Author: Dr. Dhirendra Nath Ghosh
Abstract: The Delhi Sultanate was one of the most significant political powers in medieval Indian history and played an important role in the development of centralized administration and governance. This study examines the political and administrative structure of the Delhi Sultanate with special focus on kingship, central and provincial administration, military organization, judicial system and revenue administration. The Sultan was the supreme authority and controlled political, military and judicial functions through various administrative departments such as Diwan-i-Wizarat, Diwan-i-Arz and Diwan-iInsha. The iqta system became an important institution for maintaining military and administrative control over provinces. The study also analyzes the role of nobles, ulema and provincial governors in governance and political stability. Major rulers such as Iltutmish, Balban and Alauddin Khalji introduced reforms that strengthened administration and military power (Chandra, 2007). The research further highlights the challenges faced by the Sultanate, including Mongol invasions, noble conflicts and provincial revolts, which eventually contributed to its decline. The study concludes that the administrative institutions and political practices of the Delhi Sultanate had a lasting influence on later medieval Indian governance, especially the Mughal Empire, and played a major role in shaping Indian political history (Jackson, 1999).
Keywords: Delhi Sultanate, Central Administration, Iqta System, Military Administration, Medieval Indian Governance.
Page No: 247-260