RAS question
Ashoka's Rock Edict II mentions the provision of:
Correct answer: (C) Medical treatment for humans and animals.
Ashoka's Rock Edict II records provision for medical treatment for both humans and animals.
Explanation
Rock Edict II is about welfare measures, not education, trade or military policy. In the edict, Beloved-of-the-Gods, King Piyadasi, records provision for two kinds of medical treatment: one for humans and one for animals. The measure operated within his own domain and also among neighbouring peoples such as the Cholas, Pandyas, Satiyaputras and Keralaputras. Medical herbs, roots and fruits were imported and grown where they were unavailable, and wells were dug and trees planted along roads for the benefit of humans and animals.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Free education is wrong because Rock Edict II concerns medical treatment and related welfare measures, not schooling or instruction.
- (B) Trade routes is wrong because the road-related detail in the edict concerns wells and trees for public and animal welfare, not commerce.
- (D) Military training is wrong because the edict's focus is medical care for humans and animals, with no reference to armed preparation.
Concept
This tests Mauryan administration through Ashoka's major rock edicts, especially how dhamma translated into public welfare measures. It recurs in RAS because edict-based questions link ancient Indian polity, inscriptions and welfare policy in one factual item.