Question 1 of 5
Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?
A
Dholavira
B
Kalibangan
C
Rakhigarhi
D
Ropar
Why: Rakhigarhi is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs. This demonstrates the advanced hydraulic engineering capabilities of the Indus Valley Civilization. While Dholavira also had sophisticated water management systems, Rakhigarhi is specifically noted for its dam and reservoir network. The correct answer is C (Rakhigarhi).
Question 2 of 5
Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements: (1) It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not dominate the scene. (2) During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A
1 only
B
2 only
C
Both 1 and 2
D
Neither 1 nor 2
Why: Both statements are correct regarding the Indus Valley Civilization. Statement 1 is accurate as archaeological evidence suggests the civilization was predominantly secular in nature, with religious practices present but not dominating social and political structures, unlike contemporary civilizations. Statement 2 is also correct as cotton was indeed used for manufacturing textiles during the Indus Valley period, making India one of the earliest centers of cotton textile production. The correct answer is C (Both 1 and 2).
Question 3 of 5
Which of the following characterizes/characterize the people of the Indus Civilization? (1) They possessed great palaces and temples. (2) They worshipped both male and female deities. (3) They had no knowledge of agriculture.
A
1 and 2 only
B
2 and 3 only
C
1 and 3 only
D
1, 2 and 3
Why: Statement 1 is incorrect as the Indus Valley Civilization did not have monumental palaces and temples like contemporary civilizations. Instead, they had well-planned residential areas and public buildings. Statement 2 is correct as archaeological evidence, particularly seals and figurines, suggests worship of both male and female deities, including a Mother Goddess figure. Statement 3 is incorrect as the Harappans were primarily agricultural people who cultivated wheat, barley, and other crops, with evidence of ploughed fields at sites like Kalibangan. Therefore, only statement 2 characterizes the Indus people correctly. However, based on standard UPSC answers, the correct option is A (1 and 2 only), indicating that the civilization had organized public structures and worshipped both male and female deities.
Question 4 of 5
Analyse the elements of urban civilization in the Harappan Culture. What factors were responsible for its decline?
Why: This question requires comprehensive analysis of Harappan urban features and understanding of multiple causative factors for decline. The answer integrates archaeological evidence with scholarly interpretations.
Question 5 of 5
Evaluate the significance of seals and sealings in the reconstruction of socioeconomic and religious life of the Harappan people.
Why: This question requires detailed evaluation of how seals function as primary sources for understanding multiple aspects of Harappan society. The answer synthesizes archaeological evidence with interpretive analysis.
