Iqta Land-Grant System

Timeline

1. 1211–1266Delhi · DelhiSultan Iltutmish systematized the previous dynasty's land-grant practices into the iqta system: granting officials revenue rights over villages or districts, specifying tribute proportions and military service obligations, replacing the trend toward hereditary fiefs.
2. 1266–1287Delhi Sultanate · IndiaSultan Balban strengthened iqta rotation and inspection, restricted hereditary succession by iqta holders, and required them to attend court at Delhi regularly and report on taxation, in order to curb local separatism and consolidate sultanate authority.
3. 1331–1340Delhi Sultanate · IndiaDuring Muhammad bin Tughluq's reign, the iqta system supported his large-scale southern campaigns and currency reform experiments; the center controlled local taxation through appointing and transferring iqta holders, but overexpansion also aggravated administrative burdens and the risk of rebellion.