Which of the following was a primary objective of Alauddin Khilji's ‘Market Control’ (Zawabit) regulations?

Question

Which of the following was a primary objective of Alauddin Khilji's ‘Market Control’ (Zawabit) regulations?

1. A. To replace religious taxation with a uniform system of commercial levies across markets.
2. B. To keep essential commodity prices low so soldiers could be maintained on fixed salaries. (Correct answer)
3. C. To expand treasury revenue by encouraging unrestricted trade with neighboring regions.
4. D. To promote overseas trade by encouraging Indian textile exports to foreign empires.

Correct Answer

Option B — To keep essential commodity prices low so soldiers could be maintained on fixed salaries.

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is To keep essential commodity prices low.

Key Points

• Alauddin Khilji's market control regulations fixed the prices of grain, cloth, horses, cattle and slaves, and enforced them through a dedicated administrative machinery.
• The primary aim was to make it possible to maintain a large standing army on modest salaries — affordable prices meant soldiers could be paid less without hardship.
• The measures were about price stability and military capacity, not about expanding trade or replacing taxation.

Additional Information

• The enforcement structure included the Diwan-i-Riyasat (controller of markets), the Shahna-i-Mandi (superintendent of the grain market) and the Munhiyan (intelligence officers reporting on violations).
• Separate markets were designated: Mandi for grain, Sarai-i-Adl for cloth and manufactured goods, and distinct markets for horses and slaves.
• Grain was stockpiled in state granaries so supply could be released during shortage, keeping prices steady.
• Alauddin Khilji ruled 1296-1316 as part of the Khilji dynasty of the Delhi Sultanate and repelled repeated Mongol invasions.