210. The large well supplying water to the Great Bath of Mohenjo-daro was located:
[NDA-I 2026 — 12 April 2026]
A. Near the drain of the tank
B. At the top of one of the staircases
C. In one of the adjoining rooms on the eastern side
D. At the bottom of the tank in a corner
Answer: C. In one of the adjoining rooms on the eastern side
Explanation: The Great Bath received fresh water from a large circular well situated in an adjoining room on its eastern side. Used water was discharged through a separate drain.
209. How many of the following Harappan site–region pairs are correctly matched?
[UPSC CDS-II 2026 — 13 September 2026]
- Bhirrana — Haryana
- Ganweriwala — Punjab, Pakistan
- Dholavira — Gujarat
- Farmana — Uttar Pradesh
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
Answer: C. 3
Explanation: Bhirrana, Ganweriwala and Dholavira are correctly matched. Farmana is located in Haryana, not Uttar Pradesh; therefore, three of the four pairs are correct.
208. Which of the following statements is/are correct about the Harappans?
[UPSC CDS-II 2026 — 13 September 2026]
- They were among the earliest people to grow cotton in Eurasia.
- They consumed turmeric, ginger and banana.
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: Harappans were early cultivators of cotton. Archaeobotanical and residue studies also provide evidence for consumption of foods and spices including turmeric, ginger and banana.
207. Which of the following is the correct north-to-south order of these major Harappan settlements?
[UPSC CDS-II 2026 — 13 September 2026]
A. Lakhmirwala → Banawali → Rakhigarhi → Bhirrana
B. Rakhigarhi → Banawali → Bhirrana → Lakhmirwala
C. Banawali → Rakhigarhi → Lakhmirwala → Bhirrana
D. Rakhigarhi → Bhirrana → Banawali → Lakhmirwala
Answer: A. Lakhmirwala → Banawali → Rakhigarhi → Bhirrana
Explanation: According to the examination key, their geographical placement from north towards south follows Lakhmirwala, Banawali, Rakhigarhi and Bhirrana within the wider Ghaggar-Hakra cultural region.
206. Which of the following regions was one of the major sources of copper for the Harappan Civilization?
[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I — 17 March 2026, Shift 1]
A. Rajasthan
B. Bihar
C. Afghanistan
D. Maharashtra
Answer: A. Rajasthan
Explanation: The Khetri copper belt of Rajasthan was an important source of copper for Harappan communities. Copper was extensively employed for tools, weapons, ornaments and vessels.
205. In which district of Gujarat is the Harappan archaeological site of Dholavira situated?
[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I — 27 March 2026, Shift 2]
A. Jamnagar
B. Banaskantha
C. Kutch
D. Patan
Answer: C. Kutch
Explanation: Dholavira is situated on Khadir Bet in the Great Rann of Kutch, Gujarat. It is especially renowned for its reservoirs, stone architecture and sophisticated water management.
204. Which of the following Harappan sites yielded excellent examples of metal-cast sculptures?
[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I — 7 May 2026]
A. Nageshwar
B. Kalibangan
C. Daimabad
D. Rangpur
Answer: C. Daimabad
Explanation: Daimabad in Maharashtra yielded remarkable bronze objects, including animal figures and a chariot composition. The finds demonstrate sophisticated metal-casting traditions associated with the Late Harappan-Chalcolithic horizon.
203. Which feature at Lothal provides the most convincing evidence of its role as a maritime trading centre of the Harappan Civilization?
[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I — 8 May 2026, Shift 1]
A. Discovery of seals showing distant contacts
B. A brick-built basin connected to an ancient river channel
C. Bead-making workshops
D. A large warehouse near the dock
Answer: B. A brick-built basin connected to an ancient river channel
Explanation: Lothal’s large brick-lined basin connected with an ancient water channel is interpreted as a dock facility, providing direct archaeological evidence for its maritime commercial role.
202. Which unique architectural feature particularly distinguishes the Harappan site of Dholavira?
[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I — 15 June 2026, Shift 1]
A. Large fortifications
B. Step-wells for water conservation
C. Pictorial murals on walls
D. Complex drainage systems
Answer: B. Step-wells for water conservation
Explanation: Dholavira developed exceptional water-harvesting architecture, including large stepped reservoirs and interconnected storage structures, enabling its inhabitants to conserve scarce seasonal water in the arid Kutch environment.
201. In the Harappan Civilization, what material was used at Dholavira to construct massive fortifications?
[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I — 18 June 2026, Shift 2]
A. Stone
B. Granite
C. Wood
D. Bricks
Answer: A. Stone
Explanation: Dholavira differed from many brick-dominated Harappan cities through its extensive use of locally available stone. Massive stone fortification walls surrounded and separated important sections of the settlement.
200. Consider the following statements regarding bead production in Harappan towns: [NDA-I 2026]
- Carnelian, quartz and steatite were used for making beads.
- Beads occurred in cylindrical, barrel and disc shapes.
- Specialized stone drills were used for perforating beads.
Which statements are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Harappan craftsmen produced beads from several semi-precious materials in diverse shapes. Archaeological evidence from craft centres also includes specialized drills used for making precise perforations.
199. Which inferences are supported by Harappan archaeological evidence such as spindle-whorls, calibrated weights and large brick houses with wells and bathing platforms?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2026]
A. Domestic spinning and knowledge of standardized measurement
B. Complete absence of craft specialization
C. Iron-based household industries
D. A nomadic social system
Answer: A. Domestic spinning and knowledge of standardized measurement
Explanation: Spindle-whorls indicate household textile activity, while calibrated weights reveal advanced measurement practices. Substantial houses with wells and bathing areas demonstrate sophisticated urban construction and household amenities.
198. Shortughai, a Harappan settlement in Afghanistan, was especially important for access to which resource?
[NDA-II 2026]
A. Iron ore
B. Lapis lazuli
C. Tea
D. Coal
Answer: B. Lapis lazuli
Explanation: Shortughai stood close to the Badakhshan region, famous for lapis lazuli. Its location indicates Harappan participation in long-distance trade networks involving valuable semi-precious stones.
197. Which material was commonly used for making Harappan seals?
[NDA-I 2025]
A. Sandstone
B. Lapis lazuli
C. Jasper
D. Steatite
Answer: D. Steatite
Explanation: Most Harappan seals were carved from steatite, a soft stone suitable for fine engraving. They commonly carried animal motifs, short inscriptions and occasionally composite figures.
196. Traces of irrigation canals associated with the Harappan Civilization have been found at:
[NDA-II 2025]
A. Banawali
B. Lothal
C. Shortughai
D. Dholavira
Answer: C. Shortughai
Explanation: Shortughai in Afghanistan yielded evidence of canals connected with agricultural activity. The settlement also occupied an important position in Harappan trade with Central Asian regions.
195. Which civilization is generally regarded as the earliest major urban civilization of the Indian subcontinent?
[SSC Stenographer 2025]
A. Gupta Civilization
B. Mauryan Civilization
C. Indus Valley Civilization
D. Later Vedic Civilization
Answer: C. Indus Valley Civilization
Explanation: The Harappan or Indus Civilization created the subcontinent’s earliest extensive urban network, characterized by planned streets, standardized bricks, drainage systems, craft production and long-distance commerce.
194. Rows of circular brick platforms discovered at Harappa are generally associated with which activity?
[SSC Stenographer 2025]
A. Royal coronations
B. Processing or threshing grain
C. Astronomical observation
D. Cremation
Answer: B. Processing or threshing grain
Explanation: Circular brick platforms near Harappa’s granary area contained remains associated with cereals. Archaeologists therefore connect them primarily with grain processing rather than religious ceremonies.
193. Which metal was unknown to the mature Harappans?
[SSC CHSL 2025]
A. Copper
B. Gold
C. Iron
D. Silver
Answer: C. Iron
Explanation: Harappans extensively used copper and bronze and also knew gold and silver. Iron technology became widespread in the Indian subcontinent only after the mature Harappan period.
192. The script of the Indus Valley Civilization is best described as:
[SSC MTS 2025]
A. Fully deciphered
B. Brahmi
C. Kharosthi
D. Undeciphered
Answer: D. Undeciphered
Explanation: Thousands of short Harappan inscriptions survive on seals, tablets and pottery, but no generally accepted decipherment exists because the inscriptions are brief and no bilingual text survives.
191. Which animal is generally considered absent from standard Harappan seal representations?
[SSC CPO 2025]
A. Bull
B. Elephant
C. Horse
D. Rhinoceros
Answer: C. Horse
Explanation: Bulls, elephants, rhinoceroses and several other animals occur prominently on Harappan seals. Clear and uncontested representation of the horse is notably absent from the standard seal corpus.
190. Which civilization belongs principally to the Bronze Age?
[SSC MTS 2025]
A. Harappan Civilization
B. Gupta Civilization
C. Mauryan Civilization
D. Early Medieval Civilization
Answer: A. Harappan Civilization
Explanation: Harappan technology prominently employed copper and bronze for tools, utensils and artistic objects. The civilization flourished before iron became a major technological material in South Asia.
189. Which crop is especially associated with an early Harappan contribution to textile production?
[SSC CGL 2025]
A. Tea
B. Cotton
C. Coffee
D. Tobacco
Answer: B. Cotton
Explanation: Harappans were among the earliest known cultivators and users of cotton. Archaeological and external evidence indicates that cotton textiles formed an important part of their craft economy.
