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Ashoka, the greatest ruler of the Mauryan Empire was the son of Bindusara and he succeeded to the throne after his father.
He was the first ruler who took messages to the people through his inscriptions.
After his accession to the throne, the Kalinga war was the only war that he fought.
As he was moved by the massacre of the Kalinga war, he gave up the idea of conquest by war and followed conquest by dhamma.
He shifted his political philosophy to Dhammavijaya meaning "victory through dharma,".
Ashoka was converted to Buddhism. The third Buddist council was held by him and he also sent missionaries to south India, Sri Lanka, Burma and many other countries.
The decline of the Maurya Empire started after Ashoka. Hence, the Assertion is correct.

It marked a transition from conquering territories through violence to a focus on moral conquest and internal social and spiritual well-being.

Ahimsa (non-violence): This meant renouncing war and bloodshed in favor of ethical conduct and resolving conflicts peacefully. Ashoka actively discouraged hunting and animal sacrifice. However, there is no evidence that he disbanded his army completely. Hence, the Reason is incorrect.
Dharma: Upholding righteous living based on principles like honesty, compassion, kindness, respect for elders, and tolerance towards all religions.
Social harmony: Promoting social welfare by improving the lives of all citizens, regardless of their caste or background. This included advocating for proper treatment of servants, slaves, and Brahmins.
Religious tolerance: Creating a space for peaceful coexistence between different religious sects like Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains.

Correct Answer