The Administration of the Delhi Empire in the Pre-Mughal Period

Summary

The administration of the Delhi Empire in the pre-Mughal period was characterized by evolving land revenue systems and provincial governance. Land revenue, the primary income source, was initially assessed through "guess or computation," with Alauddin Khilji introducing the *jari* system for measurement. His exorbitant taxation, set at half the gross annual produce, included grazing fees and perquisites for officials, with strict scrutiny to prevent corruption. However, this system collapsed after his death. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq revived the older method but emphasized moderation, ensuring cultivation increased and taxes were fair to prevent peasant discontent. He canceled unauthorized revenue claims and punished officials for deductions. Under Muhammad Tughlaq, taxation reached extreme levels, reportedly ten to twenty times the produce, causing widespread distress. Feroz Tughlaq later restored balance, abolishing 23 illegal taxes and implementing fairer assessments based on land conditions and irrigation. Provincial administration divided the empire into provinces, with the number fluctuating based on territorial changes. During Muhammad Tughlaq’s reign, twelve provinces were recorded, including Delhi, Gujarat, Malwa, and Tilang. Revenue collection and governance varied across provinces, with officials often wielding discretionary power. Despite reforms by Ghiyasuddin and Feroz Tughlaq, corruption and inefficiencies persisted due to weak central oversight. The period saw shifts between oppressive taxation and attempts at equitable systems, reflecting the challenges of balancing state revenue needs with peasant welfare.