Consider the following statements about Harappan Civilization :
- It provides the earliest evidence of garlic.
- Ornaments and precious metals have been discovered at different sites.
- Exclusive use of burnt bricks is a unique feature.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
1 and 2
2 and 3
1 only
3 only
Answer is Right!
Answer is Wrong!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CBI DSP LDCE – 2023
Statement 2 is correct. Ornaments made of gold, silver, copper, and precious stones, as well as precious metals themselves, have been widely discovered at various Harappan sites like Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Dholavira, indicating their use and trade. Statement 3 is incorrect. While burnt bricks were extensively used, particularly for drainage systems and structures requiring strength, sun-dried bricks were also used, especially for inner walls and less exposed parts. Moreover, the use of burnt bricks was not unique to the Harappan civilization among ancient cultures. Statement 1 is debatable and lacks strong, conclusive archaeological evidence for the claim of providing the “earliest evidence of garlic” worldwide. However, some sources suggest possible knowledge or use of garlic. Given that statement 2 is definitely correct and statement 3 is definitely incorrect, option A (1 and 2) is the most likely intended answer, implying that statement 1 is considered correct by the question setter in some context (perhaps earliest evidence within the subcontinent, although even this is not universally accepted). Assuming statement 1 is considered correct for the purpose of this question, A is the correct option.
– Harappan civilization is known for its urban planning, sophisticated drainage systems, and standardized weights and measures.
– Trade was important, evidenced by seals, weights, and materials sourced from distant regions, including precious metals for ornaments.
– The construction primarily used bricks, both burnt and sun-dried, in a standardized ratio.
– While evidence of various crops is found, the specific claim about garlic being the ‘earliest evidence’ is less strongly supported compared to other aspects of the civilization.