188. Which Harappan site was especially famous as a specialised craft and bead-making centre?
[SSC CGL 2025]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Manda
C. Alamgirpur
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Chanhudaro
Explanation: Chanhudaro yielded evidence for bead-making, shell working and other crafts. Its occupational character differed from large centres such as Mohenjo-daro, emphasizing specialized manufacturing activities.
187. Which statement about Harappan burials is correct?
[SSC MTS 2024]
A. All bodies were cremated
B. The dead were generally placed in burial pits
C. Only kings were buried
D. Burial was completely unknown
Answer: B. The dead were generally placed in burial pits
Explanation: Harappan cemeteries show that bodies were commonly placed in rectangular or oval pits, sometimes accompanied by pottery, ornaments or other limited grave goods.
186. Harappan city streets were generally aligned according to which directions?
[SSC MTS 2024]
A. Random directions
B. Cardinal directions
C. Only northeast-southwest
D. Circular directions
Answer: B. Cardinal directions
Explanation: Major streets commonly followed north-south and east-west orientations. This grid-like arrangement reflects careful urban planning and helped organize residential blocks and drainage channels efficiently.
185. Most major Harappan cities were broadly divided into how many principal sectors?
[SSC MTS 2024]
A. Two
B. Three
C. Four
D. Six
Answer: A. Two
Explanation: Many Harappan cities had a raised, often fortified western citadel and a larger lower town. Dholavira was exceptional because its internal urban division was more complex.
184. Which material was NOT used as a normal construction material in Harappan buildings?
[SSC MTS 2024]
A. Wood
B. Burnt bricks
C. Iron
D. Gypsum mortar
Answer: C. Iron
Explanation: Harappan builders used mud bricks, burnt bricks, timber and various binding materials. Iron was not part of mature Harappan technology and therefore was not a construction material.
183. Harappa, discovered in pre-Independence India, was situated in which province?
[SSC MTS 2024]
A. Punjab
B. Bengal
C. Sindh
D. United Provinces
Answer: A. Punjab
Explanation: Harappa lies in present-day Punjab province of Pakistan on the Ravi river system. The civilization eventually took its archaeological name from this important excavated site.
182. Which metal was not known to the Harappans?
[SSC CGL 2024]
A. Gold
B. Silver
C. Iron
D. Copper
Answer: C. Iron
Explanation: Copper, bronze, gold and silver objects occur at Harappan sites. Their archaeological assemblages lack established iron technology, distinguishing Harappan material culture from later Iron Age societies.
181. Which Harappan site is most strongly associated with an ancient dockyard?
[SSC GD 2024]
A. Harappa
B. Lothal
C. Kalibangan
D. Banawali
Answer: B. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal in Gujarat contains a large brick-lined basin traditionally interpreted as a dockyard, illustrating the importance of maritime activity and overseas trade to Harappan commerce.
180. Which animal is generally absent from the standard corpus of Harappan seals?
[SSC GD 2024]
A. Elephant
B. Bull
C. Tiger
D. Horse
Answer: D. Horse
Explanation: Harappan seals portray numerous wild and domesticated animals, particularly the so-called unicorn and humped bull. Evidence for the horse remains limited and archaeologically debated.
179. The Harappan Civilization belongs principally to which technological age?
[SSC CHSL 2024]
A. Iron Age
B. Bronze Age
C. Paleolithic Age
D. Mesolithic Age
Answer: B. Bronze Age
Explanation: Copper and bronze metallurgy formed an important component of Harappan technology. Iron was not regularly used, placing the mature civilization within the South Asian Bronze Age.
178. Which crop was especially important in Harappan textile production?
[SSC CHSL 2024]
A. Cotton
B. Tobacco
C. Coffee
D. Jute
Answer: A. Cotton
Explanation: Archaeological evidence demonstrates cultivation and textile use of cotton among the Harappans. Mesopotamian references also suggest trade in textiles originating from the Indus region.
177. Lothal is located in which present-day Indian state?
[WBCS/WBPSC 2023]
A. Rajasthan
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Gujarat
D. Haryana
Answer: C. Gujarat
Explanation: Lothal lies in Gujarat near the Gulf of Khambhat. Its dock-like structure, bead industry and warehouses highlight the commercial character of this Harappan settlement.
176. Which statement concerning the ploughed field at Kalibangan is correct?
[NDA-II 2023]
A. It shows crossing furrows suggesting mixed cropping
B. It was an iron-ploughed rice field
C. It belonged to the Gupta period
D. No agricultural evidence exists there
Answer: A. It shows crossing furrows suggesting mixed cropping
Explanation: The fossilized field at Kalibangan contained two sets of furrows intersecting approximately at right angles, often interpreted as evidence that two crops could be cultivated together.
175. The Great Bath of Mohenjo-daro was most probably connected with:
[SSC MTS 2023]
A. Grain storage
B. Ritual or ceremonial bathing
C. Horse training
D. Metal smelting
Answer: B. Ritual or ceremonial bathing
Explanation: Its careful waterproofing, stairways and surrounding rooms suggest controlled communal use. Scholars commonly interpret the Great Bath as a structure associated with ceremonial purification.
174. Lothal was situated near a tributary connected with which major river system?
[SSC MTS 2023]
A. Sabarmati
B. Krishna
C. Godavari
D. Mahanadi
Answer: A. Sabarmati
Explanation: Lothal was located near the Bhogava, linked with the Sabarmati system. Its geography gave the settlement access to the Gulf of Khambhat and maritime routes.
173. Mohenjo-daro belonged to which ancient civilization?
[SSC MTS 2023]
A. Indus Valley Civilization
B. Egyptian Civilization
C. Roman Civilization
D. Maya Civilization
Answer: A. Indus Valley Civilization
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro was one of the largest urban centres of the mature Harappan Civilization, renowned for its planned streets, Great Bath, drainage and standardized brick architecture.
172. Mohenjo-daro was located on the bank of which river?
[SSC CPO 2023]
A. Ravi
B. Indus
C. Beas
D. Ghaggar
Answer: B. Indus
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro developed in the Indus river plain of Sindh. Its location provided fertile agricultural land and communication routes but also exposed the settlement to floods.
171. Which of these cities existed during the Harappan Civilization?
[SSC CHSL 2023]
A. Harappa
B. Sanchi
C. Pataliputra
D. Vijayanagara
Answer: A. Harappa
Explanation: Harappa was one of the civilization’s principal urban centres. Sanchi, Pataliputra and Vijayanagara belong to much later periods of Indian history.
170. Which Harappan city was divided into three major parts?
[SSC CHSL 2023]
A. Dholavira
B. Harappa
C. Chanhudaro
D. Alamgirpur
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira displayed an unusual tripartite arrangement commonly described as citadel, middle town and lower town, making its urban layout distinctive among major Harappan settlements.
169. Which Harappan city is famous for a dockyard?
[SSC CHSL 2023]
A. Kalibangan
B. Lothal
C. Rakhigarhi
D. Harappa
Answer: B. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal’s massive brick basin is conventionally interpreted as a dock facility. The settlement also produced beads and other goods used in regional and overseas commerce.
168. Which Harappan site in Gujarat is especially noted for water conservation?
[SSC 2023]
A. Dholavira
B. Alamgirpur
C. Manda
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira developed a remarkable system of stone-lined reservoirs, channels and water-harvesting structures suited to the dry environment of the Rann of Kutch.
167. Which Harappan site is located in Afghanistan?
[SSC 2023]
A. Shortughai
B. Kalibangan
C. Ropar
D. Banawali
Answer: A. Shortughai
Explanation: Shortughai was an outlying Harappan settlement in northeastern Afghanistan. Its position helped connect the Indus world with Central Asian resources, especially lapis lazuli.
166. Which feature best demonstrates the urban character of Harappan civilization?
[SSC 2023]
A. Planned streets and drainage
B. Cave dwelling
C. Exclusive hunting economy
D. Absence of crafts
Answer: A. Planned streets and drainage
Explanation: Harappan centres exhibit planned street grids, standardized buildings, covered drains and specialized craft areas, providing strong evidence for organized and sophisticated urban settlement.
165. Which site is associated with terracotta models of a plough?
[SSC 2023]
A. Banawali
B. Harappa
C. Mohenjo-daro
D. Balakot
Answer: A. Banawali
Explanation: Terracotta plough models discovered at Banawali provide material evidence for agricultural technology. Combined with Kalibangan’s furrowed field, they reveal organized Harappan farming practices.
164. Which site had evidence of fire altars?
[SSC GD 2023]
A. Kalibangan
B. Manda
C. Harappa only
D. Alamgirpur
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Archaeologists identified rows of structures interpreted as fire altars at Kalibangan. Similar ritual installations have also been reported from some other Harappan settlements.
163. Which Harappan centre is especially connected with bead manufacture and craft specialization?
[SSC MTS 2023]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Manda
C. Hulas
D. Alamgirpur
Answer: A. Chanhudaro
Explanation: Chanhudaro produced substantial evidence of bead-making and craft workshops. Its archaeological remains illustrate the high degree of occupational specialization within the Harappan economy.
162. Based on Harappan excavations, which statement is NOT generally correct?
[CGPSC 2022]
A. Standardized bricks were used extensively
B. Most houses were only single-storeyed
C. Broad roads existed in major towns
D. Urban planning was developed
Answer: B. Most houses were only single-storeyed
Explanation: Evidence of staircases and substantial walls shows that many Harappan houses could have upper floors. Their towns also display standardized bricks and organized streets.
