Assertion (A): According to Asoka's edicts social harmony among the people was more important than religious devotion. Reason (R): He spread ideas of equity instead of promotion of religion.

1. The question presents an Assertion (A) and a Reason (R) regarding Asoka's edicts and policies. 2. Assertion (A): States that according to Asoka's edicts, social harmony among people was more important than religious devotion. This is true. Asoka's policy of Dhamma emphasized ethical conduct, tolerance, respect for elders, and harmonious coexistence (social harmony) over ritualistic practices (religious devotion). 3. Reason (R): States that he spread ideas of equity instead of promotion of religion. This is also true. Asoka promoted Dhamma, which encompassed principles like non-violence, tolerance, and welfare, aiming for equity and ethical living across different religious communities, rather than promoting one specific religion. 4. Connection: Spreading ideas of equity and ethical conduct (R) was the means by which Asoka aimed to achieve social harmony, which he prioritized over purely religious devotion (A). 5. Therefore, both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A. 6. This corresponds to option (A).