What were the major technological changes introduced during the Sultanate period? How did those technological changes influence the Indian society?

Gaz-i-sikandari

• Introduction of the Persian wheel substantially increased agricultural productivity. 
• It evolutionized irrigation, allowing farmers to cultivate larger areas and grow more diverse crops.
• The increased yield contributed to surplus food production, trade, and economic prosperity in medieval India.
• The ‘gaz-i-sikandari’  was an instrument for measuring land which made revenue collection more efficient.

• The use of the spinning wheel increased the production of yarn by six times. 
• Pit loom was introduced in India during the fifteenth century, which speeded up the process of weaving.
• Drawloom was another important weaving device which was used for simultaneous patterned weave of different colours.
• These innovations bolstered the textile industry, creating employment opportunities and a flourishing trade network.
• Regions like Gujarat became renowned for their intricate textiles, attracting traders from afar.

• Advanced mining techniques improved metal production, benefiting toolmaking and weaponry. 
• The Delhi Sultanate’s armor and weaponry production thrived due to these innovations which led them to form vast Indian empire and this political unity provided peace and stability thus benifiting society.

• Knowledge Dissemination: The adoption of paper and bookbinding techniques facilitated the spread of education, culture, and administrative record-keeping.
• The era of record keeping and Historiography started in India with the advent of the Delhi Sultanate.
• Paper was more durable and long lasting then birch bark.
• Persian and Arabic texts were translated into local languages, broadening access to literature and learning.

• Culinary Diversity: Wine distillation diversified culinary practices, leading to the creation of various alcoholic beverages.
• Example: Distilled spirits like arak and arrack became popular regional drinks.
• This also increased revenue for the state but at the same it also caused more chaos in the society. So much so that, Alludin Khilji attempted to ban liquor consumption in his empire.

• Economic Flourishing: Bengal’s silk and muslin production boosted its economy and trade connections. 
• The exquisite Bengali muslin textiles were in high demand globally, enriching both Bengal and India’s medieval trade.
• It flourished so much in medieval times that when Europeans came to India, Bengal was the richest provine of India.

• Arcuate style of architecture started in india also known as Indo-Islamic architecture. 
• Architectural Fusion: Indo-Islamic architecture combined Islamic and Indian styles, seen in structures like the Qutub Minar.
• Innovative Features: The use of arches, domes, and intricate geometric patterns influenced Indian architecture.
• Societal Integration: It promoted cultural and religious exchange, exemplified by structures like the Taj Mahal.
• Urban Planning: Cities like Delhi showcased grid-like layouts and grand mosques. This became prototype for development of other cities.
• Symbol of Power: Monumental buildings became symbols of political and cultural authority in medieval India.
• Example: The Qutub Minar and Alai Darwaza in Delhi exemplify the architectural grandeur of the Delhi Sultanate period.