Introduction
Alauddin Khilji introduced a comprehensive system of market control and price regulations designed to maintain a massive standing army on modest salaries to counter external Mongol threats and internal rebellions. Contemporary historian Ziauddin Barani documented this elaborate economic intervention in his chronicle Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi.
Key Features of the Market Control System
- Market Segregation: Delhi was organized into specialized, distinct markets: Galla-mandi for food grains, Sarai-i-Adl for manufactured goods, cloths, and luxury items, and dedicated bazaars for horses, slaves, and cattle.
- Administrative Hierarchy: The system operated under a centralized commerce ministry called the Diwan-i-Riyasat, headed by a high-ranking official, while individual markets were strictly supervised on-ground by an inspector or superintendent called the Shahna-i-Mandi.
- Surveillance and Enforcement: Prices were fixed directly by imperial decree. Compliance was monitored through state intelligence officers (Barids) and child spies or informants (Munhiyans), with draconian punishments meted out for under-weighing or cheating.
- Supply Chain and Revenue Linkage: Continuous availability of grain was guaranteed by collecting agricultural revenue directly in kind from the fertile Doab region and stocking imperial granaries. Private hoarders and middlemen were eliminated, and all traders were mandated to register with the state.
Conclusion
While Alauddin Khilji's market regulations successfully curbed urban inflation, stabilized commodity prices, and ensured food security during his reign, the coercive command-and-control framework stifled commercial incentives and collapsed rapidly after his death.