Option a is the correct answer. The earliest royal order to preserve food-grains to be utilized during the crisis in the country is found in the Sohgaura Copper-plate inscription. This inscription, discovered in Sohgaura, Uttar Pradesh, is believed to date back to the period of Ashoka or possibly even earlier. It mentions the establishment of two grain depots to store commodities from different regions as a measure to combat famine and crisis, making it an early example of food-grain preservation in India. Important Tips Iron pillar of Delhi (Mehrauli Pillar): The historic Mehrauli Iron Pillar, originally situated near the Beas River, was moved to Delhi by a Delhi king. Mehrauli inscription praises the Gupta emperor Chandragupta Vikramaditya's achievements. It dates from the late fourth to early fifth century A.D and presently situated in the Qutb Mosque's courtyard. It is thought to have had the emblem of the mythical bird Garuda, the Guptas' symbol, at the top, but it is now missing. Over 1600 years old, it remains rust-free and a testament to ancient India's engineering prowess. The Allahabad Pillar Inscription (Prayag Prasasti): The Allahabad Pillar Inscription is situated at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers, lending its name from "Prayag." Prashasti, signifying praise, was initially inscribed on the Kausambhi Ashokan Pillar, later moved to Allahabad fort. This Ashokan Stambh showcases four inscriptions, including standard Ashokan ones, a Queen's edict praising Kaurwaki's charity, Samudragupta's conquest inscriptions in Sanskrit and Brahmi, and Jahangir's Persian inscriptions.