Medieval India is a vibrant chapter in the nation’s history, marked by shifting political landscapes and innovative economic practices. The economic and revenue administration during this period was crucial, shaping resources and wealth distribution across regions. This influenced agrarian setups, trade networks, and urban growth. This post explores the economic structures under three major powers of the time: the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, and the Marathas. Each empire developed unique administrative methods that significantly impacted the socio-economic fabric of medieval India.

Economic and Revenue Administration Under the Delhi Sultanate

The Delhi Sultanate, which ruled from the 13th to the 16th centuries, laid the foundation for revenue administration in medieval India. It introduced effective tax collection systems essential for state finances and governance.

Taxation System

The Delhi Sultanate adopted a taxation system influenced by Islamic principles. Land revenue was the main income source, and the agrarian society was categorized based on landholding patterns. The most notable tax was Kharāj, a land tax that required cultivators to pay a portion of their produce to the state.

Kharāj amounted to about 20%—or one-fifth—of total agricultural output. This tax funded military campaigns and state administration. Additionally, trade and commerce were taxed; market taxes, known as Shohrat, were vital for urban economies and significantly contributed to state revenues.

Despite a comprehensive taxation system, collection faced hurdles due to the empire's vastness and local uprisings. To address these challenges, the Sultanate appointed various administrators to streamline revenue processes.