Understanding Diwan-i-Arz under the Delhi Sultanate

The question asks about the primary function of the department known as Diwan-i-Arz during the reign of the Delhi Sultanate. Understanding the administrative structure of the Delhi Sultanate is crucial to answer this question correctly.

The Delhi Sultanate had several important departments to manage the vast empire. Each department was responsible for a specific area of administration. The Diwan-i-Arz was one such key department.

Let's analyze the options provided:

• Financial services: This was handled by the Diwan-i-Wizarat, headed by the Wazir.
• Court ceremonies: While court etiquette existed, there wasn't a major department solely dedicated to this like the Diwan-i-Arz.
• Military services: This department was responsible for maintaining the army, recruitment, salary payment, and logistics.
• Royal karkhanas: These were royal workshops producing goods for the court and army, often managed under a separate system, but not the primary function of Diwan-i-Arz.

The Diwan-i-Arz was specifically established to look after the military administration of the Delhi Sultanate. It played a vital role in maintaining the strength and efficiency of the Sultan's army.

The head of the Diwan-i-Arz was called the Ariz-i-Mumalik. His duties included:

• Recruiting soldiers for the army.
• Paying salaries to the soldiers.
• Maintaining the discipline and efficiency of the army.
• Conducting inspections of the troops and horses (branding of horses, known as 'dagh', was introduced by Alauddin Khalji and managed by this department).
• Organizing military expeditions.

Based on these functions, it is clear that the Diwan-i-Arz was fundamentally the department of military services under the Delhi Sultanate.

Revision Table: Key Delhi Sultanate Departments

Additional Information on Delhi Sultanate Administration

The administrative system of the Delhi Sultanate was a blend of Indian and Islamic practices. The Sultan was the supreme authority, assisted by a council of ministers. The state was divided into provinces (iqtas) managed by governors (muqtis or walis).

• The military was crucial for maintaining control and expanding the territory, hence the importance of the Diwan-i-Arz.
• Revenue collection was vital, managed by the Diwan-i-Wizarat, ensuring funds for administration and the military.
• Communication and record-keeping were handled by the Diwan-i-Insha.
• Judicial and religious affairs were overseen by the Sadr-us-Sudur and Qazi-ul-Quzat.

Understanding these different departments helps in grasping the overall administrative structure of the Delhi Sultanate period and the specific role of the Diwan-i-Arz within it.