Q. Consider the following statements regarding Kanishka:
1.He started the Shaka era.
2.The third Buddhist council held in his time period.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[A] 1 only

[B] 2 only

[C] Both 1 and 2

[D] Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A
Notes:

Explanation: Started the Shaka era (78 CE), which is accepted as the beginning of his reign, and which is now used by the Government of India for its calendar.

  • The probable explanation as to why the name Shaka era and not Kushana era probably lies in the belief that either Kanishka was mistakenly considered a Shaka, or that the era was in continuous use throughout the reigns of the Shakas kshatrapas of Western India, who acknowledged the overlordship of the Kushanas.
  • Held the fourth Buddhist council at Kundalavana (near Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir) under the presidency of Vasumitra. Kanishka was a great patron of Buddhism.

Source: Tamil Nadu NCERT