The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Mauryan Empire was administered through a centralized system with the imperial capital at Pataliputra and four major provincial centres: Taxila, Ujjain, Tosali, and Suvarnagiri. These cities were strategically selected to oversee vast regions and control critical trade routes.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: Taxila (Takshashila) was the provincial capital of the northwestern region. It functioned as a strategic gateway to the northwest, connecting the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia and facilitating overland trade.
- Statement 2 is Correct: Ujjain was the capital of the western province (Avantiratha). It was situated on the vital trade route connecting North India to South India, serving as a major commercial and administrative hub.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: Merchants, officials, and craftspersons were not confined to Pataliputra. They resided in all major provincial centres (such as Taxila and Ujjain) and other towns to facilitate administration, trade, and revenue collection throughout the empire.
Key Takeaway:
The Mauryan administration relied on strategic provincial capitals like Taxila (gateway to the northwest) and Ujjain (north-south connector) to integrate the empire economically and politically; administrative and commercial classes were present across these urban centres, not just the capital.