Alauddin Khilji was a powerful and efficient ruler who implemented various reforms in administration during his reign. The following are the administrative reforms introduced by him:
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Centralized administration: Alauddin Khilji set up a strong central government and was the highest authority of the state. He considered himself a representative of God or "Shadow of God" and restricted matrimonial relations among nobles and officers. He also prohibited secret meetings and parties and appointed spies to keep an eye on them. He tried to confiscate their excess wealth and prohibited wine and gambling.
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Administration free from the influence of the ulemas: Alauddin Khilji was opposed to the interference of the Ulemas in matters of state. The law was to depend upon the will of the monarch and had nothing to do with the law of the Prophet. He appointed trusted ministers to assist him in the running of administration. Their advice was in no way binding on the Sultan.
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Provincial administration: Alauddin Khilji was relentless and unflinching in administering justice. The Sultan was the fountain of justice and the highest court of appeal. He appointed governors to look after the provinces. The Sultan was the final authority in all matters.
In addition to these administrative reforms, Alauddin Khilji introduced the scientific method of measurement of land for the assessment of land revenue and imposed heavy taxes. He also made taxation from the produce of the land instead of the land itself and abolished religious endowments, Inams (gift) lands, and subsidies.
