Q. With reference to Samudragupta, consider the following statements-

1. Allahabad pillar inscription mentions the details of victory campaigns of Samudragupta.

2. The Gupta empire under Samudragupta was more extensive than that of the Mauryas.

Which of the given statements above is/are correct?

a) only 1

b) only 2

c) both 1 and 2

d) neither 1, nor 2

Ans. (a)

Explanation – Ashokan pillar inscription, received from Allahabad, mentions about Samudragupta's victories. This inscription was written by Samudragupta's court poet Harishena. Samudragupta conquered a large area of India but area of his empire was less than that of the Maurya Empire.