Option a is the correct answer. India's first hospital and herbal gardens were established by Ashoka, the Mauryan emperor. Ashoka's interest in healthcare and well-being is evident from his edicts, particularly the Rock Edict No. 2. In this edict, Ashoka emphasizes the importance of providing medical care to both humans and animals. He directed the establishment of hospitals, medical dispensaries, and medical treatment centers across his empire. These institutions were meant to provide medical aid, treatment, and care to the sick and injured.