PPSC Excise and Taxation Inspector 2018 Question Paper

Answer: D - Battle of Gujarat

Explanation:

• The Battle of Gujarat (1849) fought on 21 February 1849 is called the "Battle of Guns" because the British deployed an overwhelming artillery force of 100 guns which decisively crushed the Sikh army.
• It was the final and decisive battle of the Second Anglo-Sikh War, effectively ending Sikh resistance and paving the way for Punjab's annexation a month later in March 1849.
• British forces were commanded by General Hugh Gough.

Why other options are wrong:

• Battle of Sobraon (1846) - Final and decisive battle of the First Anglo-Sikh War. Not called Battle of Guns.
• Battle of Mudki (1845) - First battle of the First Anglo-Sikh War. No such nickname.
• Battle of Chillianwala (1849) - Part of Second Anglo-Sikh War but the British suffered heavy losses here. It preceded Gujarat and is notable for being a British setback, not a guns battle.

Key battles quick reference:

• Mudki (1845) First Anglo-Sikh Opening battle
• Sobraon (1846) First Anglo-Sikh Decisive British victory
• Chillianwala (1849) Second Anglo-Sikh British suffered losses 
• Gujarat (1849) Second Anglo-Sikh "Battle of Guns", final defeat of Sikhs

Memory hook: Gujarat = Guns. G = G.