With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements : 1. The concept of Bodhisattva is central to Hinayana sect of Buddhism. 2. Bodhisattva is a compassionate one on his way to enlightenment. 3. Bodhisattva delays achieving his own salvation to help all sentient beings on their path to it. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statements 2 and 3 are correct because a Bodhisattva is defined as a compassionate being who seeks enlightenment but voluntarily delays their own nirvana to assist all sentient beings in their spiritual journey. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Bodhisattva ideal is the central tenet of **Mahayana Buddhism**, whereas the Hinayana (Theravada) sect focuses on the ideal of the *Arhat* who seeks individual liberation. The core concept tested is the fundamental philosophical and sectarian distinction between the major schools of Buddhism.