QUES . What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society? UPSC 2023 GS MAINS PAPER I, 250 words, 15 Marks

सल्तनत काल के दौरान किये गये बड़े तकनीकी बदलाव क्या थे? उन तकनीकी बदलावों ने भारतीय समाज को कैसे प्रभावित किया था?

HINTS:

The technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period had a profound impact on Indian society, promoting economic growth, cultural exchange, and urban development while contributing to the synthesis of diverse cultural elements.

Technological changes in agriculture:

In irrigation, Persian Wheel (Saqiyah or Rehat) was introduced. It improved water lifting and irrigation techniques, enabling more efficient cultivation of crops and increased agricultural productivity.

Sultans like Muhammad Bin Tughlaq also established many model farms to disseminate good agricultural techniques.

The ‘gaz-i-sikandari’ instrument was introduced which streamlined land measurement, making revenue collection more efficient.

Firoz Shah Tughlaq introduced many new techniques in horticulture, he founded nearly 1200 fruit
gardens.

Influence on the Indian society

The agricultural advancements played a crucial role in sustaining a growing population and supporting urbanization.

Technological changes in trade and craft:

Paper technology became important, as use of paper became important. Apart from Delhi Sultans,
regional rulers like Zain-ul-Abedin promoted bookbinding technique.

The Sultanate period saw advancements in the art of calligraphy, which influenced manuscript illustrations and the production of beautifully decorated manuscripts.

Glass technique improved due to influence from Middle East. Sultans promoted new techniques in leather production, carpet and shawls production, stone polishing.The advancements in calligraphy and metalworking enriched India’s artistic traditions.

Influence on the Indian society

The adoption of paper and bookbinding techniques facilitated education, culture, and administrative record-keeping. The technological changes in manuscript production and illustration helped in the preservation and documentation of historical texts and cultural knowledge, ensuring their transmission to future generations.The intricate metal artefacts and beautifully illustrated manuscripts became a source of pride and cultural expression.

Technological changes in textiles:

In cotton cloth production, Charkha (spinning wheel) and carder’s bow were introduced, increasing textile production.

The pit loom, introduced in the fifteenth century, accelerated weaving processes.

Rangsazi, coloring of cloth, became a prominent profession.

Sultans promoted the technique of sericulture.

The drawloom facilitated simultaneous patterned weaving with different colours.

Influence on the Indian society

The textile revolution made Indian textiles more competitive in the global market and led to the growth of new trading centres such as Surat and Ahmedabad.

Technological changes in military technique:

Significant advancements in military technology during the Sultanate period included the use of firearms, cannons, and matchlock muskets. Turks brought better horse-riding technique. Also, the Turkish archers used a bow, called Navik, with entirely new technique.

Influence on the Indian society

Technological changes in military technique helped in flourishing armour and weaponry production which in turn played a pivotal role in expanding the Indian empire, promoting political unity, and bringing peace and stability to society.

Technological changes in art and architecture:

Sultanate period saw the introduction of scientific methods of building arches and domes. A good example is Alai Darwaja constructed by Allauddin Khilji.

Compared to Indian style of using stones in buildings, muslims used bricks and gypsum as mortar or
binding material in construction technique. New materials like gypsum and lime paste improved building plastering in Architecture of the Delhi Sultanate .

Influence on the Indian society

The Indo-Islamic architectural styles introduced during the Sultanate period continue to influence Indian architecture today. Their legacy can be seen in the design of modern mosques, tombs, and government buildings. The blending of Indian and Islamic architectural elements and artistic styles created a unique cultural fusion. This fusion reflected the multicultural nature of Indian society during this period and contributed to the diversity of India’s cultural heritage.

Negative impact on the Indian society

While technological advancements contributed to economic growth, they also accentuated social disparities. The benefits of these changes were not equally distributed, leading to disparities in wealth and living conditions. The architectural developments also marginalised the indigenous traditions.

Thus the technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period had a profound impact on Indian society, influencing various aspects of life, such as agriculture, textiles, military, and architecture.

External link: https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/20185/1/Unit-22.pdf