The question asks to identify the common name for the elite group of forty influential Turkish nobles organized by Iltutmish, who played a significant role in the politics of the early Sultanate period.
A) Chalisa (or Chihalgani, 'The Forty') — Iltutmish organized this elite group of forty influential Turkish nobles, known as the 'Turkan-i-Chihalgani' or 'Chalisa', to strengthen his position and administer the Sultanate. They were very powerful during and after his reign, often acting as kingmakers.
The question asks about the historical significance of Raziyya Sultan, specifically her unique position in the Delhi Sultanate after Iltutmish's immediate successor. To answer this, we need to recall the key rulers and their contributions during the Delhi Sultanate period.
Correct Option: B) The first (and only) woman to rule as Sultan of Delhi. Raziyya Sultan is indeed historically significant for being the first and only woman to hold the title of Sultan of Delhi, a remarkable achievement in a male-dominated era.
The question asks about Ghiyasuddin Balban's policy for strengthening royal authority. We need to identify the historical approach he adopted, which is often summarized by a particular phrase or concept.
Correct Option: C) 'Blood and Iron' (strict, authoritarian control)
Ghiyasuddin Balban is renowned for his stern and authoritarian rule aimed at restoring the prestige and power of the Sultanate. He believed in the divine right of kings and implemented a policy of rigorous discipline, severe punishment for defiance, and military strength to crush internal rebellions and external threats. This approach is best encapsulated by the phrase 'Blood and Iron', signifying a policy of achieving political goals through military force and strict governance.
The question asks for the Persian concept used by Balban to portray the Sultan as God's representative on Earth. This requires knowledge of Balban's administrative and political ideology during the Delhi Sultanate.
D) Zil-i-Ilahi ('Shadow of God') — Balban explicitly adopted and promoted the concept of "Zil-i-Ilahi" (Shadow of God) to emphasize the divine nature of kingship. He believed that the Sultan was the representative of God on Earth, and his actions were divinely ordained, thereby making him accountable only to God. This ideology was crucial for consolidating his power and restoring the dignity of the Sultanate.
The question asks about Balban's strategies to control the nobility and prevent conspiracies, specifically mentioning a military intelligence department. We need to identify the other key institution he strengthened alongside this to achieve his objectives.
Correct Option: A) Standing army. Balban understood that a strong, centrally controlled standing army was crucial to enforce his will, suppress internal revolts, and defend against external invasions. He disbanded the 'Chahalgani' and created a powerful military machine directly under his command, paying soldiers in cash and ensuring their loyalty. This, combined with his espionage system, allowed him to maintain strict control over the empire.
The question asks about the founder of the Khilji dynasty and the circumstances of its establishment. This requires knowledge of the succession of dynasties during the Delhi Sultanate period, specifically the transition from the Slave dynasty to the Khilji dynasty.
Correct Option: B) Jalaluddin Khilji