Who was the first ruler to use stone surfaces for inscriptions to convey his messages to his subjects and officials?

Asoka

The correct answer is Option (2) → Asoka

Asoka was the first ruler who inscribed his messages to his subjects and officials on stone surfaces – natural rocks as well as polished pillars. He used the inscriptions to proclaim what he understood to be dhamma. This included respect towards elders, generosity towards Brahmanas and those who renounced worldly life, treating slaves and servants kindly, and respect for religions and traditions other than one’s own.