Answer: The Mauryan Empire's political unity and internal peace encouraged the expansion of trade networks in India. During Ashoka's reign, the government built major roadways, and the Mauryan international network of trade expanded. India's exports to places like Bactria and Persia included silk, textiles, and spices.
Salt and gold is the answer
One can say that dominating fire was one major breakthrough. Men were already using rock tools in this age and it was an amazing breakthrough in history of man, but learning how to dominate fire was a game changer. It made them live longer, since they had a way to scare the predators, make light at night and to defrost meat.