Question

Critically analyse the administrative reforms implemented by Mohammed bin Tughlaq.

Answer 1

Instructions:

• Explain in detail the administrative reforms by Mohammed bin Tughlaq on the following lines:
  • Revenue reforms.
  • Shifting of his capital.
  • Experiment of symbolic coins.
• Conclude with the comment.

Solution:

Mahammed bin Tughlaq implemented the following administrative reforms:

1. Revenue reforms: He introduced an official record that had all the details of lands of the empire and established department of agriculture. Various schemes were implemented to provide financial assistance to the farmers but he imposed higher land taxes on the farmers of Do-ab region.
2. Shifting of his capital: Mohammed bin Tughlaq shifted his capital from Delhi to Devagiri in central India to establish the capital city at the centre of the vast empire, and to protect the capital city from foreign invasions. Numerous common people suffered as proper precautions were not taken.
3. Experiment of symbolic coins: After the introduction of gold and silver coins, he brought in circulation of symbolic copper and bronze coins. The coins were minted more than the required number without the permission of the Sultan as minting rights were not vested in the government alone.

Although, Muhammad Tughluq failed in successfully implementing any of his schemes,but all his measures were way ahead of his time. His officials and subjects failed to understand the worth of his schemes and, therefore, did not cooperate with him to bring those measures to success. However, the responsibility of the Sultan for the failure of his schemes cannot be completely ruled out.