Explanation: The Chola dynasty, which flourished from the 9th to the 13th century, was one of the most powerful and influential empires in South India. The Cholas were known for their military prowess and their ability to expand their territory both on land and across the seas. Their conquests across the Bay of Bengal were primarily due to two key factors: their strong military and naval power, and their efficient system of local self-government.
Firstly, the Cholas had a formidable army and navy. Their military strength was a significant factor in their ability to conquer and maintain control over vast territories. The Chola navy was particularly noteworthy, as it allowed them to establish and maintain trade routes and conquer territories across the Bay of Bengal. The Cholas were able to establish a strong presence in Southeast Asia, including Sri Lanka, parts of Malaysia, and Indonesia. Their naval power was crucial in these conquests, as it provided them with the means to project their military strength across the seas.
Secondly, the Cholas had an efficient system of local self-government, which was essential for maintaining control over their vast empire. The Chola administration was characterized by a well-organized system of local governance, known as the Sabha and Ur. These local bodies were responsible for the administration of villages and towns, and they played a crucial role in maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and managing local resources. This system of local self-government helped to ensure that the Chola Empire was stable and well-administered, which in turn supported their military conquests.
While the Cholas were indeed good administrators, this alone does not fully explain their conquests across the Bay of Bengal. The combination of their strong military and naval power, along with their efficient system of local self-government, was the key to their success in expanding their empire. Therefore, the correct answer is (D) Only (A) & (B), as both factors were essential in the Cholas' conquests across the Bay of Bengal.