UPSC Prelims 2002 · General Studies

Question 49: History and Culture

With reference to medieval Indian rulers, which one of the following statements is correct?

aAlauddin Khalji first set up a separate Ariz's department

bBalban introduced the branding system of horses of military

cMuhammad bin Tughlaq was succeeded by his uncle to the Delhi throne

dFiruz Tughlaq set up a separate department of slaves

AnswerThe answer is (d).

Firuz Shah Tughlaq set up a separate department of slaves (Diwan-i-Bandagan), with a large number of slaves kept for the court and workshops. The other statements fail: Balban, not Alauddin, set up a separate military department (Diwan-i-Arz) under an ariz; Alauddin introduced the dagh, the branding of horses; and Muhammad bin Tughlaq was succeeded by his cousin Firuz, not by an uncle.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Balban, not Alauddin, set up the separate Diwan-i-Arz.
(b) Alauddin Khalji introduced the dagh (branding of horses), not Balban.
(c) Muhammad bin Tughlaq was succeeded by his cousin Firuz, not an uncle.
(d) Right: Firuz Tughlaq created the Diwan-i-Bandagan for slaves.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2002, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.