OPSC OAS 2022 PrelimsHistory, Art & CultureQuestion 7
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2022 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
Consider the following statements regarding Alauddin Khalji.
- He set up three distinct markets one for food grains, one for cloth and the third for horses.
- A Shahna was posted in the market.
- The Peasants had to pay land revenue in kind.
- Slaves were transacted in the market during his time.
Which of the following are correct?
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (C) 1, 2 and 4
- Alauddin Khalji established specialized markets in Delhi: Mandi for grain, Sarai Adl for cloth and merchandise, and a separate market for horses and livestock.This was part of his famous market control reforms.
- Alauddin appointed market superintendents (Shahnas) who enforced price controls, prevented hoarding, ensured quality standards, and collected taxes from merchants.
- Alauddin Khalji actually reformed the system to require land revenue payments in cash rather than in kind, which was a significant administrative change to support his military campaigns and centralized control.
- Historical records confirm active slave markets during Alauddin’s reign, particularly following his military campaigns which resulted in many prisoners being brought to Delhi and sold as slaves.
