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The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation – CBSE NCERT Study Resources

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The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation

Study Materials

6th

6th - Social Studies (SST)

The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation

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Overview of the Chapter

This chapter explores the origins and early development of Indian civilisation, focusing on the Indus Valley Civilization and the Vedic period. It highlights the key features, cultural practices, and societal structures that shaped ancient India.

Indus Valley Civilization: One of the world's earliest urban civilizations, flourishing around 2500 BCE in the northwestern regions of the Indian subcontinent.

Key Topics Covered

  • Discovery and extent of the Indus Valley Civilization
  • Urban planning and architecture
  • Economic activities and trade
  • Decline of the Indus Valley Civilization
  • Transition to the Vedic period
  • Society and culture during the Vedic age

Indus Valley Civilization

The Indus Valley Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, was characterized by well-planned cities, advanced drainage systems, and a script that remains undeciphered. Major sites include Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro.

Vedic Period: The era following the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization, marked by the composition of the Vedas and the rise of early Hinduism.

Vedic Society and Culture

The Vedic period saw the emergence of a pastoral and agricultural society. The Rigveda, the oldest Vedic text, provides insights into the religious and social life of the time. The society was divided into varnas, and rituals played a central role.

Conclusion

The beginnings of Indian civilisation laid the foundation for the rich cultural and historical heritage of the subcontinent. The Indus Valley and Vedic periods were pivotal in shaping India's early societal and religious frameworks.

All Question Types with Solutions – CBSE Exam Pattern

Explore a complete set of CBSE-style questions with detailed solutions, categorized by marks and question types. Ideal for exam preparation, revision and practice.

Very Short Answer (1 Mark) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These are 1-mark questions requiring direct, concise answers. Ideal for quick recall and concept clarity.

Question 1:
What is the meaning of civilisation?
Answer:

A developed human society with culture and cities.

Question 2:
Name the earliest civilisation of India.
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilisation.

Question 3:
Which two rivers were important for the Indus Valley Civilisation?
Answer:

Indus and Ghaggar-Hakra.

Question 4:
What were the main occupations of Harappan people?
Answer:

Farming, trade, and crafts.

Question 5:
Name a famous Harappan city.
Answer:

Mohenjo-Daro.

Question 6:
What were Harappan seals made of?
Answer:

Steatite (a type of stone).

Question 7:
Why is the Great Bath important?
Answer:

It shows advanced water management.

Question 8:
Which metal was first used by Harappans?
Answer:

Copper.

Question 9:
What was the script of the Indus Valley called?
Answer:

Indus script (still undeciphered).

Question 10:
Name a Harappan crop.
Answer:

Wheat and barley.

Question 11:
What were Harappan houses made of?
Answer:

Baked bricks.

Question 12:
Which animal was worshipped in the Indus Valley?
Answer:

The unicorn (on seals).

Question 13:
Why did the Indus Valley Civilisation decline?
Answer:

Possible climate change or floods.

Question 14:
Name a Harappan trade item.
Answer:

Beads and pottery.

Question 15:
What is the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in Indian history?
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization is significant as it was one of the world's earliest urban civilizations, showcasing advanced town planning, drainage systems, and trade. It laid the foundation for later Indian cultures.

Question 16:
Name two major cities of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Answer:

The two major cities were Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro, known for their well-planned streets and architecture.

Question 17:
What were the main occupations of the people in the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:

The main occupations were agriculture, trade, craftsmanship (like pottery and bead-making), and animal husbandry.

Question 18:
Why is the Indus Valley script still undeciphered?
Answer:

The Indus Valley script remains undeciphered due to the lack of a Rosetta Stone-like bilingual inscription and the brevity of available texts.

Question 19:
What evidence suggests that the Indus Valley people traded with other civilizations?
Answer:

Archaeological findings like seals, pottery, and beads in Mesopotamia indicate trade links with other civilizations.

