Q. Arrange the following administrative units of the Delhi Sultanate in the correct descending order of their size (from largest to smallest):
1.Shiq
2.Iqta / Suba
3.Pargana
4.Village (Gram)
Select the correct code:

[A] 2 - 1 - 3 - 4

[B] 1 - 2 - 3 - 4

[C] 2 - 3 - 1 - 4

[D] 1 - 3 - 2 - 4

Answer: A
Notes:

Explanation:

The Delhi Sultanate’s territorial administration hierarchy was structured as follows:

  1. Iqta / Suba: The largest unit, essentially a province or governorship. (Managed by the Muqti or Wali).
  2. Shiq: A division within the Iqta, created primarily during the Tughlaq period. (Managed by the Shiqdar).
  3. Pargana: A group of villages, similar to a modern district/sub-division. (Managed by officials like Amil and Chaudhary).
  4. Village (Gram): The smallest unit of local self-administration. (Managed by the Muqaddam or Khut).

Therefore, the correct descending order is 2 – 1 – 3 – 4.

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