The correct answer is: d) All of the above.
The Mauryan Empire was a powerful Indian empire that existed from 321 to 185 BCE. It was founded by Chandragupta Maurya, who united much of the Indian subcontinent under his rule. The Mauryan Empire was a centralized state with a strong bureaucracy. It had a large standing army and a network of trade routes. These factors helped the Mauryan Empire to maintain control over Punjab.
A centralized administration is a system of government in which power is concentrated in the hands of a central authority. This can be achieved through a variety of means, such as a strong monarchy, a powerful bureaucracy, or a military dictatorship. A centralized administration can be effective in maintaining control over a large territory because it allows for the efficient coordination of resources and policies.
A large standing army is a military force that is always in existence, as opposed to a militia or conscript army that is only raised in times of war. A large standing army can be used to deter aggression, suppress rebellion, and enforce the will of the government. It can also be used to project power and influence beyond the borders of the state.
A network of trade routes is a system of roads, rivers, and other means of transportation that connect different parts of a region or country. Trade routes are important for the movement of goods and people, and they can also be used to spread ideas and culture. A network of trade routes can be a valuable asset for a state, as it can help to stimulate economic growth and promote cultural exchange.
In the case of the Mauryan Empire, all of these factors played a role in helping the empire to maintain control over Punjab. The Mauryans had a strong centralized administration, a large standing army, and a network of trade routes. These factors helped to make the Mauryan Empire one of the most powerful empires in Indian history.