CBSE Class 7 Social Science: The Delhi Sultans NCERT Solutions

Reviewed by NCERT Help Editorial Team · Updated on 29 Jul 2026

NCERT Solutions PDF Class 7 PDF

This chapter delves into the history of the Delhi Sultanate, covering the period from the early 13th century to the 16th century. It explores the establishment of Delhi as a capital, the various dynasties that ruled, and the administrative structures they implemented. Key aspects discussed include the role of rulers like Qutbuddin Aibak, Iltutmish, Raziyya Sultan, Alauddin Khalji, and Muhammad Tughluq. The solutions also touch upon the importance of administration, revenue collection, military organization, and the cultural exchange brought about by travelers like Ibn Battuta. Understanding the 'internal' and 'external' frontiers of the Sultanate, the significance of the 'circle of justice', and the impact of Mongol invasions provides a comprehensive view of this historical era. These NCERT Solutions are designed to help students grasp the core concepts, understand the historical significance of the Delhi Sultans, and prepare effectively for their examinations by providing clear explanations and detailed answers to all chapter-related questions.

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Board	CBSE
Class	Class 7
Subject	Social Science
Session	2026
Language	English
Type	NCERT Solutions
Chapter	Chapter 3 – The Delhi Sultans

Chapter summary

Chapter 3, 'The Delhi Sultans,' focuses on the establishment and expansion of the Delhi Sultanate. It covers the initial rulers who made Delhi their capital, the administrative language (Persian), and the territorial extent under rulers like Muhammad Tughluq. The chapter also highlights the contributions of travelers like Ibn Battuta, the importance of the 'circle of justice' for military commanders, and the distinction between internal and external frontiers. It examines the measures taken to control muqtis, the impact of Mongol invasions, and the role of historians (authors of tawarikh). The unique position of Raziyya Sultan and the reasons for deforestation by the Sultans are also discussed. The solutions provide answers to questions about the dynasties that formed the Sultanate and key historical events.

Learning outcomes

Identify the first ruler to establish the capital at Delhi.
Understand the administrative language of the Delhi Sultanate.
Explain the farthest extent of the Sultanate and the ruler responsible.
Recognize the origin of traveler Ibn Battuta.
Analyze the importance of the 'circle of justice' for military commanders.
Differentiate between the 'internal' and 'external' frontiers of the Sultanate.
Describe the measures taken to ensure the performance of muqtis.
Discuss the impact of Mongol invasions on the Delhi Sultanate.

Topics covered

Paper topics

Establishment of Delhi as a Capital
Rulers of the Delhi Sultanate
Dynasties of the Delhi Sultanate
Administrative Language (Persian)
Territorial Extent of the Sultanate
Travelers like Ibn Battuta
The 'Circle of Justice'
Internal and External Frontiers
Role of Muqtis
Impact of Mongol Invasions
Authors of Tawarikh
Women Leaders (Raziyya Sultan)

Important topics

Rulers and Dynasties of the Delhi Sultanate
Administrative System and Policies
The 'Circle of Justice' and Peasantry
Key Travelers and their Accounts
Expansion and Frontiers of the Sultanate

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Questions and Solutions

Question 1

Which ruler first established his or her capital at Delhi?

Solution: The Tomara Rajputs were the very first rulers who established their capital city at Delhi, marking the beginning of its significance as a political center.

Question 2

What was the language of administration under the Delhi Sultans?

Solution: The primary language used for administration and official purposes by the Delhi Sultans was Persian. This choice influenced courtly culture and historical record-keeping.

Question 3

In whose reign did the Sultanate reach its farthest extent?

Solution: The Delhi Sultanate achieved its maximum territorial expansion during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Tughluq. His ambitious campaigns and administrative policies led to the largest geographical coverage of the Sultanate.

Question 4

From which country did Ibn Battuta travel to India?

Solution: Ibn Battuta, the renowned traveler and scholar, journeyed to India from Morocco, a country located in North Africa. His extensive travels and writings provide valuable insights into the period.

Question 5

According to the 'circle of justice' why was it important for military commanders to keep the interests of the peasantry in mind?

Solution: The 'circle of justice' emphasized that the king's authority and the well-being of the state depended on the prosperity of the peasantry. Peasants were the primary source of revenue, which funded the army and administration. Therefore, military commanders needed to ensure that peasants were not overburdened with taxes and were able to cultivate their lands, thus maintaining a stable revenue flow and supporting the military.

Question 6

What is meant by the 'internal' and 'external' frontiers of the Sultanate?

Solution: The 'internal' frontiers of the Delhi Sultanate referred to the hinterland areas surrounding the garrison towns. These were the regions directly controlled and administered by the Sultanate. The 'external' frontiers, on the other hand, encompassed territories beyond the immediate control of the garrison towns, including areas that were either unconquered or subject to frequent raids and rebellions.

Question 7

What were the steps taken to ensure that muqtis performed their duties? Why do you think they may have wanted to defy the orders of the Sultans?

Solution: To ensure that muqtis performed their duties effectively, the state appointed accountants to verify the revenue collected and ensure it matched the prescribed taxes. Care was taken that muqtis collected only the taxes mandated by the state and maintained only the required number of soldiers.

Muqtis might have wanted to defy the Sultans' orders because their appointments were not hereditary and their positions were transferable. The strict conditions imposed on their service, including limitations on revenue collection and army size, could have been resented, potentially leading to defiance.

Question 8

What was the impact of the Mongol invasions on the Delhi Sultanate?