161. In which Indian state have Harappan towns NOT normally been found?
[SSC CGL 2022]
A. Haryana
B. Rajasthan
C. Uttarakhand
D. Gujarat
Answer: C. Uttarakhand
Explanation: Important Harappan settlements occur extensively in Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat. Uttarakhand lies outside the principal known distribution of mature Harappan urban sites.
160. From which present-day region did Harappans obtain gold?
[SSC CGL 2022]
A. Karnataka
B. Assam
C. Bihar
D. Punjab
Answer: A. Karnataka
Explanation: Harappan long-distance exchange networks brought gold from southern regions, including Karnataka. Raw materials were transported considerable distances to support specialized urban crafts.
159. Which metal was widely used for making tools and weapons in Harappan cities?
[SSC CGL 2022]
A. Iron
B. Copper
C. Aluminium
D. Zinc
Answer: B. Copper
Explanation: Copper and its alloy bronze were fundamental to Harappan metallurgy. Craftspeople made tools, vessels, mirrors, weapons and figurines using these metals.
158. Which Harappan site is located in Haryana?
[SSC CGL 2022]
A. Rakhigarhi
B. Kalibangan
C. Lothal
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Rakhigarhi
Explanation: Rakhigarhi in Haryana is one of the largest known Harappan urban settlements. Excavations have revealed residential areas, drainage, burials and extensive material remains.
157. Houses excavated at Mehrgarh were commonly of which basic shape?
[SSC CGL 2022]
A. Square or rectangular
B. Circular only
C. Triangular
D. Hexagonal
Answer: A. Square or rectangular
Explanation: Mehrgarh’s early mud-brick buildings were generally rectilinear, often divided into compartments. The site documents the long cultural development preceding the mature Harappan urban phase.
156. Ancient Dholavira was divided into how many major sections?
[SSC MTS 2022]
A. Two
B. Three
C. Four
D. Five
Answer: B. Three
Explanation: Unlike the common citadel-lower-town pattern, Dholavira possessed a distinctive three-part urban organization, demonstrating experimentation within the broader Harappan town-planning tradition.
155. At which site was the Great Bath discovered?
[SSC MTS 2022]
A. Lothal
B. Kalibangan
C. Mohenjo-daro
D. Rakhigarhi
Answer: C. Mohenjo-daro
Explanation: The Great Bath is Mohenjo-daro’s best-known public structure. Its waterproof brick construction and sophisticated water arrangements demonstrate remarkable Harappan engineering.
154. Which Harappan site served as a port or maritime centre?
[SSC MTS 2022]
A. Lothal
B. Harappa
C. Manda
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal’s location near navigable waterways and its dock-like basin made it an important centre for maritime exchange between Gujarat and regions beyond the subcontinent.
153. Lothal is situated in which state?
[SSC MTS 2022]
A. Punjab
B. Gujarat
C. Rajasthan
D. Uttar Pradesh
Answer: B. Gujarat
Explanation: Lothal lies in present-day Gujarat near Saragwala. Excavations uncovered a dock-like structure, warehouse, bead workshops and other evidence of commercial activity.
152. Most Harappan seals were made from which material?
[SSC MTS 2022]
A. Steatite
B. Iron
C. Marble
D. Granite
Answer: A. Steatite
Explanation: Steatite’s softness allowed detailed carving of script and animal figures. After carving, seals could be heated to produce a harder, durable surface.
151. Which city was known for its extensive reservoir system?
[NDA-II 2022]
A. Kalibangan
B. Dholavira
C. Harappa
D. Chanhudaro
Answer: B. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira’s inhabitants constructed interconnected reservoirs and channels to collect seasonal runoff. This complex system allowed urban life to flourish in an arid environment.
150. Fire altars are particularly associated with which Harappan site?
[NDA-II 2022]
A. Kalibangan
B. Alamgirpur
C. Manda
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Kalibangan produced installations interpreted as ritual fire altars, especially within fortified areas. The site is also celebrated for evidence of a ploughed agricultural field.
149. Harappa and Mohenjo-daro belong to which civilization?
[WBCS/WBPSC 2022]
A. Egyptian
B. Sumerian
C. Indus Valley
D. Roman
Answer: C. Indus Valley
Explanation: Harappa and Mohenjo-daro were the first major urban sites whose excavation revealed the previously unknown Bronze Age civilization now called Harappan or Indus Valley.
148. Which portion of a Harappan city was generally smaller, elevated and often fortified?
[SSC CGL 2022]
A. Citadel
B. Lower town
C. Port quarter
D. Agricultural field
Answer: A. Citadel
Explanation: Archaeologists use “citadel” for the elevated western sector of many Harappan cities. It contained important public or specialized structures and was often enclosed by walls.
147. Which of the following was normally located outside the Harappan citadel?
[SSC CPO 2022]
A. Public residential quarters
B. Major granary
C. Large bath complex
D. Certain ritual installations
Answer: A. Public residential quarters
Explanation: Ordinary residential neighbourhoods generally occupied the extensive lower town, while the elevated citadel contained prominent communal, administrative or specialized structures.
146. The famous site Rakhigarhi belongs to which state?
[SSC 2022]
A. Haryana
B. Gujarat
C. Rajasthan
D. Punjab
Answer: A. Haryana
Explanation: Rakhigarhi lies in Hisar district of Haryana. Its vast archaeological area establishes it as one of the largest settlements of the Harappan cultural system.
145. Which site was situated near the Bolan Pass and represents an important precursor to Harappan civilization?
[SSC CGL 2022]
A. Mehrgarh
B. Lothal
C. Alamgirpur
D. Banawali
Answer: A. Mehrgarh
Explanation: Mehrgarh in Balochistan developed near the Bolan Pass. Its Neolithic and Chalcolithic sequence documents early agriculture, pastoralism and crafts preceding Harappan urbanization.
144. Which Harappan centre was noted for advanced water harvesting rather than a dockyard?
[SSC 2022]
A. Dholavira
B. Lothal
C. Chanhudaro
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira’s defining feature is its carefully engineered water-storage system, whereas Lothal is traditionally associated with a dockyard and maritime commerce.
143. Which feature distinguished Dholavira from many other Harappan cities?
[SSC 2022]
A. Threefold urban division
B. Complete absence of fortification
C. Use of iron pillars
D. Buddhist monasteries
Answer: A. Threefold urban division
Explanation: Dholavira possessed citadel, middle town and lower town sectors. Its substantial use of stone and sophisticated reservoirs further distinguished its architecture from many Harappan centres.
142. Which ancient town is famous for dams, channels and interconnected reservoirs used for water management?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2021]
A. Dholavira
B. Kalibangan
C. Rakhigarhi
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira transformed seasonal runoff into stored water through dams, drains and reservoirs. Its engineering represents one of the most sophisticated water-management systems of ancient South Asia.
141. Which Indus site was the first to be discovered archaeologically?
[RRB NTPC 2021]
A. Mohenjo-daro
B. Harappa
C. Lothal
D. Kalibangan
Answer: B. Harappa
Explanation: Daya Ram Sahni began major excavation at Harappa in 1921. Its discovery preceded R. D. Banerji’s excavation of Mohenjo-daro and gave the civilization its name.
140. Harappa was situated on the bank of which river?
[RRB NTPC 2021]
A. Ravi
B. Jhelum
C. Indus
D. Ganga
Answer: A. Ravi
Explanation: Harappa developed along an old course of the Ravi in Punjab. River systems supported agriculture, transport and settlement throughout much of the Harappan domain.
139. Who excavated Mohenjo-daro and recognized its archaeological significance?
[RRB NTPC 2021]
A. R. D. Banerji
B. Daya Ram Sahni
C. S. R. Rao
D. B. B. Lal
Answer: A. R. D. Banerji
Explanation: Rakhaldas Banerji excavated Mohenjo-daro in the early 1920s. Together with discoveries at Harappa, the finds led John Marshall to announce the ancient civilization.
138. Mohenjo-daro is located in which present-day Pakistani province?
[RRB NTPC 2021]
A. Punjab
B. Sindh
C. Balochistan
D. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Answer: B. Sindh
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro lies in Sindh near the Indus River. It became one of the most extensively excavated and best-known urban centres of Harappan civilization.
137. Which Harappan site in Gujarat is famous for reservoirs?
[RRB NTPC 2021]
A. Dholavira
B. Manda
C. Alamgirpur
D. Hulas
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira’s huge stone-lined reservoirs collected and conserved scarce water. Its hydraulic infrastructure was crucial because the settlement occupied an environmentally challenging region.
136. Which Harappan site was NOT primarily a craft-production centre?
[RRB NTPC 2021]
A. Balakot
B. Manda
C. Chanhudaro
D. Nageshwar
Answer: B. Manda
Explanation: Chanhudaro, Balakot and Nageshwar are associated with specialized craft production such as beads and shell work. Manda was a northern frontier settlement rather than a major craft centre.
135. Who began systematic excavations at Dholavira in 1990?
[SSC CHSL 2021]
A. R. S. Bisht
B. S. R. Rao
C. M. S. Vats
D. R. D. Banerji
Answer: A. R. S. Bisht
Explanation: Archaeologist R. S. Bisht led major excavations at Dholavira, revealing its unique town planning, extensive water structures, fortifications and famous large-script signboard.
