Meaning of the term Iqtadar used during Sultanate
The term “Iqtadar” refers to a revenue assignment or a land grant given to a person during the Sultanate period in medieval India. The Iqtadars were appointed by the Sultan or his provincial governors to collect revenue from a particular region or area.
The Iqtadar system was an important aspect of the administration of the Sultanate as it helped in the efficient collection of revenue and management of resources. The Iqtadars were responsible for collecting taxes and revenue from various sources such as agriculture, trade, and commerce, and were expected to remit a fixed amount to the government.
The Iqtadar was usually given a fixed tenure and was required to maintain a detailed account of the revenue collected and the expenses incurred in the process. The Iqtadar was paid a commission for his services, and he was also responsible for maintaining law and order in his area.
The Iqtadar system allowed the government to decentralize power and administration, and it helped in the efficient collection of revenue. The Iqtadars were appointed based on their administrative capabilities and their loyalty to the Sultan or the government.
However, the Iqtadar system was not without its problems. Some Iqtadars abused their power and exploited the local population, leading to widespread corruption and maladministration. In some cases, the Iqtadars rebelled against the Sultan or the government, leading to political instability and social unrest.
Overall, the Iqtadar system played an important role in the administration of the Sultanate. It helped in the efficient collection of revenue and management of resources, and it allowed the government to decentralize power and administration. However, the system was not without its problems and challenges, and it contributed to the political and social changes that characterized the medieval period in India.