In the administrative terminology of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal periods, what specific financial category did the term 'Khalisa' represent?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Khalisa lands were crown domains managed directly by imperial revenue officials, with all proceeds deposited directly into the royal treasury rather than assigned as jagirs to nobles. Tax-free lands granted to scholars and religious leaders were designated as Madad-i-Maash or Inam. Military border outposts were known as Thanas, and tributes exacted from vassal chiefs were termed Peshkash. The size of Khalisa territories fluctuated depending on central administrative policies and the financial needs of the sovereign.