134. Terracotta models of ploughs have been found at:
[SSC CHSL 2021]
A. Banawali
B. Mohenjo-daro
C. Harappa
D. Balakot
Answer: A. Banawali
Explanation: Banawali yielded terracotta plough models, giving direct archaeological evidence of agricultural equipment. Such finds complement the excavated furrows known from Kalibangan.
133. Which Harappan site is situated in Afghanistan?
[SSC MTS 2021]
A. Shortughai
B. Kalibangan
C. Lothal
D. Surkotada
Answer: A. Shortughai
Explanation: Shortughai shows that Harappan commercial influence extended far beyond the Indus basin. Its location connected Harappan merchants with Central Asian mineral resources.
132. Which of these Harappan sites is NOT located in Pakistan?
[SSC MTS 2021]
A. Shortughai
B. Kot Diji
C. Balakot
D. Chanhudaro
Answer: A. Shortughai
Explanation: Shortughai lies in present-day Afghanistan, whereas Kot Diji, Balakot and Chanhudaro are within modern Pakistan and formed part of the broader Harappan cultural region.
131. Which Harappan settlement in India lies in Haryana?
[SSC 2021]
A. Rakhigarhi
B. Lothal
C. Kalibangan
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Rakhigarhi
Explanation: Rakhigarhi is located in Haryana and covers an exceptionally large archaeological area. It preserves evidence from different stages of the Harappan cultural sequence.
130. Which civilization’s houses commonly incorporated brick construction and drainage?
[SSC 2021]
A. Harappan
B. Paleolithic
C. Mesolithic
D. Gupta village culture
Answer: A. Harappan
Explanation: Harappan residential architecture used standardized mud and baked bricks. Bathrooms and household drains often connected with larger street drains, illustrating organized urban sanitation.
129. Which city is associated most directly with the Great Bath?
[SSC 2021]
A. Mohenjo-daro
B. Lothal
C. Banawali
D. Surkotada
Answer: A. Mohenjo-daro
Explanation: Built with carefully fitted bricks and waterproofing, the Great Bath was constructed in Mohenjo-daro’s elevated sector and probably served communal ceremonial purposes.
128. Which Harappan city had a major maritime trading facility?
[SSC 2021]
A. Lothal
B. Harappa
C. Ropar
D. Alamgirpur
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal’s location close to the Gulf of Khambhat encouraged maritime commerce. Archaeological evidence includes a basin interpreted as a dock and specialized commercial facilities.
127. Copper used by the Harappans was obtained significantly from which region?
[SSC MTS 2021]
A. Rajasthan
B. Kerala
C. Bengal delta
D. Kashmir
Answer: A. Rajasthan
Explanation: Rajasthan’s Khetri copper belt was an important source for Harappan metalworking. Long-distance procurement of raw materials demonstrates an organized and interconnected economic system.
126. Which site is famous for both a ploughed field and ritual fire installations?
[SSC 2021]
A. Kalibangan
B. Manda
C. Ropar
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Kalibangan in Rajasthan produced preserved furrow marks interpreted as a ploughed field and several structures described as fire altars, making it archaeologically distinctive.
125. The term “Mohenjo-daro” literally means:
[RRB NTPC 2021]
A. Mound of the Dead
B. City of Gold
C. City of Merchants
D. Great Port
Answer: A. Mound of the Dead
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro is commonly translated from Sindhi as “Mound of the Dead.” The ancient settlement’s original Harappan name remains unknown because its script remains undeciphered.
124. Which site illustrates Harappan expansion into the upper Ganga-Yamuna region?
[SSC 2021]
A. Alamgirpur
B. Lothal
C. Dholavira
D. Balakot
Answer: A. Alamgirpur
Explanation: Alamgirpur in western Uttar Pradesh represents the easternmost extension traditionally assigned to the Harappan cultural horizon and demonstrates the civilization’s enormous geographical spread.
123. Which Harappan site is associated with a large signboard bearing script symbols?
[SSC 2021]
A. Dholavira
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira yielded exceptionally large Indus signs arranged like a public signboard, an unusual discovery because most Harappan inscriptions occur as short texts on seals.
122. Which statement about the Harappan script is correct?
[SSC 2021]
A. It remains undeciphered
B. It is definitely Sanskrit
C. It is written in Devanagari
D. It contains long historical chronicles
Answer: A. It remains undeciphered
Explanation: Despite numerous proposed readings, no decipherment has gained scholarly consensus. The inscriptions are generally short and no bilingual inscription comparable to the Rosetta Stone survives.
121. Which material was extensively used for Harappan seal-making?
[SSC 2021]
A. Steatite
B. Iron
C. Marble
D. Granite
Answer: A. Steatite
Explanation: Steatite was easily carved and could be hardened through firing. Harappan artisans used it to manufacture square seals containing inscriptions and animal imagery.
120. Which feature most clearly indicates Harappan standardization?
[SSC 2021]
A. Uniform brick proportions and weights
B. Absence of trade
C. Only wooden buildings
D. Use of iron coinage
Answer: A. Uniform brick proportions and weights
Explanation: Similar brick ratios and standardized cubical weights across distant settlements indicate shared technical norms, commercial conventions and remarkable cultural integration across the Harappan world.
119. Which site is particularly famous for a bead-making industry?
[SSC 2021]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Manda
C. Alamgirpur
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Chanhudaro
Explanation: Numerous unfinished beads, drills and workshop remains at Chanhudaro identify it as a specialized manufacturing settlement within the Harappan economic network.
118. Which statement about Harappan town planning is correct?
[RRB 2021]
A. Streets and drains were systematically planned
B. Houses had no drainage outlets
C. Cities were entirely unfortified villages
D. Iron roads connected every settlement
Answer: A. Streets and drains were systematically planned
Explanation: Harappan cities incorporated organized streets, residential blocks and covered drainage channels. This integrated planning distinguishes their settlements from less structured contemporary village communities.
117. Chert blades supplied to Harappan settlements in Sindh were produced particularly in which region?
[CDS-I 2020]
A. Sukkur and Rohri Hills
B. Khetri Hills
C. Aravalli summit
D. Chotanagpur Plateau
Answer: A. Sukkur and Rohri Hills
Explanation: The Rohri-Sukkur limestone hills contained excellent chert deposits. Specialized workshops produced stone blades that were distributed throughout several Harappan settlements in the Indus region.
116. Match the Harappan sites correctly: Balu, Manda, Padri and Hulas with their modern states/regions. Which combination is correct?
[UPPSC Prelims 2020]
A. Balu-Haryana; Manda-Jammu; Padri-Gujarat; Hulas-Uttar Pradesh
B. Balu-Gujarat; Manda-Haryana; Padri-Jammu; Hulas-Punjab
C. All are in Gujarat
D. All are in Pakistan
Answer: A. Balu-Haryana; Manda-Jammu; Padri-Gujarat; Hulas-Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: These sites show the broad geographical distribution of Harappan culture, extending from Jammu in the north through Haryana and Uttar Pradesh to Gujarat.
115. Which mature Harappan site is situated in Rajasthan?
[SSC CPO 2020]
A. Kalibangan
B. Nageshwar
C. Manda
D. Chanhudaro
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Kalibangan lies on the Ghaggar system in Rajasthan. Excavations revealed both pre-Harappan and mature Harappan occupation, together with distinctive agricultural and ritual remains.
114. Harappa was first excavated in which year?
[SSC CHSL 2020]
A. 1921
B. 1935
C. 1947
D. 1901
Answer: A. 1921
Explanation: Daya Ram Sahni commenced systematic excavation at Harappa in 1921. Mohenjo-daro was investigated soon afterward, leading to recognition of the Harappan Civilization.
113. Ropar, an important Harappan site, is situated on which river?
[SSC CHSL 2020]
A. Sutlej
B. Indus
C. Ravi
D. Jhelum
Answer: A. Sutlej
Explanation: Ropar, now Rupnagar in Punjab, developed near the Sutlej River. Its archaeological sequence extends beyond the Harappan period into later historical cultures.
112. Which site is known for Harappan occupation in Punjab on the Sutlej?
[SSC 2020]
A. Ropar
B. Lothal
C. Balakot
D. Sutkagendor
Answer: A. Ropar
Explanation: Ropar provides evidence of Harappan settlement in the eastern Punjab region and is important because later cultural levels continue above its Harappan deposits.
111. Which structure is most strongly associated with Mohenjo-daro?
[SSC 2020]
A. Great Bath
B. Dockyard
C. Rock-cut cave
D. Iron pillar
Answer: A. Great Bath
Explanation: The Great Bath is a brick-lined public water structure with staircases, surrounding rooms and sophisticated waterproofing, making it the iconic architectural discovery of Mohenjo-daro.
110. Which city is linked to maritime commerce through the Gulf of Khambhat?
[SSC 2020]
A. Lothal
B. Harappa
C. Manda
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal occupied an advantageous position near waterways leading to the Gulf of Khambhat, enabling contact with coastal India and wider western trade networks.
109. Which site contained both pre-Harappan and mature Harappan cultural phases?
[SSC 2020]
A. Kalibangan
B. Sanchi
C. Taxila
D. Nalanda
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Excavation at Kalibangan uncovered an earlier fortified settlement beneath the mature Harappan town, allowing archaeologists to examine cultural development across successive phases.
