The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The preservation of Jain canonical texts (Agamas) involved a long period of oral transmission (Shruti) before they were systematically compiled and committed to writing during specific councils.
Statement 1 is Correct:
The teachings of Lord Mahavira were transmitted orally for several centuries after his Nirvana. The original texts, known as the Purvas, were preserved in the memory of monks. Due to the strict ascetic nature of the monks and the lack of a written tradition initially, much of this knowledge was gradually lost or remembered only by a few.
Statement 2 is Correct:
The Jain teachings were finally compiled and written down in their present form at the Second Jain Council held at Valabhi (Gujarat) in the 5th or 6th century CE (approximately 1500 years ago). This council was presided over by Devardhi Kshamashramana. This event marked the formal codification of the Svetambara canon.
Statement 3 is Incorrect:
Jainism did not remain confined to the Gangetic valley; it spread to South India as early as the 4th century BCE. According to Jain tradition, the monk Bhadrabahu, accompanied by the Mauryan Emperor Chandragupta Maurya, migrated to Shravanabelagola (in present-day Karnataka) to escape a severe famine in Magadha. This migration was pivotal in establishing the Digambara sect in South India.
Key Takeaway:
Jain literature (Agamas) was orally transmitted for centuries and codified at the Valabhi Council (approx. 512 CE). The religion spread to South India during the Mauryan period under the leadership of Bhadrabahu.