Mauryan Epigraphy

Ashoka's Major Rock Edicts: Locations and States | History

Dhauli and Erragudi are correctly matched with Odisha and Andhra Pradesh respectively. Jaugada is in Odisha and Kalsi is in Uttarakhand.

Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History

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Consider the following pairs: Site of Ashoka's major rock edicts Location in the State of
1. Dhauli: Odisha
2. Erragudi: Andhra Pradesh
3. Jaugada: Madhya Pradesh
4. Kalsi: Karnataka
How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

[UPSC CSE Pre 2022]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept


Ashoka's edicts were strategic inscriptions across his empire to propagate 'Dhamma' and administrative policies using local scripts and languages.

Authentic Source Evidence


Dhauli and Jaugada are both located in Odisha. Erragudi is situated in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. Kalsi is located in Uttarakhand, representing the northernmost set of major rock edicts.

Analytical Breakdown


  • Logic 1: Pair 1 is correct (Dhauli, Odisha). Pair 2 is correct (Erragudi, Andhra Pradesh).

  • Logic 2: Pair 3 is incorrect as Jaugada is in Odisha, not Madhya Pradesh. Pair 4 is incorrect as Kalsi is in Uttarakhand, not Karnataka.

  • Logic 3: Therefore, exactly two pairs (1 and 2) are correctly matched.
  • Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

    "What was the primary purpose of placing edicts on major trade routes?"

    To ensure the message of Dhamma reached the maximum number of people, including travelers and traders.

    Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

    "The distribution of Ashokan edicts provides a clear map of the vast extent of the Mauryan administrative and cultural influence."

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