108. The Harappan Civilization is termed “protohistoric” mainly because:
[PSC 2020]
A. Its script exists but remains undeciphered
B. It had no writing
C. It belongs to the Mughal period
D. Its history is fully documented
Answer: A. Its script exists but remains undeciphered
Explanation: A protohistoric culture possesses writing whose content cannot yet be fully read, so archaeological evidence remains the principal basis for reconstructing its history.
107. Which one of the following is NOT a Harappan site?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2019]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Kot Diji
C. Sohgaura
D. Desalpur
Answer: C. Sohgaura
Explanation: Chanhudaro, Kot Diji and Desalpur belong to the Harappan cultural sphere. Sohgaura is famous instead for an inscription generally associated with the Mauryan period.
106. Which among the following was the largest of the major ancient civilizations listed?
[SSC MTS 2019]
A. Egyptian
B. Mesopotamian
C. Indus Valley
D. Chinese
Answer: C. Indus Valley
Explanation: The Harappan cultural zone covered an exceptionally extensive territory from Afghanistan and Balochistan to Gujarat, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, exceeding its contemporary urban civilizations geographically.
105. Mohenjo-daro was situated on which river?
[SSC MTS 2019]
A. Indus
B. Ravi
C. Beas
D. Ganga
Answer: A. Indus
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro stood within the Indus floodplain in Sindh. The river supported agriculture and communication but repeated flooding probably affected the city’s occupational history.
104. Mohenjo-daro lies in which province of Pakistan?
[SSC CPO 2019]
A. Sindh
B. Punjab
C. Balochistan
D. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Answer: A. Sindh
Explanation: The archaeological mound is located near Larkana in Sindh province. It represents one of the largest and most carefully planned Harappan urban centres.
103. Surkotada is situated in which Indian state?
[SSC CPO 2019]
A. Gujarat
B. Rajasthan
C. Haryana
D. Punjab
Answer: A. Gujarat
Explanation: Surkotada is a fortified Harappan settlement in Kutch, Gujarat. Excavations there have also contributed to debates concerning equid remains in Harappan contexts.
102. Evidence of a ploughed field was discovered at:
[SSC CHSL 2019]
A. Kalibangan
B. Harappa
C. Mohenjo-daro
D. Chanhudaro
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Archaeologists found preserved cross-furrows at Kalibangan, representing one of the earliest direct archaeological indications of a ploughed agricultural field in South Asia.
101. Which site is especially associated with a Harappan dockyard?
[SSC CGL 2019]
A. Lothal
B. Banawali
C. Harappa
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: The large brick basin excavated at Lothal is conventionally identified as a dockyard, reinforcing evidence for substantial maritime and coastal commerce.
100. Bhirrana is significant in Harappan studies because it has yielded:
[SSC MTS 2019]
A. Very early levels associated with the Harappan cultural sequence
B. Ashokan edicts
C. Gupta gold coins
D. Buddhist stupas only
Answer: A. Very early levels associated with the Harappan cultural sequence
Explanation: Bhirrana in Haryana has produced early cultural levels related to the development of Harappan traditions, contributing to debates over the chronology of regional settlement.
99. Which archaeological site is located in Maharashtra and belongs to a later Chalcolithic tradition rather than the core Harappan zone?
[SSC MTS 2019]
A. Inamgaon
B. Dholavira
C. Lothal
D. Kalibangan
Answer: A. Inamgaon
Explanation: Inamgaon belongs chiefly to the Deccan Chalcolithic tradition. It is useful comparatively but should not be confused with mature Harappan urban settlements.
98. Which site is located in Uttar Pradesh and is known for Neolithic rice evidence rather than mature Harappan urbanism?
[SSC MTS 2019]
A. Koldihwa
B. Lothal
C. Harappa
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Koldihwa
Explanation: Koldihwa is a significant Neolithic site in the Belan Valley, whereas Harappa, Lothal and Dholavira belong directly to the Harappan civilization.
97. Which Harappan structure indicates advanced public sanitation and water use?
[SSC 2019]
A. Great Bath
B. Iron furnace
C. Buddhist chaitya
D. Megalithic dolmen
Answer: A. Great Bath
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro’s Great Bath required sophisticated brickwork, waterproofing and water control, providing striking evidence of Harappan engineering and concern with communal bathing.
96. Which metal was absent from mature Harappan technological use?
[SSC 2019]
A. Iron
B. Copper
C. Silver
D. Gold
Answer: A. Iron
Explanation: Mature Harappan society possessed accomplished copper-bronze metallurgy and precious-metal working but did not use iron as a regular technological material.
95. Harappan seals most often served as evidence of:
[SSC 2019]
A. Administrative and commercial activity
B. Iron technology
C. Vedic sacrifices alone
D. Buddhist monasticism
Answer: A. Administrative and commercial activity
Explanation: Seals probably functioned in identity, ownership, administration or trade. Their widespread discovery, standardized shapes and repeated motifs indicate important roles in Harappan economic organization.
94. The “Dancing Girl” of Mohenjo-daro was made using:
[SSC 2019]
A. Bronze
B. Iron
C. Marble
D. Wood
Answer: A. Bronze
Explanation: The small bronze statuette was created using sophisticated metal-casting techniques, probably the lost-wax method, and demonstrates the artistic skill of Harappan metalworkers.
93. Which civilization displayed highly standardized cubical weights?
[SSC 2019]
A. Harappan
B. Gupta
C. Kushana
D. Satavahana
Answer: A. Harappan
Explanation: Cubical stone weights followed remarkably consistent standards across distant Harappan centres, facilitating commercial transactions and demonstrating shared systems of measurement.
92. Which city lacked the usual fortified citadel traditionally seen at many Harappan sites?
[SSC 2019]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Chanhudaro
Explanation: Chanhudaro is frequently identified as an unusual Harappan settlement without a separately fortified citadel, and it functioned predominantly as an important craft-production centre.
91. The Great Granary is prominently associated with:
[SSC 2019]
A. Mohenjo-daro
B. Sarnath
C. Ujjain
D. Pataliputra
Answer: A. Mohenjo-daro
Explanation: A massive structure at Mohenjo-daro has traditionally been interpreted as a granary, although modern archaeological interpretation of some Harappan monumental buildings remains debated.
90. Harappan houses were commonly organized around:
[SSC 2019]
A. Courtyards
B. Buddhist stupas
C. Royal pyramids
D. Amphitheatres
Answer: A. Courtyards
Explanation: Residential buildings often opened into central courtyards, with rooms surrounding them. This arrangement promoted privacy, ventilation and convenient access to bathing and domestic areas.
89. Which river is associated with the Harappan site of Harappa?
[SSC 2019]
A. Ravi
B. Ganga
C. Narmada
D. Godavari
Answer: A. Ravi
Explanation: Harappa was established beside an old channel of the Ravi River. Its position within Punjab’s river network supported agriculture, movement and regional exchange.
88. Which Harappan site is particularly famous for shell-working and coastal craft activity in Gujarat?
[SSC 2019]
A. Nageshwar
B. Manda
C. Alamgirpur
D. Rakhigarhi
Answer: A. Nageshwar
Explanation: Nageshwar in Gujarat was a specialized shell-working centre. Marine shells were transformed into bangles and other objects distributed through Harappan exchange networks.
87. Kot Diji lies close to which major Harappan urban centre?
[CDS-II 2018]
A. Harappa
B. Mohenjo-daro
C. Lothal
D. Kalibangan
Answer: B. Mohenjo-daro
Explanation: Kot Diji in Sindh lies comparatively close to Mohenjo-daro and is important for its pre-Harappan cultural phase, which preceded mature urban Harappan development.
86. Which Harappan centres are located in Uttar Pradesh?
[UPPSC Prelims 2018]
A. Alamgirpur and Hulas
B. Kalibangan and Lothal
C. Harappa and Mohenjo-daro
D. Dholavira and Surkotada
Answer: A. Alamgirpur and Hulas
Explanation: Alamgirpur and Hulas represent the eastern extension of Late Harappan cultural influence into western Uttar Pradesh, far from the civilization’s principal Indus centres.
85. The Indus Civilization emerged around which broad period according to the conventional chronology used in older examinations?
[RRB Group D 2018]
A. Around 2500 BCE
B. Around 500 BCE
C. Around 1200 CE
D. Around 500 CE
Answer: A. Around 2500 BCE
Explanation: Older examination texts commonly dated the mature phase approximately 2500–1750 BCE. Modern calibrated chronology usually places Mature Harappan civilization around 2600–1900 BCE.
84. The name Mohenjo-daro meaning “Mound of the Dead” comes from which language?
[RRB Group D 2018]
A. Sindhi
B. Tamil
C. Sanskrit
D. Pali
Answer: A. Sindhi
Explanation: “Mohenjo-daro” is a modern Sindhi place-name usually translated as “Mound of the Dead.” The original ancient name of the city remains unknown.
83. Copper mixed with tin produces which alloy extensively used by Harappans?
[RRB Group D 2018]
A. Bronze
B. Steel
C. Brass
D. Pewter
Answer: A. Bronze
Explanation: Bronze is produced primarily by alloying copper with tin. Harappan craftsmen used bronze for tools, weapons, vessels and artistic objects such as the Dancing Girl.
82. Which Harappan site used unbaked mud bricks extensively?
[SSC CHSL 2018]
A. Kalibangan
B. Mohenjo-daro
C. Chanhudaro
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Kalibangan’s architecture made extensive use of mud brick, although fired bricks were known throughout Harappan culture and were especially important for drains and water-related structures.