Question 20:
Describe one feature of the Great Bath found in Mohenjo-Daro.
Answer:

The Great Bath had a watertight structure made of bricks and a sophisticated drainage system, suggesting its use for rituals.

Question 21:
What materials were used to make tools in the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:

Tools were primarily made of copper, bronze, and stone, showing advanced metallurgical skills.

Question 22:
How did the Indus Valley people manage their water supply?
Answer:

They built wells, reservoirs, and an advanced drainage system to manage water efficiently.

Question 23:
Name one animal that was domesticated by the Indus Valley people.
Answer:

They domesticated cattle, which were used for agriculture and transportation.

Question 24:
What does the discovery of toys in the Indus Valley sites indicate?
Answer:

The discovery of toys like animal figurines and carts suggests that children had leisure activities and the society valued play.

Question 25:
Why is the Indus Valley Civilization also called the Harappan Civilization?
Answer:

It is named after Harappa, the first site where this civilization was discovered by archaeologists.

Question 26:
What was the likely reason for the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:

Possible reasons include climate change, droughts, or river shifts, leading to the abandonment of cities.

Very Short Answer (2 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 2-mark questions test key concepts in a brief format. Answers are expected to be accurate and slightly descriptive.

Question 1:
Name two important rivers associated with the Indus Valley Civilization.
Answer:

The two important rivers were the Indus and the Ghaggar-Hakra. These rivers supported agriculture and trade in the civilization.

Question 2:
Describe one feature of the Indus Valley cities that shows advanced planning.
Answer:

The cities had a grid-based layout with well-planned streets and drainage systems. Houses were made of baked bricks and had separate bathing areas.

Question 3:
What evidence suggests that the Indus Valley people traded with other regions?
Answer:

Archaeologists found seals, pottery, and beads from the Indus Valley in Mesopotamia. This proves they engaged in long-distance trade.

Question 4:
Why is the Great Bath of Mohenjo-Daro important?
Answer:

The Great Bath was a large public water tank, possibly used for religious rituals. It shows the importance of water management and cleanliness in the civilization.

Question 5:
Name one Indus Valley artifact that helps us understand their writing system.
Answer:

The seals with inscriptions and animal motifs are key artifacts. Though the script remains undeciphered, these seals suggest a form of written communication.

Question 6:
How did the Indus Valley people store their grains?
Answer:

They stored grains in granaries, like the one found in Harappa. These structures had raised platforms to protect grains from pests and floods.

Question 7:
What does the discovery of toys in the Indus Valley cities tell us about their society?
Answer:

The discovery of clay toys and games suggests that children had leisure time. It also reflects the craftsmanship and creativity of the people.

Question 8:
Why did the Indus Valley Civilization decline? Give one possible reason.
Answer:

One possible reason is climate change, which may have caused droughts and reduced river water. This disrupted agriculture and led to the civilization's decline.

Question 9:
Name the two major rivers associated with the Indus Valley Civilization.
Answer:

The two major rivers associated with the Indus Valley Civilization are the Indus and the Ghaggar-Hakra (ancient Sarasvati). These rivers provided water for agriculture and trade.

Question 10:
What is the significance of the Great Bath found in Mohenjo-Daro?
Answer:

The Great Bath was a large, watertight tank used for religious or ritual purposes. It shows the importance of cleanliness and advanced engineering skills of the Indus Valley people.

Question 11:
Name one important feature of the Indus Valley cities related to town planning.
Answer:

The cities had a grid-based layout, with well-planned streets and drainage systems. This shows their advanced urban planning skills.

Question 12:
What were seals used for in the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:

Seals were used for:

  • Trade (as marks of ownership)
  • Religious purposes (depicting animals and symbols)
They were usually made of steatite.

