Read the following excerpt and answer the questions that follow:

"Since Alauddin wanted to maintain a large army, he therefore, lowered and fixed the price of the commodities of daily use. To control the prices, Alauddin set up three different markets for different commodities in Delhi. These markets were the grain market (Mandi), cloth market (Sarai Adl) and the market for horses, slaves, cattles, etc."

(Source: https://www.nios.ac.in/media/documents/SrSec315NEW/315HistoryEng/315HistoryEng_Lesson9.pdf)

(a) What measures did Alauddin Khalji take to control markets and prices?

(b) Why was the establishment of Shahana-i-Mandi significant for market regulation?

(c) How did Alauddin Khalji ensure the availability of essential commodities to the people?

(a) Alauddin Khalji took several measures to control markets and prices, including:

1. Fixing the Prices: He lowered and fixed the prices of essential commodities to ensure they remained affordable.
2. Setting Up Different Markets: He established three distinct markets in Delhi to regulate different types of goods:
   1. Grain Market (Mandi)
   2. Cloth Market (Sarai Adl)
   3. Market for Horses, Slaves, Cattle, etc.

(b) The establishment of Shahana-i-Mandi was significant because it helped in overseeing and enforcing the regulation of prices in the markets. This system ensured that merchants adhered to the fixed prices, preventing them from exploiting the public and helping to maintain market stability.

(c) Alauddin Khalji ensured the availability of essential commodities by lowering their prices and maintaining a large stock of goods. This helped in stabilizing supply and made sure that essential items were always accessible to the people.