Iltutmish understood that the Doab — the fertile belt between the Ganga and Yamuna — was crucial to the Sultanate’s wealth and stability. Control over this region meant dependable agricultural revenue, a steady grain supply for the capital and a secure resource base for maintaining an army. Consequently, he placed administrative emphasis on consolidating authority there, improving land revenue arrangements and ensuring loyal local governance. This economic foresight helped stabilize the early Sultanate’s finances and allowed subsequent rulers to fund campaigns and public works. Iltutmish’s strategic focus on the Doab laid the groundwork for later administrative and fiscal policies in northern India.