The Neolithic period in Karnataka is marked by the introduction of:

Agriculture and polished stone tools
Iron tools
Bronze metallurgy
Writing systems

The correct answer is: Agriculture and polished stone tools.

The Neolithic period is a period in human prehistory when the first farming communities emerged. This period is characterized by the development of agriculture, the use of polished stone tools, and the construction of permanent settlements.

In Karnataka, the Neolithic period began around 2500 BC. The first farmers in Karnataka were hunter-gatherers who began to cultivate crops such as rice, millet, and barley. They also began to domesticate animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.

The Neolithic farmers in Karnataka used polished stone tools for a variety of purposes, including farming, hunting, and woodworking. They also built permanent settlements, which were often located near rivers or other sources of water.

The Neolithic period in Karnataka was a time of great change and development. The introduction of agriculture and polished stone tools led to a more settled way of life and a more complex social structure. The Neolithic farmers in Karnataka also made significant contributions to the development of Indian culture.

Here is a brief explanation of each option:

  • Option A: Agriculture and polished stone tools. This is the correct answer. The Neolithic period is characterized by the development of agriculture and the use of polished stone tools.
  • Option B: Iron tools. Iron tools were not introduced until the Iron Age, which began after the Neolithic period.
  • Option C: Bronze metallurgy. Bronze metallurgy was also not introduced until the Bronze Age, which began after the Neolithic period.
  • Option D: Writing systems. Writing systems were not developed until the Bronze Age, which began after the Neolithic period.