Question 13:
Why is the Indus Valley script still not fully deciphered?
Answer:

The Indus Valley script has not been fully deciphered because:

  • It has very short inscriptions
  • No bilingual texts (like the Rosetta Stone) have been found

Question 14:
Name two important sites of the Indus Valley Civilization other than Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa.
Answer:

Two important sites are:

  • Lothal (known for its dockyard)
  • Kalibangan (shows evidence of early ploughed fields)

Question 15:
How did the Indus Valley people dispose of their waste?
Answer:

They had a well-planned drainage system with covered drains running along the streets. Waste was carried away from houses, showing their focus on cleanliness.

Question 16:
What were the possible reasons for the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:

Possible reasons include:

  • Climate change (drying up of rivers)
  • Natural disasters (floods or earthquakes)
  • Invasion or migration by other groups

Question 17:
What type of houses did the Indus Valley people live in?
Answer:

They lived in well-planned houses made of baked bricks. Houses had:

  • Multiple rooms
  • Courtyards
  • Private wells and bathrooms

Short Answer (3 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 3-mark questions require brief explanations and help assess understanding and application of concepts.

Question 1:
What were the main features of the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization had several key features:

  • Urban Planning: Cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa had well-planned streets and drainage systems.
  • Trade: They traded with Mesopotamia and other regions, using seals for identification.
  • Script: They used a writing system that is still undeciphered.
  • Craftsmanship: Skilled in making pottery, jewelry, and metal tools.

These features show their advanced way of life.

Question 2:
Describe the importance of the Great Bath in Mohenjo-Daro.
Answer:

The Great Bath was a large, watertight tank found in Mohenjo-Daro. It was likely used for religious or ceremonial purposes, showing the importance of water in their culture. The bath had steps leading down, a sophisticated drainage system, and was made of bricks and tar to prevent leaks. This structure highlights their engineering skills and social organization.

Question 3:
How did the people of the Indus Valley Civilization practice agriculture?
Answer:

The people of the Indus Valley Civilization practiced agriculture by:

1. Using the fertile soil near the Indus River for growing crops like wheat and barley.
2. Building irrigation systems to water their fields.
3. Domesticating animals like cattle and buffalo for farming.

Their farming methods supported their large urban populations.

Question 4:
Why do historians believe that the Indus Valley Civilization had a strong central authority?
Answer:

Historians believe this because:

1. Cities had uniform weights and measures, suggesting standardized rules.
2. The layout of cities (like grids and drainage) required planning and control.
3. Large public structures like the Great Bath indicate organized labor.

These signs point to a powerful central authority managing the civilization.

Question 5:
Why is the Harappan script considered a mystery?
Answer:

The Harappan script is a mystery because:

  • It has not been deciphered yet due to the lack of a Rosetta Stone-like key.
  • The inscriptions are very short, mostly on seals and pottery.
  • No bilingual texts (like in Egyptian hieroglyphs) have been found to help decode it.

Scholars believe it may represent a Dravidian language, but this is still unconfirmed.

Question 6:
Describe the significance of the Great Bath in Mohenjo-Daro.
Answer:

The Great Bath was a large, watertight tank in Mohenjo-Daro. Its significance includes:

  • It may have been used for ritual bathing or religious ceremonies.
  • Shows advanced engineering skills with a complex drainage system.
  • Indicates the importance of water management in Harappan culture.

It reflects the civilization's focus on cleanliness and urban planning.

Question 7:
How did the Harappans practice agriculture?
Answer:

The Harappans practiced agriculture using:

  • Irrigation systems like canals to water crops.
  • Cultivation of wheat, barley, peas, and sesame.
  • Domestication of animals like cattle, sheep, and goats.
  • Use of ploughs made of wood or stone.

Their farming supported large urban populations and trade.

Question 8:
Explain the possible reasons for the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization.
Answer:

Possible reasons for the decline include:

  • Climate change leading to droughts and reduced river water.
  • Floods damaging cities and farmlands.
  • Deforestation causing ecological imbalance.
  • Invasion or migration by other groups disrupting the society.

These factors likely combined to weaken the civilization over time.

