Correct Answer: Option 2 (a - ii, b - iii, c - i, d - iv)
Detailed Explanation:
Scientific and intellectual contributions of 18th-century Indian rulers:
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a. The Peshwas (ii. Had European doctors and scholars in the court):
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During the Peshwa period (notably under Nana Phadnavis and Sawai Madhavrao), European physicians, surveyors, and scholars were engaged at Pune (e.g., Dr. Findlay).
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b. Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II (iii. Asked the Portuguese king to send Portuguese astronomers):
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The ruler of Amber/Jaipur was an accomplished astronomer and mathematician.
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He built five famous astronomical observatories ('Jantar Mantar') at Delhi, Jaipur, Ujjain, Mathura, and Varanasi.
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He deputed an embassy to King Emmanuel of Portugal and invited Jesuit astronomers (including Father Emmanuel de Figueiredo) to assist in his astronomical observations.
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c. Raghunath Navalkar (Newalkar) (i. Built a Library of English books and a Laboratory for scientific experiments):
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Subedar Raghunathrao Newalkar of Jhansi was deeply attracted to Western science, setting up a rich English library and experimental laboratory.
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d. Raja Sarfoji II of Tanjore (iv. Learnt English and wrote well in the language):
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The Maratha ruler of Thanjavur (Tanjore), Serfoji II (1798–1832), was a noted polymath educated by Christian Friedrich Schwarz.
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He mastered English, wrote literary works in English, developed medicine, and expanded the world-renowned Saraswathi Mahal Library.
Remember Sawai Jai Singh's astronomical treatise *Zij-i Muhammad Shahi* and Serfoji II's development of the Saraswathi Mahal Library at Thanjavur as recurring MPSC history facts.
