Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq extended agricultural loans called sondhars to the poor peasants for promoting cultivation.

Explanation:
During the reign of Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq, the Delhi Sultanate faced various challenges, including economic issues and agrarian problems. To address the agricultural crisis and uplift the poor peasants, Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq implemented the policy of providing agricultural loans called sondhars.

Implementation of Sondhars:
The sondhar system was introduced to encourage cultivation and increase agricultural productivity. Under this system, loans were given to the poor peasants to promote agricultural activities. The loans were provided for purchasing seeds, cattle, and other necessary resources for cultivation.

Interest-Free Loans:
The sondhars given by Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq were interest-free loans, which meant that the peasants did not have to pay any interest on the borrowed amount. This was done to reduce the burden on the peasants and encourage them to take up farming without worrying about high interest rates.

Promotion of Cultivation:
By providing agricultural loans, Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq aimed to promote cultivation and increase agricultural production. The loans enabled the poor peasants to invest in farming activities, which in turn helped in improving their living conditions and uplifting the agrarian economy.

Impact of Sondhar System:
While the intention behind the sondhar system was noble, it faced certain challenges in its implementation. The loans were not always repaid on time, leading to financial difficulties for the government. Moreover, the system relied heavily on the efficiency of the local officials in identifying deserving peasants and ensuring the proper utilization of the loans.

Conclusion:
Sultan Muhammad bin Tughlaq's initiative of providing sondhars to the poor peasants aimed at promoting cultivation and improving the agrarian economy. Although the system faced challenges in its implementation, it reflected the Sultan's concern for the welfare of the peasants and his efforts to uplift the agricultural sector.