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SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 78

SSC CHSL - 15 Nov 2025 - Shift 3 • General Awareness • Q78

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In early sixteenth-century, which ruler was known for the effective use of cannons in battles?

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Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 4: Babur.
Explanation:

  • At the beginning of the 16th century, the credit for the first effective and widespread use of gunpowder and artillery on the battlefield in India goes to Babur, the founder of the Mughal Empire.
  • First Battle of Panipat (1526): In this historic battle, Babur made formidable use of artillery against Ibrahim Lodi. Although Lodi's army vastly outnumbered his own, it could not withstand the power of Babur's artillery and superior military strategy.
  • Ustad Ali and Mustafa: These were Babur's two principal gunners, who played a pivotal role in the Battles of Panipat and Khanwa.
  • Tulughma System: Alongside his artillery, Babur employed his distinctive military strategy known as 'Tulughma,' which enabled him to encircle the enemy and subject them to heavy bombardment.

Other Significant Battles Associated with Babur (For Revision):

  • The chronological order of these battles is frequently asked in competitive examinations:
  • First Battle of Panipat (1526): Defeated Ibrahim Lodi (Establishment of the Mughal Empire).
  • Battle of Khanwa (1527): Defeated Rana Sanga.
  • Battle of Chanderi (1528): Defeated Medini Rai.
  • Battle of Ghagra (1529): Defeated the Afghan forces.

Additional Information (Analysis of Other Options):

  • Alauddin Khilji (Option 1): He was a ruler of the 13th–14th centuries. While he implemented military reforms (such as the *Dagh*—branding of horses—and *Huliya*—descriptive roll of soldiers—systems), the use of artillery did not exist during his era.
  • Sher Shah Suri (Option 2): He defeated Humayun in 1540 and ruled over North India. The use of artillery advanced further during his reign, but its introduction was pioneered by Babur.
  • Ibrahim Lodi (Option 3): He was the last Sultan of the Delhi Sultanate. It was solely due to Babur's cannons that they faced defeat in the Battle of Panipat.

Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: In which battle did Babur use artillery for the first time in India?
Answer: The First Battle of Panipat (1526).
Question: What were the names of Babur's two famous artillerymen?
Answer: Ustad Ali and Mustafa.
Question: After which battle was the foundation of the Mughal Empire laid in India?
Answer: The First Battle of Panipat.