Long Answer (5 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 5-mark questions are descriptive and require detailed, structured answers with proper explanation and examples.

Question 1:
Describe the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in the beginnings of Indian civilisation. Highlight its key features.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Indus Valley Civilization (2600-1900 BCE) was one of the earliest urban cultures. Our textbook shows it flourished along the Indus River.

Key Developments
  • Planned cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa with grid layouts.
  • Advanced drainage systems and brick houses.
  • Trade with Mesopotamia, evidenced by seals.
Socio-economic Impact

It had a prosperous economy based on agriculture and crafts like pottery.

Current Relevance

Modern urban planning draws inspiration from its systematic designs.

Question 2:
Explain how the Vedic period contributed to the cultural foundations of India. Provide examples.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Vedic period (1500-500 BCE) began with the arrival of the Aryans. We studied their hymns in the Rigveda.

Key Developments
  • Composition of the four Vedas, forming early Hindu scriptures.
  • Introduction of the varna system and rituals like yajnas.
  • Use of iron tools for agriculture.
Socio-economic Impact

It laid the groundwork for Sanskrit language and social structures.

Current Relevance

Vedic traditions still influence festivals and prayers today.

Question 3:
Compare the Harappan and Vedic lifestyles based on their housing, food, and occupations.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Harappan and Vedic people lived in different eras with distinct lifestyles.

Key Developments
FeatureHarappanVedic
HousingBrick houses with drainageThatched huts
FoodWheat, barleyMilk, ghee, grains
OccupationsTraders, craftsmenFarmers, priests
Socio-economic Impact

Harappans were urban, while Vedic people were rural and pastoral.

Current Relevance

Both cultures shaped India’s diversity.

Question 4:
How did the geographical features of India influence the early settlements? Give three examples.
Answer:
Historical Context

India’s geography played a vital role in early settlements. Our textbook shows rivers were crucial.

Key Developments
  • The Indus River supported Harappan cities with water and fertile soil.
  • The Ganga-Yamuna plains became the heart of Vedic culture.
  • The Deccan Plateau had mineral resources for trade.
Socio-economic Impact

Farming and trade thrived near rivers and coasts.

Current Relevance

Many modern cities are still located near these ancient sites.

Question 5:
Discuss the role of trade in the growth of early Indian civilisations. Mention three traded items.
Answer:
Historical Context

Trade was vital for early Indian civilisations. We studied how Harappans traded with distant lands.

Key Developments
  • Harappans exported beads, cotton cloth, and pottery to Mesopotamia.
  • They imported gold and silver from Afghanistan.
  • Vedic people traded cattle and grains locally.
Socio-economic Impact

Trade boosted economies and cultural exchanges.

Current Relevance

India still relies on trade, just like in ancient times.

Question 6:
Explain the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in the beginnings of Indian civilisation. Highlight its urban planning and trade systems.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Indus Valley Civilization (2600-1900 BCE) was one of the earliest urban cultures. Our textbook shows it flourished along the Indus River.

Key Developments
  • Advanced urban planning with grid systems and drainage.
  • Trade networks extended to Mesopotamia, evidenced by seals.
  • Craft specialization in pottery and metallurgy.
Socio-economic Impact

It supported a stable economy and social hierarchy. Farmers grew wheat, while artisans crafted jewelry.

Current Relevance

Modern cities like Mohenjo-Daro inspire urban designs today.

Question 7:
Describe the role of agriculture in the growth of early Indian civilisations. Provide examples from the Vedic period.
Answer:
Historical Context

Agriculture began in the Neolithic Age. Our textbook shows it became vital in the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE).

Key Developments
  • Cultivation of rice, barley, and wheat.
  • Use of iron tools for clearing forests.
  • Domestication of cattle for ploughing.
Socio-economic Impact

Surplus food led to population growth and trade. Villages expanded into towns.

Current Relevance

Farming remains India's primary occupation, linking past to present.

