The correct answer is (a) Bhawani Shah.
Bhawani Shah was the first Gorkha ruler of Kumaun. He ascended the throne in 1791 and ruled until his death in 1804. During his reign, he undertook a number of reforms, including the introduction of a new land settlement system. This system was based on the principle of individual ownership of land, and it was designed to increase agricultural production and revenue.
The other options are incorrect. Kirti Shah was the son of Bhawani Shah and ruled Kumaun from 1804 to 1814. Jogamall Shah was the brother of Bhawani Shah and ruled Kumaun for a brief period in 1814. Fateh Shah was the son of Kirti Shah and ruled Kumaun from 1814 to 1815.
The land settlement system introduced by Bhawani Shah was a significant reform that had a lasting impact on Kumaun. It helped to improve the lives of the people and to promote economic development.