Vedadots
Q18·GS Paper 1 · Prelims 2026

Archaeological Artifacts in Harappan Towns

HistoryAncient: Indus & VedicStatement-basedMediumStatic

Question

Consider the following statements about the archaeological findings in Harappan towns: I. There is wide occurrence of spindle-whorls in the houses but absence of spinning wheels. II. Weights and measurement scales, complete with graduations have been discovered. III. There are houses built in large part with baked bricks, around relatively spacious courtyards, with their own wells, bathing platforms, and large rooms. Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the above statements?

Options

a

1 and 2 only

Answer
b

2 and 3 only

c

1 and 3 only

d

1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Inferences 1 and 2 can be correctly drawn from the statements. Inference 1 is correct because the presence of handheld terra-cotta or terracotta spindle-whorls without mechanized wheels shows that yarn production was a manual, household activity. Inference 2 is correct because discovering standardized chert weights and ivory linear scales with systematic graduated markings confirms that the Harappans possessed advanced, uniform scientific and mathematical knowledge. Inference 3 is incorrect because spacious multi-room brick houses with personal wells and private bathing platforms indicate the growth of deep social stratification and private wealth, rather than an egalitarian 'common property system'.

Standardized weights and scales confirm the scientific precision of the Harappans, while manual spindle-whorls highlight domestic craft patterns, and advanced private brick homes indicate social stratification.

Question details

Year

2026

Paper

GS Paper 1

Question

Q18

Subject

History

Sub-topic

Ancient: Indus & Vedic

Type

Statement-based

Difficulty

Medium

Nature

Static

Source hint

NCERT History Cl.12 Part-1 Ch.1 Bricks, Beads and Bones

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