What was the name of the new department opened by Muhammad Tughlaq for the development of agriculture?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (A) Diwan-i-Kohi

Explanation:

• Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325–1351 CE), a Sultan of Delhi from the Tughlaq dynasty, was known for his ambitious and experimental policies.
• To promote agriculture and improve food production, he established the department of Diwan-i-Kohi.
• Its purpose was to bring uncultivated land under plough, improve irrigation facilities, and provide loans (known as Sondhar) to farmers for seeds and tools.
• However, due to poor planning, corruption, and lack of proper implementation, the scheme largely failed and added to the financial troubles of the empire.

Information Booster:

• Muhammad bin Tughlaq is also remembered for other policies such as:
• Token Currency Experiment – introduction of copper coins as token money (failed due to forgery).
• Capital Transfer – attempted shifting of the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad.
• Taxation in Doab – imposed heavy taxes in the fertile Doab region, leading to peasant revolts.
• Despite failures, he is regarded as a visionary ruler with ahead-of-time ideas.

Additional Knowledge:

• Diwan-i-Qaza – Department of Justice.
• Diwan-i-Wizarat – Department of Finance (headed by Wazir).
• Diwan-i-Risalat – Department of Religious Affairs.