Question

Which of the following steps did Balban take to combat Mongol attacks?

Option 1 He built large and strong army.

Option 2 He built forts along the north-west boundaries.

Option 3 He fortified his palace.

Option 4 Both (a) and (b).​

Answer 1

Answer:

4

Explanation:

Following steps were taken by Balban to combat the Mongol menace: -

1. Use of diplomacy - Balban sent an envoy to Halaku, the Mongol ruler and Halaku sent a return embassy in 1260 which was given a grand and impressive reception by Balban.
2. Strengthening the army - Balban laid great emphasis on maintaining a large efficient army.
3. No territorial expansion rather consolidation and securing the Capital.
4. Construction of Forts and repairing the older forts - eg fort of Bathinda, Abohar etc.
5. Appointment of powerful chiefs - Balban appointed powerful chiefs for the safety of his frontier like Sher Khan, Prince Muhammad etc.
6. Balban used heavy hand and spy system to check internal disturbances

Balban did manage to contain the Mongols at the Multan-Dipalpur-Sunam line along the river Beas. But he was not able to push back the Mongols from the tract beyond Lahore, although he was faced only with second rank Mongol commanders.