Majlis-i-Khalwat in the Delhi Sultanate

The correct answer is option 'D' - Majlis-i-Khalwat refers to a council of Ministers that assisted the Sultan in the Delhi Sultanate. The Delhi Sultanate was a medieval Islamic kingdom that ruled over northern India from the 13th to the 16th century. The Sultanate was known for its efficient administrative system, which included various departments and councils to aid in governance.

Explanation:

1. Delhi Sultanate
The Delhi Sultanate was established in 1206 when Qutub-ud-din Aibak, a Turkic slave-general, declared himself the Sultan of Delhi. The Sultanate was ruled by a series of dynasties, including the Mamluk, Khalji, Tughlaq, Sayyid, and Lodi dynasties. It played a significant role in shaping the political, cultural, and architectural landscape of medieval India.

2. Administrative System
The Delhi Sultanate had a well-organized administrative system to manage its vast territories. The Sultan was the supreme authority, but he relied on various departments and councils to assist him in governance. These departments were responsible for different aspects of administration, such as revenue collection, military affairs, justice, and intelligence.

3. Majlis-i-Khalwat
Majlis-i-Khalwat was a council of Ministers that formed an integral part of the administrative machinery of the Delhi Sultanate. The term "Majlis-i-Khalwat" can be translated as the "Council of Seclusion" or the "Council of Privacy." This council consisted of experienced and trusted advisors who provided guidance and assistance to the Sultan in matters of governance.

4. Role and Functions
The primary role of the Majlis-i-Khalwat was to assist the Sultan in decision-making, policy formulation, and the administration of the kingdom. The council members were appointed based on their expertise and loyalty to the Sultan. They held discussions, debates, and deliberations on various issues before presenting their recommendations to the Sultan.

5. Composition
The Majlis-i-Khalwat comprised senior ministers and advisors who were well-versed in the affairs of the state. They included important officials such as the Wazir (Prime Minister), Diwan-i-Arz (Minister of Military Affairs), Diwan-i-Insha (Minister of Correspondence), and Qazi-ul-Quzat (Chief Justice).

6. Importance
The Majlis-i-Khalwat played a critical role in maintaining the stability and efficiency of the Delhi Sultanate's administration. The council ensured that the Sultan's policies were well-informed, well-considered, and implemented effectively. It helped in balancing the power of the Sultan and prevented any arbitrary decision-making.

In conclusion, Majlis-i-Khalwat was a council of Ministers that assisted the Sultan in the Delhi Sultanate. It played a crucial role in the governance and administration of the kingdom, providing advice, recommendations, and expertise to the Sultan. The council members were experienced and trusted advisors who contributed to the stability and efficiency of the Delhi Sultanate's administrative system.