INTRODUCTION
Feroz Shah Tughlaq was a ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty in medieval India, who is widely recognized for his significant administrative and economic reforms. Feroz Shah Tughlaq ruled from 1351 to 1388 and during his reign, he implemented several policies aimed at strengthening the administration and boosting the economy of his kingdom. His reforms touched on various aspects of governance, including taxation, land revenue, law and order, and social welfare. Feroz Shah's reforms had a lasting impact on the administration and economy of medieval India, and his legacy continues to be felt even today. This essay will provide an overview of Feroz Shah Tughlaq’s administrative and economic reforms and their impact on the society of medieval India.
ADMINISTRATIVE AND ECONOMIC REFORMS OF FEROZ SHAH TUGHLAQ :
Feroz Shah Tughlaq, a ruler of the Tughlaq dynasty in medieval India, implemented several administrative and economic reforms during his reign from 1351 to 1388. These reforms aimed to strengthen the administration of the kingdom and boost the economy. In this section, we will discuss these reforms in detail.
ESTABLISHMENT OF DIWAN-I-BANDAGAN : Feroz Shah Tughlaq established a new department called the Diwan-i-Bandagan, which was responsible for the welfare of slaves and labourers. This department was headed by a minister who oversaw the welfare of these marginalized sections of society. The department was responsible for providing financial assistance, medical aid, and education to slaves and labourers.
INTRODUCTION OF FEROZ SHAHI CURRENCY : Feroz Shah Tughlaq introduced a new currency called the Feroz Shahi, which was made of pure silver. The currency was designed to replace the debased coinage of the previous rulers, which had led to inflation and economic instability. The Feroz Shahi was minted in several denominations, including gold and copper coins. The new currency was widely accepted and helped to stabilize the economy of the kingdom.
SYSTEM OF MEASUREMENT FOR LAND : Feroz Shah Tughlaq introduced a system of measurement for land, which was used to determine the amount of tax that farmers had to pay. The system was based on the measurement of the land's fertility, and the tax rate was determined accordingly. This system replaced the arbitrary tax system of the previous rulers, which had led to exploitation and discontent among the farmers. The new system of measurement for land helped to increase revenue for the kingdom and provided a fairer system of taxation.
ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS : Feroz Shah Tughlaq implemented several administrative reforms to strengthen the administration of the kingdom. He appointed honest and efficient officials to key positions, and he introduced a system of checks and balances to prevent corruption and abuse of power. He also established a network of canals to improve irrigation and agriculture, which helped to boost the economy of the kingdom.
SOCIAL WELFARE MEASURES : Feroz Shah Tughlaq implemented several social welfare measures, including the construction of hospitals and dispensaries, and the establishment of public baths and rest houses. He also provided financial assistance to widows and orphans, and he encouraged the development of arts and literature.
In conclusion, Feroz Shah Tughlaq's administrative and economic reforms had a lasting impact on the administration and economy of medieval India. His reforms helped to stabilize the economy, improve the welfare of marginalized sections of society, and provide a fairer system of taxation. Feroz Shah Tughlaq's legacy continues to be felt even today, and he is remembered as a visionary ruler who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his people.
FEROZ SHAH TUGHLAQ'S IMPACT :
Feroz Shah Tughlaq's administrative and economic reforms had a positive impact on the economy and the administration of the empire. In this section, we will discuss his impact in detail.
INCREASE IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION : Feroz Shah Tughlaq's reforms aimed at improving the agricultural production of the empire, which led to an increase in revenue. His system of measurement for land helped to determine the amount of tax that farmers had to pay based on the fertility of the land. This helped to ensure that farmers were paying a fair amount of tax and led to an increase in agricultural production. Feroz Shah Tughlaq also established a network of canals to improve irrigation and agriculture, which further increased the productivity of the land. This increase in agricultural production led to a corresponding increase in revenue for the empire.
REGULATION OF MARKETS AND PRICES : Feroz Shah Tughlaq established markets and regulated prices to create a more stable and efficient economy. He introduced regulations to prevent hoarding and price manipulation, which helped to ensure that prices remained stable and affordable. This led to increased trade and commerce, which further boosted the economy of the empire. The establishment of markets also made it easier for farmers and merchants to sell their goods, leading to increased revenue for both the government and the people.
ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS : Feroz Shah Tughlaq's administrative reforms helped to create a more efficient and effective government. He appointed honest and efficient officials to key positions, which helped to prevent corruption and abuse of power. He also established a system of checks and balances to ensure that the government was functioning properly. This led to a more stable and reliable government, which in turn helped to create a more stable and reliable economy.
SOCIAL WELFARE MEASURES : Feroz Shah Tughlaq's social welfare measures helped to improve the lives of the people of the empire. He provided financial assistance to widows and orphans, which helped to alleviate their suffering. He also established hospitals and dispensaries to provide medical care to the people. This led to a healthier population, which was more productive and contributed to the growth of the economy.
In conclusion, Feroz Shah Tughlaq's administrative and economic reforms had a significant impact on the economy and administration of the empire. His efforts to improve agricultural production, regulate markets and prices, and introduce social welfare measures led to a more stable and efficient economy. His legacy as a visionary ruler who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of his people continues to be felt even today.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Feroz Shah Tughlaq's reign as a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate was marked by several administrative and economic reforms that had a significant impact on the empire. His policies aimed at improving agricultural production, regulating markets and prices, and establishing social welfare measures helped to create a more stable and efficient economy. His efforts to strengthen the government and improve the lives of his people have left a lasting legacy that continues to be felt even today. Feroz Shah Tughlaq's reforms not only contributed to the growth of the Delhi Sultanate but also set the stage for the development of a more prosperous and equitable society. His vision and leadership continue to inspire generations of Indians and stand as a testament to the power of good governance and progressive policies.