Who founded the Diwan-i-Khairat ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 1:

The Diwan-i-Khairat, which literally translates to the "Department of Charity," was founded by Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq (1351–1388 CE). Firoz Shah Tughlaq is historically renowned for his extensive public works and humanitarian policies, which made his reign distinct from his predecessors. This specific department was created to address the needs of the poor and the marginalized, particularly poor Muslim women, orphans, and widows. Its main function was to arrange for the marriage of poor Muslim girls by providing financial assistance, as well as offering monetary relief to the needy. The establishment of Diwan-i-Khairat exemplifies Firoz Shah’s focus on social welfare and making the state administration more benevolent.

The incorrect option is 2 (Mohammad Tughlaq): Muhammad bin Tughlaq (1325–1351 CE), known for his controversial administrative experiments like the transfer of the capital and the introduction of token currency, focused more on military campaigns and theoretical administrative reforms, rather than establishing large-scale charitable departments like the Diwan-i-Khairat.

The incorrect option is 3 (Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq): Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq (1320–1325 CE) was the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty. His short reign was primarily concerned with restoring order and finances after the chaotic end of the Khalji dynasty, and he is not credited with founding the Diwan-i-Khairat.

The incorrect option is 4 (Balban): Balban (1266–1287 CE) was a powerful ruler of the Mamluk dynasty (Slave Dynasty). His policies were centered on consolidating the sultanate, restoring the prestige of the crown through stern measures (like the theory of Kingship, *Sijda* and *Paibos*), and suppressing revolts, not on large charitable institutions such as the Diwan-i-Khairat.