Mahmud Ghaznavi’s primary motive behind invading India was to acquire immense wealth from its temples and prosperous cities. He used this wealth to strengthen Ghazni and expand his power in Central Asia. Although he justified his campaigns in religious terms, his main intention was economic gain, not establishing permanent rule in India. ANSWER: (D) Obtaining funds to establish a large empire in Central Asia
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Mahmud Ghaznavi’s repeated invasions of India were driven mainly by his ambition to build a strong empire in Central Asia. Ghazni lacked the wealth needed to support a powerful army, so he targeted India’s rich temples and thriving cities. The gold, jewels, and other treasures he carried back financed new buildings, improved administration, and strengthened his military. Mahmud focused on quick raids rather than ruling Indian territories permanently. His campaigns also helped him gain prestige in the Islamic world as a defender of the faith, though economic motives remained central. These invasions changed regional politics and weakened many North Indian kingdoms.
ANSWER:
(D) Obtaining funds to establish a large empire in Central Asia