Introduction:
The Sultanate of Delhi was a medieval Muslim kingdom that ruled over parts of the Indian subcontinent from the 13th to the 16th centuries. The sultans of Delhi played a crucial role in shaping the political, social, and cultural landscape of the region. Among the various sultans, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq was the first to recruit foreigners as his officers but later opened up all highest offices to all classes of Indians based solely on merit.

Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq and his Foreign Officers:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq ascended the throne in 1325 and was known for his ambitious and innovative policies. One of his notable actions was the recruitment of foreigners as his officers. He believed that foreigners would be more loyal and efficient in administering the kingdom. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq recruited people from regions like Central Asia, Persia, and Iraq to serve as his officers. These foreigners brought with them different administrative skills and cultural perspectives, which influenced the functioning of the Delhi Sultanate.

The Opening of Highest Offices to Indians:
Despite initially relying on foreigners, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq later realized the importance of indigenous talent and opened up all highest offices to all classes of Indians. This decision was a departure from the norm of the time, as social status and lineage often determined one's eligibility for important positions. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq recognized that merit should be the primary criterion for appointing individuals to high offices.

Reasons for the Change in Policy:
There were several reasons that prompted Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq to change his recruitment policy and open up highest offices to Indians:

1. Administrative Challenges: The recruitment of foreigners faced practical difficulties, including language barriers and cultural differences. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq recognized that Indians who were familiar with local customs and traditions would be better suited to perform administrative tasks effectively.

2. Financial Constraints: The Sultanate faced financial strains due to the expensive maintenance of a large army and ambitious projects like the shifting of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad. Appointing Indians to high offices, who were generally paid lower salaries than foreigners, helped reduce the financial burden.

3. Political Stability: By opening up high offices to Indians, Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq aimed to ensure political stability and the loyalty of the local population. This decision helped in fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging among the Indian subjects, strengthening the Sultanate's grip on power.

Conclusion:
Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's decision to recruit foreigners as officers initially and later open up highest offices to all classes of Indians based on merit reflects his pragmatism and flexibility as a ruler. This policy change aimed to address the practical challenges faced by the Sultanate and promote administrative efficiency and political stability. Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq's reign marked a significant shift in the recruitment policies of the Delhi Sultanate and contributed to the evolution of the administrative system in medieval India.