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GS Paper IUPSC Prelims 1997
Delhi Sultanate
Question No. 26Interactive Test Mode
00:00
+2-0.66

Q26. After consolidating his power, Balban assumed the grand title of:

After consolidating his power, Balban assumed the grand title of:

Select the correct option below (or cross out options to eliminate)
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Official Answer Key & Detailed Solution

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Official UPSC Answer KeyUPSC Prelims 1997 • Medieval History

Correct Answer: Option (C) — Zil-I-Ilahi

Concept & Option Breakdown

Standard Reference Verified
  • Ghiyas-ud-din Balban (1266–1287 AD) formulated a strict theory of divine kingship to elevate the monarch's majesty above the Turkish nobility (Chahalgani).
  • He assumed the title Zil-i-Ilahi (The Shadow of God on Earth) and claimed kingship to be Niyabat-i-Khudai (Vice-regency of God), while instituting court protocols like Sijda (prostration) and Paibos (kissing the monarch's feet).
Elimination Heuristic & Exam Approach

Balban's monarchical theory: 'Zil-i-Ilahi' (Shadow of God) and 'Niyabat-i-Khudai' (Deputyship of God).

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Question Specifications & Syllabus Mapping

Examination & YearUPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 1997 (Q26)
Paper & Marking SchemeGS Paper I • 2 Marks (-0.66 Negative for incorrect response)
Syllabus Subject & TopicMedieval History → Delhi Sultanate
Official Answer KeyOption (C) — Zil-I-Ilahi

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Frequently Asked Questions — UPSC Prelims 1997 Q26

What is the official answer for UPSC Prelims 1997 GS Paper I Question 26 (Medieval History)?

The official UPSC answer key for this 1997 Medieval History (Delhi Sultanate) question is Option (C): "Zil-I-Ilahi". Correct attempts carry 2 Marks with -0.66 Negative penalty for wrong answers.

Which UPSC Prelims syllabus topic does this 1997 question belong to?

This question belongs to GS Paper I under the subject "Medieval History" and micro-topic "Delhi Sultanate". You can explore all repeated questions from Delhi Sultanate in Acme AI's 3D Prelims PYQ Realm or practice 50 full-length and sectional tests in the APT Prelims Test Series.

How can I solve this Delhi Sultanate UPSC Prelims question using option elimination?

Balban's monarchical theory: 'ZiliIlahi' (Shadow of God) and 'NiyabatiKhudai' (Deputyship of God).

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