Which ruler introduced 'Patta' and 'Qabuliyat' in Land Deeds ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3:
Sher Shah Suri (1540–1545 CE), the founder of the Sur Empire, is famously credited with introducing the sophisticated land revenue administration system that included the documents 'Patta' and 'Qabuliyat'. Sher Shah recognized the need for a direct and transparent relationship between the state and the cultivators (peasants). The 'Patta' (title deed or engagement letter) was a document issued by the state to the cultivator, specifying the area of land under cultivation and the specific amount of revenue (tax) the farmer had to pay. In return, the 'Qabuliyat' (agreement deed or acceptance paper) was a document signed by the peasant, accepting the revenue liability stated in the Patta. These two deeds eliminated the ambiguity caused by intermediate revenue collectors (Zamindars) and helped curb corruption, making Sher Shah's revenue system one of the most efficient and beneficial for the peasantry, which later heavily influenced Akbar’s famous revenue system.

The incorrect option is 1:
Alauddin Khilji (1296–1316 CE) was known for agrarian reforms, such as measuring land (Masahat) and collecting revenue directly from peasants, but he did not introduce the specific system of Patta and Qabuliyat. His reforms focused primarily on fixing land tax rates at half the produce and controlling the market prices in Delhi.

The incorrect option is 2:
Mohammed Tughlaq (1325–1351 CE) undertook several experimental projects, including efforts to enhance agriculture, but his rule was often marked by administrative turmoil and failed policies. While he implemented temporary revenue enhancements, he did not establish the standardized and formalized 'Patta' and 'Qabuliyat' documentation system.

The incorrect option is 4:
Akbar (1556–1605 CE) did implement a highly effective land revenue system known as the Zabti or Todar Mal's Bandobast. While Akbar’s system refined and vastly improved upon many pre-existing practices, the foundation of the 'Patta' and 'Qabuliyat' was laid down earlier by his predecessor, Sher Shah Suri.