8000-year-old Indus Valley Civilisation could be older than the first Egyptian pharaohs
GS1History · Society · Geography· Ancient & medieval India· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) researchers published findings in Scientific Reports suggesting the Indus Valley Civilisation could date back nearly 9,000 years.
Background
The research is based on pottery fragments and animal bones discovered at Bhirrana in northern India. The findings suggest the civilization may be older than the first Egyptian pharaohs and indicate a complex society with sophisticated urban planning.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceBhirrana: Archaeological site in northern India where pottery and animal bones were discovered.
- FactThe Indus Valley Civilisation is estimated by researchers to be nearly 9,000 years old.
- BodyArchaeological Survey of India (ASI): The body responsible for the research and findings.
For Mains
Q. How do recent archaeological findings at Bhirrana challenge established timelines of early urban civilization and the evolution of organized societies in South Asia?
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Chronological revision: Potential shift in the timeline of organized urban planning relative to contemporary Egyptian civilizations
- Societal complexity: Evidence of sophisticated economic organization and urban planning in early Neolithic/Chalcolithic contexts
Keywords: Urban planning · Archaeological evidence · Chronology · Civilizational evolution · Bhirrana site
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