses of the empire.

Alauddin Khalji implemented a system of market regulations known as the Hisba, which aimed to control prices, ensure fair trade practices, and prevent hoarding of essential commodities.