Consider the following statements: **Assertion (A):** Alauddin's Deccan expeditions were financial ventures. **Reason (R):** He wanted to annex the Deccan States. ** Code:**
U.P.P.C.S. (Pre) 1997
A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.
Answer: (A) is true, but (R) is false.
Option c is the correct answer.
Assertion (A) is true: Alauddin Khalji's Deccan policy was driven by the pursuit of wealth, strategic gains, and power consolidation. Expeditions led by commanders like Malik Kafur aimed to acquire vast treasures from kingdoms like Devagiri, Warangal, and Hoysala. Tribute collection, economic relief, and showcasing military might were key motives, enhancing Delhi Sultanate's resources and influence in southern territories. Reason (R) is False: Alauddin Khalji did not want to annex the Deccan states. While he did conduct military expeditions in the Deccan, his primary goal was to extract wealth and establish tributary relationships, not outright annexation. The expeditions were motivated by financial gains, strategic influence, and consolidation of power rather than full territorial absorption.