Which of the following Delhi Sultanate rulers instituted the 'Haq-i-Sharb' (irrigation tax), levied on lands irrigated by canals constructed by the state?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Firoz Shah Tughlaq instituted the Haq-i-Sharb, a ten percent irrigation tax levied on agricultural lands watered by the extensive canal network constructed by the state administration. Earlier sultans like Alauddin Khalji focused on land revenue hikes rather than specialized water levies, while Muhammad bin Tughlaq faced agrarian failures with his token currency and Doab tax experiments. Firoz Shah also promoted horticulture by planting numerous gardens.