Question 8:
How did the Harappan script and seals contribute to our understanding of their culture? Give three examples.
Answer:
Historical Context

The Harappans used an undeciphered script and seals for trade and communication.

Key Developments
  • Seals depicted animals like bulls and unicorns.
  • Script appears on pottery and copper tablets.
  • Seals found in Mesopotamia prove trade links.
Socio-economic Impact

They suggest a literate society with administrative systems.

Current Relevance

Archaeologists still study these artifacts to decode Harappan life.

Question 9:
Compare the religious practices of the Indus Valley and Vedic civilisations. Mention three differences.
Answer:
Historical Context

Indus Valley worshipped nature, while Vedic people praised gods like Indra.

Key Developments
  • Indus seals show Pashupati, possibly an early Shiva.
  • Vedic hymns focused on fire sacrifices (yajnas).
  • No temples in Indus; Vedas describe rituals.
Socio-economic Impact

Religion shaped social norms and leadership in both eras.

Current Relevance

Hinduism today blends elements from both traditions.

Question 10:
Analyze the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization. Discuss three theories from our textbook.
Answer:
Historical Context

Around 1900 BCE, cities like Mohenjo-Daro were abandoned.

Key Developments
  • Climate change may have dried rivers.
  • Invasion theories suggest Aryan migrations.
  • Earthquakes or floods could have disrupted trade.
Socio-economic Impact

Urban life collapsed, pushing people to rural areas.

Current Relevance

Similar environmental challenges affect modern cities too.

Question 11:
Describe the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in the development of early Indian society. Highlight its key features and how they influenced later cultures.
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest urban civilizations, played a crucial role in shaping early Indian society. Its significance lies in its advanced urban planning, trade networks, and cultural practices.

Key features:

  • Urban Planning: Cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa had well-laid streets, drainage systems, and brick houses, showing a high level of engineering skills.
  • Trade and Economy: The civilization engaged in trade with Mesopotamia, exporting goods like cotton and beads, indicating a prosperous economy.
  • Art and Craft: Seals, pottery, and jewelry reflect their artistic skills and cultural richness.

Influence on later cultures: The emphasis on cleanliness (seen in drainage systems) and urban planning influenced later Indian societies. The use of standardized weights and measures continued in subsequent civilizations, showcasing their lasting impact.

Question 12:
Explain the role of agriculture in the growth of early Indian civilizations, with special reference to the Vedic period. How did it shape their lifestyle and economy?
Answer:

Agriculture was the backbone of early Indian civilizations, especially during the Vedic period, as it provided food security and supported economic growth.

Role in the Vedic period:

  • Crop Cultivation: People grew crops like barley, wheat, and rice, using wooden plows and irrigation techniques.
  • Settlement Patterns: Fertile land near rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna led to permanent settlements, reducing nomadic lifestyles.
  • Economic Stability: Surplus production allowed trade and the rise of artisans, creating a diversified economy.

Impact on lifestyle: Agriculture led to the development of villages and later towns. The Vedas mention rituals for good harvests, showing its cultural importance. The barter system emerged, linking farming communities with traders and craftsmen.

Question 13:
Describe the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in the development of early Indian culture. Highlight its key features and contributions.
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest urban civilizations, played a crucial role in shaping early Indian culture. It flourished around 2500 BCE along the banks of the Indus River and its tributaries.

Key features:

  • Urban Planning: Cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa had well-planned streets, drainage systems, and brick houses.
  • Trade and Economy: People traded with Mesopotamia and other regions, using seals and weights for commerce.
  • Craftsmanship: Skilled artisans made pottery, jewelry, and metal tools.

Contributions:

  • Advanced sanitation systems set a benchmark for future civilizations.
  • The use of standardized weights and measures helped in trade and administration.
  • Their script, though undeciphered, shows early attempts at writing.

This civilization laid the foundation for later Indian cultural and technological advancements.

