Consider the following regarding the defeat of Marathas in the third battle of Panipat. 1. Tactical errors by Sadashiv Rao Bhao 2. Superior generalship of Ahmad Shah Abdali 3. Presence of a large number of non- combatants in the Maratha army 4. Treachery of a commander, Ibrahim Khan Gardi, of the Maratha army Which of these were the causes of the defeat of Marathas?

The Maratha defeat in the Third Battle of Panipat (1761) was caused by a combination of strategic and logistical failures. Sadashiv Rao Bhau committed tactical errors, including the decision to entrench the army at Panipat, which allowed Ahmad Shah Abdali to cut off their supply lines [t9]. Abdali demonstrated superior generalship and military organization compared to the Maratha leadership [t2]. A critical burden was the presence of thousands of non-combatants (pilgrims and families), which severely strained food provisions and resources [t4][t9]. While Ibrahim Khan Gardi led the Maratha artillery, historical records confirm he fought valiantly for the Marathas and died in their service; he was not a traitor. Therefore, statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct causes of the defeat, while statement 4 is factually incorrect.