Explore the expansion of the Delhi Sultanate under Muhammed Bin Tughlaq and his successors from 1324 to 1351. Learn about their rapid territorial expansion and the challenges they faced in maintaining control.

The reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325–1351 CE) is remembered for his intellectual interests, bold administrative experiments, agrarian policies, and military campaigns. Known as a scholar-king, he engaged with diverse faiths and introduced ambitious reforms, though many failed. This topic is crucial for students preparing for history and competitive exams as it highlights the complexities of medieval Indian governance.

Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s Reforms and Policies (1325–1351 CE)

• A scholar-king with wide-ranging intellectual and religious interests.

  Muhammad bin Tughlaq was deeply engaged in philosophical, religious, and intellectual pursuits, often interacting with spiritual figures across traditions.

  • (i) He interacted with Muslim mystics, Hindu yogis, and Jain saints like Jinaprabha Suri.
  • (ii) His openness to diverse viewpoints led orthodox theologians to criticize him as a rationalist.

• Administrative Experiments and Governance Reforms

  Muhammad bin Tughlaq initiated ambitious reforms to strengthen his rule, though most backfired due to poor execution.

  • Capital Transfer to Daulatabad

    • (i) He shifted the capital from Delhi to Deogir (renamed Daulatabad).
    • (ii) The move aimed at better control over South India.
    • (iii) Logistical difficulties and discontent led to its abandonment.

  • Introduction of Token Currency

    • (i) Issued bronze coins due to a shortage of silver.
    • (ii) Rampant forgery destabilized the economy.
    • (iii) The experiment was eventually withdrawn.

• Agrarian Policies and Agricultural Challenges

  His agrarian policies aimed to improve agricultural productivity but faced major setbacks.

  • Doab Region Agricultural Measures

    • (i) Promoted superior crops like wheat and sugarcane.
    • (ii) Over-assessment of taxes and price-fixing burdened farmers.
    • (iii) Severe famine worsened conditions, and relief efforts were too late.

• Nobility and Social Policies

  He attempted to break traditional structures of nobility by elevating commoners.

  • Appointments from Non-Noble Backgrounds

    • (i) Individuals of humble origins were promoted into nobility.
    • (ii) This move created resentment among established noble families.

• Military and Strategic Campaigns

  Muhammad bin Tughlaq pursued expansionist ambitions while facing strong external threats.

  • Mongol Threats and Expansion Attempts

    • (i) Defended against recurring Mongol incursions.
    • (ii) Attempted expansion into Khurasan and Afghanistan.
    • (iii) Strategic and logistical difficulties limited success.

• Summary of Muhammad bin Tughlaq’s Reforms

  The reign of Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325–1351 CE) reflects the paradox of a visionary yet impractical ruler. His administrative experiments, agrarian policies, and military campaigns showcase ambition but also failure. For students, his rule is significant for understanding medieval Indian polity, statecraft, and the challenges of governance.