Why did Alauddin Khalji put a check on the price of commodities? Analyse the steps taken by Alauddin Khalji to transform the markets of Delhi.
Answers
Allauddin Khalji ruled from 1296 to 1316. When he ascended the throne the kingdom was in complete disorder, trade and agriculture were paralyzed, and prices of commodities were soaring.
He took strong steps to check inflationery price rise and reduce prices. These were :
(1) Prices of most commodities were fixed e.g. for grain, pulses, meat , fish, vegetables, sugarcane, dry fruit, cloth, cattle and horses, needles, etc.
(2) Strict action was taken against hoarders, speculators, and black marketeers. On receiving any complaint about violation of these regulations, thorough investigation was made and harsh punishment given to violators of these regulations.
(3) Dalals and middlemen who raised prices artificially were eliminated. Only those traders registered with the state were allowed to purchase grain, etc from peasants and other producers.
(4) Godowns were established where grain was stored in reserve to be released in times of scarcity e.g. famine
(5) A department called Diwan -e-Riyasat was set up to enforce these regulations
(6) Daily reports of prices had to be submitted to the Sultan who kept a watch on prices.
I don't know the answer to this question. Sorry