Alauddin Khilji’s administrative practices: Foundations for later governance in India

Abstract

This research paper discusses the administrative practices of Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi from 1296 to 1316, and their profound impact on the foundations of later governance in India. Alauddin Khilji is recognized for implementing a range of administrative reforms, including revenue policies, market regulation, and military organization, aimed at consolidating his empire and ensuring its stability. By analyzing primary and secondary sources, this study explores how Khilji's strategies-such as revenue policies, centralised bureaucracy, market control, economic and military reforms-established a framework that influenced subsequent governance, including the Mughal administration. The paper reflects that Khilji's governance model laid the groundwork for administrative continuity and adaptation, contributing significantly to the evolution of India's political and administrative landscape.