81. Which feature was NOT discovered at Kalibangan?
[SSC CHSL 2018]
A. Fire altars
B. Ploughed field
C. Black bangles
D. Couple burial
Answer: D. Couple burial
Explanation: Kalibangan is famous for fire altars, a ploughed field and distinctive material remains. Evidence of a paired burial is particularly associated with Lothal.
80. A joint or couple burial has been reported from which Harappan site?
[SSC CHSL 2018]
A. Lothal
B. Kalibangan
C. Harappa
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Among Lothal’s burial evidence is a grave containing two individuals, often cited in examinations as an example of a Harappan “couple burial.”
79. Which of these was NOT an archaeological find associated with Lothal?
[SSC CHSL 2018]
A. Dock-like basin
B. Couple burial
C. Foreign seals
D. Exceptional superior barley as its defining discovery
Answer: D. Exceptional superior barley as its defining discovery
Explanation: Lothal is strongly associated with its dock-like structure, workshops, seals and burial evidence; superior barley is not considered one of its signature archaeological discoveries.
78. Which of the following Harappan sites is NOT in Gujarat?
[SSC CHSL 2018]
A. Lothal
B. Daimabad
C. Surkotada
D. Dholavira
Answer: B. Daimabad
Explanation: Daimabad is located in Maharashtra. Lothal, Surkotada and Dholavira are major Harappan sites situated in present-day Gujarat.
77. Which geographical feature helped Lothal become a maritime trading centre?
[SSC 2018]
A. Proximity to Gulf of Khambhat
B. Himalayan pass
C. Ganga delta
D. Deccan plateau interior
Answer: A. Proximity to Gulf of Khambhat
Explanation: Lothal lay close to waterways leading into the Gulf of Khambhat, allowing ships or smaller craft to connect inland Harappan commerce with coastal routes.
76. Which city marks an important eastern limit of Harappan expansion?
[SSC 2018]
A. Alamgirpur
B. Sutkagendor
C. Shortughai
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Alamgirpur
Explanation: Alamgirpur in western Uttar Pradesh is generally identified as the easternmost significant Harappan cultural site, illustrating the remarkable spatial reach of the civilization.
75. Which western Harappan site functioned near the Makran coast?
[PSC 2018]
A. Sutkagendor
B. Alamgirpur
C. Rakhigarhi
D. Banawali
Answer: A. Sutkagendor
Explanation: Sutkagendor was situated near the Makran coast close to the Iranian frontier, serving as an important western outpost in Harappan coastal and overland trade.
74. Which feature represents Harappan craft standardization?
[SSC 2018]
A. Precisely drilled beads
B. Iron cannon manufacture
C. Roman glass production
D. Paper-making
Answer: A. Precisely drilled beads
Explanation: Harappan bead-makers mastered cutting, polishing, heating and drilling semi-precious stones, producing highly standardized ornaments traded over considerable distances.
73. Which Harappan site is located on Khadir island in the Rann of Kutch?
[SSC 2018]
A. Dholavira
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira occupies Khadir Bet in the Great Rann of Kutch. Its arid setting encouraged the construction of exceptionally sophisticated water-harvesting installations.
72. Which material was the normal base of Harappan civilization rather than iron?
[SSC 2018]
A. Copper and bronze
B. Steel
C. Aluminium
D. Cast iron
Answer: A. Copper and bronze
Explanation: Copper and bronze formed the principal metallic technological base of Harappan society, while iron was absent from securely established mature Harappan contexts.
71. Which city is traditionally described as an important Harappan port?
[RRB 2018]
A. Lothal
B. Rakhigarhi
C. Banawali
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal combines a dock-like basin, warehouse-related structures and specialized craft activity, making it one of the strongest archaeological indicators of Harappan maritime trade.
70. Which settlement had important bead workshops?
[SSC 2018]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Manda
C. Alamgirpur
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Chanhudaro
Explanation: Chanhudaro contained numerous objects connected with bead production and other crafts, suggesting that specialized manufacturing rather than monumental public architecture dominated the settlement.
69. Harappan urban houses commonly included which sanitation feature?
[SSC 2018]
A. Bathrooms linked to drains
B. Iron sewage pipes
C. Roman aqueducts
D. No water outlet
Answer: A. Bathrooms linked to drains
Explanation: Many Harappan homes possessed bathing floors connected by small drains to covered street drains, demonstrating carefully organized household and municipal sanitation.
68. Which object best demonstrates Harappan bronze sculpture?
[SSC 2018]
A. Dancing Girl
B. Ashokan Lion Capital
C. Sanchi Yakshi
D. Nataraja of Chola period
Answer: A. Dancing Girl
Explanation: The bronze Dancing Girl from Mohenjo-daro is a small but technically accomplished cast sculpture and one of the most recognizable works of Harappan art.
2017
67. The Indus Valley Civilization belongs to which age?
[SSC CHSL 2017]
A. Bronze Age
B. Iron Age
C. Paleolithic Age
D. Mesolithic Age
Answer: A. Bronze Age
Explanation: Harappan society developed sophisticated copper and bronze metallurgy but lacked widespread iron technology, placing its mature urban phase firmly in the Bronze Age.
66. Who excavated Harappa in 1921?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Daya Ram Sahni
B. R. D. Banerji
C. S. R. Rao
D. Mortimer Wheeler
Answer: A. Daya Ram Sahni
Explanation: Daya Ram Sahni directed excavations at Harappa in 1921. The discoveries, followed by work at Mohenjo-daro, revealed the existence of a previously unknown urban civilization.
65. The name Mohenjo-daro means:
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Mound of the Dead
B. City of Kings
C. Sacred Port
D. Copper City
Answer: A. Mound of the Dead
Explanation: The modern Sindhi name Mohenjo-daro is conventionally translated as “Mound of the Dead”; the city’s original Harappan name cannot be recovered from its undeciphered inscriptions.
64. Which Harappan site was famous for pottery in an SSC question?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Kalibangan
B. Lothal
C. Dholavira
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Kalibangan produced distinctive ceramic assemblages spanning pre-Harappan and mature Harappan phases, alongside its better-known ploughed field and ritual fire installations.
63. Which Harappan site is famous for a dock or port?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Lothal
B. Kalibangan
C. Banawali
D. Rakhigarhi
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal’s large basin, maritime setting and commercial installations have led generations of archaeologists to identify the settlement as a major Harappan port.
62. Which Harappan site is famous for water conservation?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Dholavira
B. Harappa
C. Chanhudaro
D. Alamgirpur
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira harvested seasonal water through channels, dams and large reservoirs. Its system allowed a major urban centre to survive within the dry Kutch landscape.
61. Which city had no separately fortified citadel according to conventional Harappan descriptions?
[SSC CGL 2017]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Chanhudaro
Explanation: Chanhudaro differed from several large Harappan cities because archaeologists did not identify the standard elevated fortified citadel arrangement there.
60. Which Harappan site lies in Gujarat?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Surkotada
B. Harappa
C. Mohenjo-daro
D. Alamgirpur
Answer: A. Surkotada
Explanation: Surkotada is situated in Kutch, Gujarat. It was a fortified Harappan settlement and has generated archaeological discussion because of reported equid remains.
59. Where was a bronze chariot model of Harappan cultural association found?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Daimabad
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Banawali
Answer: A. Daimabad
Explanation: Daimabad in Maharashtra yielded a famous hoard of bronze objects, including a wheeled chariot-like composition, associated with the broader Late Harappan cultural horizon.
58. Which settlement is located in Afghanistan?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Shortughai
B. Lothal
C. Kalibangan
D. Harappa
Answer: A. Shortughai
Explanation: Shortughai represented the northeastern reach of Harappan commercial activity and stood close to important sources of lapis lazuli and Central Asian trade routes.
57. Which deity-like figure is commonly associated with a famous Harappan seal?
[SSC CGL 2017]
A. Pashupati-like figure
B. Krishna with flute
C. Buddha
D. Mahavira
Answer: A. Pashupati-like figure
Explanation: A seal from Mohenjo-daro shows a horned seated figure surrounded by animals. Earlier scholars interpreted it as a proto-Shiva or Pashupati figure, though interpretation remains debated.
56. Harappan society was primarily:
[SSC MTS 2017]
A. Urban
B. Exclusively nomadic
C. Cave-dwelling
D. Completely tribal
Answer: A. Urban
Explanation: Large planned settlements, specialized crafts, long-distance exchange and civic infrastructure clearly establish the mature Harappan Civilization as South Asia’s earliest major urban tradition.
55. Which civilization was particularly famous for systematic town planning?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Indus Valley Civilization
B. Mesolithic culture
C. Paleolithic culture
D. Megalithic culture
Answer: A. Indus Valley Civilization
Explanation: Harappan towns had regular street layouts, standardized construction, drainage networks and carefully differentiated neighbourhoods, demonstrating conscious planning on a large scale.
54. Which feature was NOT universal in major Harappan cities?
[SSC MTS 2017]
A. Irrigation canals
B. Baked-brick construction
C. Planned streets
D. Fortified sectors
Answer: A. Irrigation canals
Explanation: Urban planning, brick architecture and fortifications occur widely, whereas clear canal irrigation evidence is localized and cannot be treated as a universal Harappan urban feature.
53. Which metal was unknown to the Harappans?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Iron
B. Copper
C. Gold
D. Silver
Answer: A. Iron
Explanation: Mature Harappan artisans mastered copper, bronze and precious metals. Secure evidence for iron technology is absent and belongs primarily to subsequent archaeological periods.
