The question asks to identify the special officers appointed by Ashoka to propagate Dhamma. This requires knowledge of the administrative reforms and religious policies of Emperor Ashoka during the Mauryan period.
C) Dhamma Mahamatta were special officers appointed by Ashoka to spread the message of Dhamma. They were responsible for propagating Dhamma among various social groups, ensuring its observance, and looking after the welfare of different religious sects.
The question asks about the administrative structure of the Mauryan military as described by Megasthenes. To answer this, one needs to recall Megasthenes' account of the Mauryan administration, specifically concerning military organization.
D) Six — Megasthenes explicitly states that the Mauryan military was coordinated by a board of 30 officials, divided into six subcommittees, each with five members.
The question asks about the strength of the Mauryan army as described by Greek sources. This requires knowledge of historical accounts from that period, specifically those related to the Mauryan Empire and its military.
Megasthenes, in his Indica (as quoted by Diodorus Siculus, Arrian, and Strabo), described the Mauryan army as consisting of 600,000 foot-soldiers, 30,000 cavalry, and 9,000 elephants. This formidable force was a key factor in the Mauryan Empire's expansion and control over a vast territory.
A) 600,000 foot-soldiers, 30,000 cavalry, 9,000 elephants. This option accurately reflects the figures commonly cited by Greek sources regarding the strength of the Mauryan army, particularly during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya.
The question asks for the location of the ancient Sudarshana Lake. This is a factual question related to ancient Indian history and geography. Recalling the historical context of the lake's construction and repairs will lead to the correct state.
Correct Option: B) The Sudarshana Lake was located in the Saurashtra region, which is in present-day Gujarat. Its history is well-documented by inscriptions found in Junagadh, Gujarat.
The question asks about the original construction period of the Sudarshana Lake. This requires knowledge of ancient Indian history, specifically the chronology of major dynasties and their significant architectural or engineering contributions.
Correct Option: D) The Mauryas. The Sudarshana Lake in Gujarat was originally constructed during the reign of Chandragupta Maurya, the founder of the Mauryan Empire, by his governor Pushyagupta. This fact is well-documented in historical inscriptions, most notably the Junagadh rock inscription of Rudradaman I.
To determine the approximate duration of the Mauryan Empire, we need to recall its founding year and its dissolution year. The difference between these two dates will give us the total approximate duration.
Correct Option: C) 150 years