Solution: The Mongol invasions had a significant impact on the Delhi Sultanate, prompting rulers like Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad Tughluq to mobilize large armies. Alauddin Khalji built a new garrison town at Siri and imposed heavy taxes (50% of peasant yield) to support his army, paying soldiers in cash. Muhammad Tughluq took drastic measures, including shifting the population of Delhi to Daulatabad, converting Delhi into a garrison town, disbanding the army at times, and also paying soldiers in cash. These actions reflect the immense administrative and economic challenges posed by the need for a strong defense against Mongol incursions.

Question 9

Do you think the authors of tawarikh would provide information about the lives of ordinary men and women?

Solution: It is unlikely that the authors of tawarikh would provide detailed information about the lives of ordinary men and women. These historians typically lived in cities, often in the Sultan's court, and wrote their histories for rulers and nobles, hoping for rewards. Their focus was usually on political events, courtly life, and the deeds of rulers, rather than the daily experiences of the common populace in villages or towns.

Question 10

Raziyya Sultan was unique in the history of the Delhi Sultanate. Do you think women leaders are accepted more readily today?

Solution: Yes, women leaders are generally accepted more readily today compared to the era of the Delhi Sultanate. The spread of education, increased awareness of gender equality, and societal progress have led to greater acceptance of women in leadership roles across various fields, including politics, business, and social organizations. We now see women holding significant positions, including in local governance like Sarpanches and Councillors.

Question 11

Why were the Delhi Sultans interested in cutting down forests? Does deforestation occur for the same reasons today?

Solution: The Delhi Sultans were interested in clearing forests primarily to promote agriculture. They gave the cleared lands in the Ganga-Yamuna doab to peasants to cultivate. Additionally, they established new fortresses and towns in these areas to protect trade routes and boost regional trade.

Today, deforestation occurs for different primary reasons, largely driven by overpopulation, rapid urbanization, and commercialization, leading to increased demand for land for housing, infrastructure, and industries, rather than solely for agricultural expansion or trade route protection.

Question 12

Find out whether there are many buildings built by the Delhi Sultans in your area. Are there any other buildings in your area that were built between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries? Describe some of these buildings, and draw sketches of them.

Solution: This question requires a local investigation. Students are encouraged to explore their own areas to identify any historical buildings from the Delhi Sultanate period (12th to 15th centuries). This could involve visiting local historical sites, museums, or consulting with local historians or elders. The task involves observing architectural styles, materials used, and the historical context of these structures, and then documenting these findings, possibly through sketches or written descriptions.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question VSQ 1

Who defeated the Tomara Rajputs and when?

Solution: The Chauhans, who were rulers from Ajmer, defeated the Tomara Rajputs in the middle of the 12th century, around the year 1160 CE.

Question VSQ 2

When did the Delhi Sultanate lag its foundation?

Solution: The foundation of the Delhi Sultanate was laid in the beginning of the thirteenth century, specifically in 1206 CE, with the establishment of the Mamluk (Early Turkish) dynasty.

Question VSQ 3

Name the five dynasties that together made the Delhi Sultanate.

Solution: The five dynasties that collectively formed the Delhi Sultanate, in chronological order, were:

Early Turkish rulers (also known as the Mamluk dynasty) from 1206 to 1290.
Khalji dynasty from 1290 to 1320.
Tughluq dynasty from 1320 to 1414.
Sayyid dynasty from 1414 to 1451.
Lodi dynasty from 1451 to 1526.

Common mistakes

Confusing the rulers responsible for the Sultanate's expansion.
Misinterpreting the 'internal' and 'external' frontiers.
Not fully understanding the 'circle of justice' concept.
Overlooking the reasons behind administrative decisions like deforestation or army mobilization.
Failing to recall the specific dynasties and their timelines.

Revision tips

Create a timeline of the five dynasties that ruled the Delhi Sultanate.
Summarize the key contributions or policies of prominent rulers like Alauddin Khalji and Muhammad Tughluq.
Explain the 'circle of justice' in your own words.
Compare and contrast the roles and challenges faced by muqtis.
Note down the origins of important travelers and their significance.

Practice MCQs

Q1. Who was the first ruler to establish their capital at Delhi?

Q2. What was the primary language of administration during the Delhi Sultanate?

Q3. During whose reign did the Delhi Sultanate reach its farthest territorial extent?

Q4. Ibn Battuta, a famous traveler who visited India, hailed from which region?

Q5. According to the 'circle of justice', why was it important for military commanders to consider the interests of the peasantry?

Q6. Which of the following is NOT one of the five dynasties that formed the Delhi Sultanate?

Frequently asked questions

Who were the first rulers to establish their capital at Delhi?

The Tomara Rajputs were the first rulers who established their capital at Delhi.

What language was used for administration by the Delhi Sultans?

The language of administration under the Delhi Sultans was Persian.

Which ruler expanded the Delhi Sultanate to its farthest extent?

The Sultanate reached its farthest extent during the reign of Muhammad Tughluq.

What is the significance of the 'circle of justice' mentioned in the chapter?

The 'circle of justice' highlighted the importance of military commanders keeping the interests of the peasantry in mind, as peasant prosperity was crucial for revenue generation and the stability of the kingdom.

Name the five dynasties that collectively formed the Delhi Sultanate.

The five dynasties were the Early Turkish rulers, Khalji dynasty, Tughluq dynasty, Sayyid dynasty, and Lodi dynasty.

Why did the Delhi Sultans clear forests?

The Delhi Sultans cleared forests primarily to encourage agriculture by giving the land to peasants and to establish new towns and fortresses to protect trade routes.

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