52. The Indus script is:
[SSC MTS 2017]
A. Still undeciphered
B. Identical to Brahmi
C. Written in Devanagari
D. Fully translated
Answer: A. Still undeciphered
Explanation: Harappan inscriptions contain several hundred signs, but their language remains uncertain. Their brevity and absence of bilingual texts continue to prevent definitive decipherment.
51. Which city was situated on the Ravi?
[SSC MTS 2017]
A. Harappa
B. Mohenjo-daro
C. Lothal
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Harappa
Explanation: Harappa occupied a location near an old course of the Ravi in Punjab, providing access to fertile land and wider riverine communication networks.
50. Which city is traditionally interpreted as the major Harappan port?
[SSC MTS 2017]
A. Lothal
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Banawali
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: The brick-lined basin and commercial installations at Lothal, combined with its coastal geography, indicate an important role in maritime exchange.
49. Dholavira is located in:
[SSC MTS 2017]
A. Gujarat
B. Punjab
C. Haryana
D. Rajasthan
Answer: A. Gujarat
Explanation: Dholavira is situated on Khadir Bet in Gujarat’s Kutch region. Its reservoirs, stone architecture and distinctive city divisions make it a remarkable Harappan settlement.
48. Which site marks the eastern limit of the Harappan Civilization in traditional examination geography?
[SSC 2017]
A. Alamgirpur
B. Sutkagendor
C. Shortughai
D. Dholavira
Answer: A. Alamgirpur
Explanation: Alamgirpur in western Uttar Pradesh lies much farther east than the great Indus cities and preserves Late Harappan material culture.
47. Which civilization used baked-brick drainage systems extensively?
[SSC 2017]
A. Harappan Civilization
B. Paleolithic culture
C. Mesolithic culture
D. Early Stone Age
Answer: A. Harappan Civilization
Explanation: Harappan cities integrated household drains with covered street channels. Fired brick was particularly valuable where structures regularly came into contact with water.
46. Which site had the Great Bath?
[SSC CPO 2017]
A. Mohenjo-daro
B. Harappa
C. Lothal
D. Kalibangan
Answer: A. Mohenjo-daro
Explanation: The Great Bath occupied the elevated western sector of Mohenjo-daro and remains the civilization’s best-known example of monumental water architecture.
45. Which Harappan city was famous for extensive craft production but lacked monumental public structures comparable to Mohenjo-daro?
[SSC 2017]
A. Chanhudaro
B. Harappa
C. Dholavira
D. Kalibangan
Answer: A. Chanhudaro
Explanation: Chanhudaro contained specialized workshops for beads, shell objects and other manufactured goods, illustrating the economic role of smaller craft-focused Harappan settlements.
44. Which site is associated with a fossilized ploughed field?
[SSC 2017]
A. Kalibangan
B. Mohenjo-daro
C. Harappa
D. Lothal
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: The preserved field surface at Kalibangan contains intersecting furrows, providing unusually direct archaeological evidence for Harappan cultivation methods and possible mixed cropping.
43. Which region contained Dholavira?
[SSC 2017]
A. Rann of Kutch
B. Kashmir Valley
C. Ganga Delta
D. Malwa Plateau
Answer: A. Rann of Kutch
Explanation: Dholavira occupies Khadir island within the Rann of Kutch, where limited water availability stimulated the development of exceptional hydraulic engineering.
42. Harappan seals typically contain:
[SSC 2017]
A. Animal motifs and short inscriptions
B. Long Sanskrit poems
C. Quranic verses
D. Gupta royal genealogies
Answer: A. Animal motifs and short inscriptions
Explanation: Square steatite seals frequently combine one prominent animal with a brief line of Indus signs, probably serving administrative, commercial or identity-related functions.
41. Which animal motif occurs frequently on Harappan seals?
[SSC 2017]
A. So-called unicorn
B. Kangaroo
C. Polar bear
D. Giraffe
Answer: A. So-called unicorn
Explanation: The enigmatic one-horned “unicorn” is the most frequent seal motif, although its exact zoological or symbolic meaning remains uncertain.
40. Which evidence shows Harappan participation in maritime commerce?
[SSC 2017]
A. Lothal’s dock-like basin
B. Iron anchors from Harappa
C. Roman amphorae at Mohenjo-daro
D. Gupta coins at Dholavira
Answer: A. Lothal’s dock-like basin
Explanation: Lothal’s large basin, warehouse structures and coastal position strongly suggest commercial interaction through waterways connecting Gujarat with wider trading regions.
39. Which raw material was especially important for Harappan bead-making?
[SSC 2017]
A. Carnelian
B. Coal
C. Iron ore only
D. Petroleum
Answer: A. Carnelian
Explanation: Harappan bead-makers expertly treated, shaped, polished and drilled carnelian. Finished beads reached Mesopotamia, demonstrating both technical skill and international trade.
38. Harappan weights were commonly based on:
[SSC 2017]
A. Standardized units
B. Completely random values
C. Roman pounds
D. Modern kilograms
Answer: A. Standardized units
Explanation: Regular sequences of carefully shaped stone weights found throughout Harappan settlements reveal a sophisticated and standardized system supporting commerce and craft production.
37. Who first identified similarities between pre-Harappan and mature Harappan cultural remains?
[CDS-I 2016]
A. Amlanand Ghosh
B. R. D. Banerji
C. Daya Ram Sahni
D. John Marshall
Answer: A. Amlanand Ghosh
Explanation: Amlanand Ghosh’s archaeological work contributed greatly to identifying pre-Harappan cultural phases and understanding the developmental background of mature Harappan civilization.
36. Which statement regarding Harappan bricks is correct?
[CDS-II 2016]
A. Brick proportions showed considerable standardization
B. Every town used random brick dimensions
C. Only stone houses existed
D. Iron bricks were used
Answer: A. Brick proportions showed considerable standardization
Explanation: A standardized brick proportion, commonly about 1:2:4, occurs across many Harappan settlements and illustrates shared construction norms over an enormous geographical area.
35. Which civilization worshipped a figure conventionally identified as Pashupati?
[SSC CGL 2016]
A. Harappan Civilization
B. Gupta Civilization
C. Mauryan Civilization
D. Vedic Civilization only
Answer: A. Harappan Civilization
Explanation: A famous Mohenjo-daro seal shows a horned seated figure associated by earlier scholars with Pashupati, although its exact religious meaning cannot be established conclusively.
34. Which was the largest building traditionally identified at Mohenjo-daro?
[SSC CGL 2016]
A. Great Granary
B. Great Bath
C. Temple tower
D. Palace
Answer: A. Great Granary
Explanation: A very large structure at Mohenjo-daro has traditionally been called the Great Granary, although archaeologists continue to debate the precise functions of monumental Harappan buildings.
33. Harappan cities were primarily characterized by:
[RRB NTPC 2016]
A. Planned urban construction
B. Unplanned nomadic camps
C. Iron forts
D. Buddhist monasteries
Answer: A. Planned urban construction
Explanation: Regular streets, standardized bricks, drainage, wells and distinct urban sectors demonstrate deliberate planning and a substantial capacity to organize large settlements.
32. Which deity was NOT generally associated with Harappan worship in traditional exam interpretations?
[RRB NTPC 2016]
A. Vishnu
B. Mother Goddess
C. Pashupati-like figure
D. Sacred symbols
Answer: A. Vishnu
Explanation: Traditional Harappan interpretations emphasize fertility figurines, sacred trees, animals and a Pashupati-like figure. Explicit evidence of later developed Vaishnavism is absent.
31. Which site is associated with a dockyard and bead industry?
[SSC 2016]
A. Lothal
B. Harappa
C. Manda
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal combined commercial waterfront infrastructure with workshops producing beads and other goods, making it an important manufacturing and trading settlement.
30. Which settlement demonstrates Harappan presence in Rajasthan?
[SSC 2016]
A. Kalibangan
B. Harappa
C. Mohenjo-daro
D. Shortughai
Answer: A. Kalibangan
Explanation: Kalibangan lies in northern Rajasthan beside the Ghaggar system and preserves both early and mature Harappan phases together with important agricultural evidence.
29. Which material formed the bulk of ordinary Harappan construction?
[SSC 2016]
A. Mud and baked brick
B. Reinforced concrete
C. Iron sheets
D. Marble blocks only
Answer: A. Mud and baked brick
Explanation: Harappan builders used standardized mud bricks widely and fired bricks where greater durability or resistance to moisture was necessary, particularly in drains and bathrooms.
28. Which feature most distinguishes Harappan sanitation?
[SSC 2016]
A. Covered drainage system
B. Open refuse pits only
C. Absence of bathrooms
D. Aqueducts from mountains
Answer: A. Covered drainage system
Explanation: Street drains were carefully constructed, often covered and provided with inspection arrangements. Household bathing wastewater could flow into these organized municipal channels.
27. The Great Bath was discovered at:
[SSC CHSL 2015]
A. Mohenjo-daro
B. Lothal
C. Harappa
D. Kalibangan
Answer: A. Mohenjo-daro
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro’s Great Bath is a rectangular brick tank with staircases at both ends and waterproof construction, probably intended for controlled communal bathing.
