[Solved] Extent of Ashoka's Empire | Sites Not Included

Which one territory of the following was not a part of Ashoka's empire?

[42nd B.P.S.C. (Pre) 1997]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

While Ashoka’s cultural and religious influence (Dhamma) was vast, his direct administrative borders had specific limits in the South.

Authentic Source Evidence

Ashoka’s edicts (Major Rock Edict II and XIII) list Sri Lanka (Tamraparni) as a neighboring kingdom with which he had friendly relations, not as a part of his direct administration.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Afghanistan (A) was ceded by Seleucus to Chandragupta; Bihar (B) was the heartland; Kalinga (D) was conquered by Ashoka himself.

Logic 2: The extreme south of India and Sri Lanka remained sovereign 'Pratyantas' (neighboring states).

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"Who did Ashoka send to Sri Lanka to spread Buddhism?"

He sent his son Mahendra and daughter Sanghamitra to the court of King Tissa of Sri Lanka.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The distinction between Ashoka's 'empire of land' and 'empire of influence' is clearly seen in his relations with Sri Lanka."

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