Step 1: Concept
Kaniska was a prominent ruler of the Kushan Empire during the 1st century CE. He is known for his military conquests and expansion of the empire.
Step 2: Meaning
The question asks about specific events related to Kaniska’s military campaigns, focusing on the correctness of certain statements regarding his conquests.
Step 3: Analysis
Let's examine each option in detail:
A) Kaniska's first conquest was Kashmir.
Historical records do not support this claim. Kaniska is known to have expanded his empire significantly but there is no evidence that his initial conquest was Kashmir.
B) He waged war against the Saka.
This statement is correct. Kaniska did indeed wage war against the Saka, a rival dynasty in western India and Pakistan during his reign.
C) He conquered Kashger, Yarkand & Khotan.
These regions were part of the Kushan Empire's expansion under Kaniska. His conquests extended to these areas, making this statement accurate.
D) He killed Rudrasimha II.
There is no historical evidence supporting that Kaniska personally killed Rudrasimha II. However, it is known that Kaniska defeated Rudrasimha II and annexed his territories, which aligns with the broader context of his conquests.
E) He fought against the confederacy of rulers of Vanga (Bengal).
Historical records indicate that Kaniska did indeed fight against a confederation of rulers in Bengal. This is supported by archaeological findings and historical texts.
Step 4: Conclusion
Based on the analysis, options B, D, and E are correct statements about Kaniska's conquests.
Final Answer: (C)