26. The Harappan Civilization is associated with which age?
[CDS/NDA 2015]
A. Bronze Age
B. Iron Age
C. Paleolithic Age
D. Medieval Age
Answer: A. Bronze Age
Explanation: Copper-bronze metallurgy and the absence of regular iron use place mature Harappan civilization in the Bronze Age technological stage.
25. Which site was a major Harappan port?
[SSC 2015]
A. Lothal
B. Ropar
C. Harappa
D. Manda
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal’s coastal location, dock-like basin and warehouse-related structures make it the site most consistently associated with Harappan maritime commerce.
24. Which Harappan feature indicates standardized trade practices?
[SSC 2015]
A. Cubical weights
B. Iron currency
C. Paper money
D. Roman numerals
Answer: A. Cubical weights
Explanation: Precisely calibrated stone weights recur across Harappan settlements, enabling comparable measurements and supporting extensive commercial exchange across distant urban centres.
23. Which animal was not prominently represented on Harappan seals?
[SSC 2015]
A. Horse
B. Bull
C. Elephant
D. Rhinoceros
Answer: A. Horse
Explanation: Harappan seals frequently depict bulls, elephants and rhinoceroses, while definitive representations of domesticated horses are conspicuously absent from the standard corpus.
22. Consider the Harappan Civilization: it matured in Sindh and Punjab, spread south and east, and occupied an area larger than Egypt and Mesopotamia. Which statements are correct?
[NDA-II 2014]
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: Mature Harappan culture expanded far beyond its core Indus region into Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh, creating an exceptionally extensive cultural zone.
21. The basic strength of the Indus economy was:
[SSC CHSL 2014]
A. Agriculture
B. Hunting
C. Piracy
D. Forest gathering alone
Answer: A. Agriculture
Explanation: Agricultural surplus based principally on wheat, barley and other crops supported urban populations, artisans, administrators and traders throughout the Harappan settlement network.
20. Harappans are particularly noted as early cultivators of:
[SSC 2014]
A. Cotton
B. Tea
C. Coffee
D. Tobacco
Answer: A. Cotton
Explanation: Cotton cultivation and textile production are among the best-known economic achievements associated with the Harappans, whose fabrics probably circulated through long-distance trade.
19. Which statement best describes Harappan urbanism?
[PSC 2014]
A. Cities possessed planned streets and drainage
B. Settlements were entirely temporary camps
C. Houses lacked bricks
D. Agriculture was unknown
Answer: A. Cities possessed planned streets and drainage
Explanation: Excavated cities reveal coordinated layouts, standardized construction, private bathing facilities and drainage, all characteristic of a mature and organized urban society.
18. Which statement correctly characterizes the people of the Indus Civilization?
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2013]
A. They built confirmed gigantic temples and used horse chariots in warfare
B. They worshipped both male and female deities
C. They extensively used iron weapons
D. All statements are correct
Answer: B. They worshipped both male and female deities
Explanation: Archaeological remains suggest both male and female religious figures, whereas unequivocal monumental temples and evidence of horse-drawn war chariots are absent from mature Harappan sites.
17. The Indus script is best classified as:
[SSC CHSL 2013]
A. Undeciphered
B. Devanagari
C. Brahmi
D. Persian
Answer: A. Undeciphered
Explanation: Harappan symbols occur on seals, pottery and tablets, but scholars have not reached an accepted reading of their language or complete writing system.
16. Which site is famous for an ancient dock-like structure?
[PSC 2013]
A. Lothal
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Rakhigarhi
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: The substantial brick basin at Lothal is widely interpreted as a dockyard and remains a central piece of evidence for Harappan maritime trade.
15. Harappa stands on the bank of which river?
[CDS-I 2012]
A. Saraswati
B. Indus
C. Beas
D. Ravi
Answer: D. Ravi
Explanation: Harappa was established near an old Ravi channel in Punjab. Its riverine setting helped sustain agriculture, settlement and transport within the northern Harappan zone.
14. Which Harappan city was especially famous for water management?
[CDS-I 2012]
A. Dholavira
B. Harappa
C. Mohenjo-daro
D. Chanhudaro
Answer: A. Dholavira
Explanation: Dholavira contained numerous reservoirs and channels carefully integrated into its urban design, demonstrating exceptional adaptation to Kutch’s limited and seasonal water supply.
13. According to older interpretations, Harappan political organization was most likely:
[CDS-II 2012]
A. Theocratic-unitary
B. Parliamentary democracy
C. Tribal republic
D. Modern federation
Answer: A. Theocratic-unitary
Explanation: Some older archaeological interpretations inferred centralized politico-religious authority from cultural standardization, though modern scholarship remains cautious because no royal inscriptions or identifiable palaces survive.
12. Match Manda, Daimabad, Kalibangan and Rakhigarhi with their correct modern regions.
[UPPSC Prelims 2012]
A. Manda-Jammu; Daimabad-Maharashtra; Kalibangan-Rajasthan; Rakhigarhi-Haryana
B. All in Gujarat
C. All in Punjab
D. All in Pakistan
Answer: A. Manda-Jammu; Daimabad-Maharashtra; Kalibangan-Rajasthan; Rakhigarhi-Haryana
Explanation: These sites demonstrate Harappan civilization’s immense geographical range, stretching from Jammu in the north to Maharashtra and Gujarat in the south.
11. Which structure at Mohenjo-daro indicates ceremonial bathing?
[RRB/SSC 2012]
A. Great Bath
B. Dockyard
C. Fire altar
D. Rock-cut cave
Answer: A. Great Bath
Explanation: The brick tank’s waterproofing, stairs and surrounding rooms suggest planned communal use, commonly interpreted as ritual or ceremonial bathing.
10. A baked-clay model of a plough has been associated in examination literature with which Harappan settlement?
[NDA-I 2012]
A. Banawali
B. Mohenjo-daro
C. Harappa
D. Lothal
Answer: A. Banawali
Explanation: Banawali in Haryana has yielded terracotta plough models, important archaeological evidence for agricultural implements used within the broader Harappan cultural tradition.
9. Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider:
- It was predominantly secular in urban character, though religion existed.
- Cotton textiles were produced.
Which is correct?**
[UPSC CSE Prelims 2011]
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither
Answer: C. Both 1 and 2
Explanation: Harappan archaeology emphasizes civic and economic urban structures rather than monumental temples, while evidence confirms cultivation and use of cotton for textile production.
8. Which Harappan town is associated with a dockyard?
[SSC Stenographer 2011]
A. Lothal
B. Harappa
C. Kalibangan
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Lothal
Explanation: Lothal’s large basin and commercial installations, combined with its proximity to coastal waterways, strongly indicate an important maritime function.
7. Which economic activity was essential to sustaining Harappan cities?
[Railway 2011]
A. Agriculture
B. Exclusive hunting
C. Nomadic pastoralism alone
D. Forest gathering alone
Answer: A. Agriculture
Explanation: Intensive cultivation generated the food surplus needed to sustain large urban populations, specialized artisans, traders and other non-agricultural occupational groups.
6. Which statement about Harappan civilization is correct?
[CDS-I 2010]
A. Harappans cultivated and used cotton
B. They did not know copper
C. Their civilization was purely village-based
D. All standard seals were made of clay
Answer: A. Harappans cultivated and used cotton
Explanation: Archaeological evidence demonstrates cotton cultivation and textile production, while copper-bronze technology, urban settlements and steatite seals contradict the remaining statements.
5. The famous bronze statue of a dancing woman was discovered at:
[RPSC 2010]
A. Mohenjo-daro
B. Kalibangan
C. Harappa
D. Ropar
Answer: A. Mohenjo-daro
Explanation: Mohenjo-daro yielded the celebrated bronze Dancing Girl, whose confident posture and lost-wax casting illustrate the remarkable artistic and metallurgical ability of Harappan craftsmen.
4. Which rivers were included within the geographical setting of established Harappan civilization?
[UPPSC Prelims 2009]
A. Indus, Chenab and Jhelum
B. Ganga alone
C. Narmada and Tapi only
D. Krishna and Kaveri
Answer: A. Indus, Chenab and Jhelum
Explanation: The Harappan cultural zone occupied much of the Indus drainage and its tributaries, although its settlements eventually spread far beyond the Indus river system.
3. Which site provides a long cultural sequence from early farming communities toward the Harappan tradition?
[UPPSC Prelims 2008]
A. Mehrgarh
B. Lothal
C. Kalibangan
D. Chanhudaro
Answer: A. Mehrgarh
Explanation: Mehrgarh preserves a long sequence beginning with early Neolithic agriculture and pastoralism, making it crucial for understanding socioeconomic developments preceding mature Harappan urbanization.
2. Knowledge of the Indus Valley Civilization is derived principally from:
[RRB 2007]
A. Archaeological excavations
B. Vedic texts alone
C. Greek chronicles
D. Medieval inscriptions
Answer: A. Archaeological excavations
Explanation: Because the Harappan script remains unread, reconstruction depends overwhelmingly on excavated cities, artifacts, burials, environmental evidence and scientific analysis rather than deciphered historical literature.
1. Which famous artistic creation is associated with the people of the Indus Valley Civilization?
[SSC 2006]
A. Bronze Dancing Girl
B. Ashokan Lion Capital
C. Ajanta paintings
D. Chola Nataraja
Answer: A. Bronze Dancing Girl
Explanation: The bronze Dancing Girl from Mohenjo-daro is among the finest surviving examples of Harappan art and demonstrates sophisticated casting technology and naturalistic treatment of the human figure.