Question 14:
Explain how the geographical features of ancient India influenced the growth of early civilizations like the Indus Valley and Vedic cultures.
Answer:

The geographical features of ancient India, such as rivers, fertile plains, and climate, greatly influenced the growth of early civilizations.

Indus Valley Civilization:

  • The Indus River provided water for agriculture, enabling surplus food production.
  • Fertile soil allowed the growth of crops like wheat and barley, supporting large populations.
  • The location near trade routes facilitated commerce with other regions.

Vedic Culture:

  • The Gangetic Plains offered rich soil for farming, leading to settled communities.
  • Forests provided resources like timber and herbs, mentioned in Vedic texts.
  • Rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna were considered sacred, shaping religious practices.

These geographical advantages helped early civilizations thrive and develop unique cultural identities.

Question 15:
Describe the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in understanding the beginnings of Indian civilization. Support your answer with examples of their urban planning and craftsmanship.
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) is one of the world's earliest urban civilizations and provides deep insights into the beginnings of Indian civilization. Its significance lies in its advanced urban planning, trade networks, and craftsmanship, which set a foundation for later Indian cultures.

Urban Planning: Cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa had well-planned grids, with streets laid out in a perfect right-angle pattern. They also had advanced drainage systems, showing a high level of engineering skills.

Craftsmanship: The people of IVC were skilled in making pottery, beads, and seals. For example, the famous Pashupati Seal depicts a yogic figure, possibly an early form of Lord Shiva, indicating religious practices.

Thus, the IVC helps us understand how early Indians lived, worked, and organized their society, making it a cornerstone of Indian history.

Question 16:
Explain how the Vedic period contributed to the cultural and social development of early Indian civilization. Highlight key aspects like the Vedas, social structure, and religious practices.
Answer:

The Vedic period played a crucial role in shaping early Indian civilization through its religious texts, social systems, and cultural practices.

The Vedas: The four Vedas—Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda—are the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism. They contain hymns, rituals, and philosophies that influenced Indian thought.

Social Structure: The Vedic society was divided into four varnas—Brahmins (priests), Kshatriyas (warriors), Vaishyas (farmers/traders), and Shudras (servants). This system later evolved into the caste system.

Religious Practices: People worshipped nature gods like Indra (god of rain) and Agni (god of fire). Rituals like yajnas (fire sacrifices) were common, emphasizing the importance of harmony with nature.

Overall, the Vedic period laid the foundation for India's spiritual and social traditions, which continue to influence modern Indian culture.

Question 17:
Describe the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in the development of early Indian society. Highlight at least three major contributions of this civilization.
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest urban civilizations, played a crucial role in shaping early Indian society. Here are three major contributions:

  • Urban Planning: Cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa had well-planned layouts with grid systems, advanced drainage, and brick houses, showing high engineering skills.
  • Trade and Economy: The civilization had a thriving trade network, exchanging goods like beads, pottery, and metals with regions like Mesopotamia, boosting economic growth.
  • Art and Craft: Skilled artisans created seals, pottery, and jewelry, reflecting a rich cultural and artistic tradition.

These contributions laid the foundation for future Indian civilizations in terms of governance, economy, and culture.

Question 18:
Explain how the geographical features of the Indus Valley supported the growth of a prosperous civilization. Provide examples to support your answer.
Answer:

The Indus Valley's geography played a key role in its prosperity due to the following factors:

  • Fertile Land: The Indus River provided rich silt deposits, making the soil ideal for farming crops like wheat and barley, ensuring food surplus.
  • Water Supply: The river and its tributaries supplied water for drinking, irrigation, and trade, supporting large populations.
  • Natural Protection: Surrounded by deserts, mountains, and the sea, the region was shielded from invasions, allowing peaceful growth.

For example, cities like Lothal thrived due to access to the sea for trade, while Kalibangan benefited from fertile plains. These features made the Indus Valley a cradle of early civilization.

Question 19:
Describe the significance of the Indus Valley Civilization in the development of early Indian culture. Highlight at least three key features of this civilization.
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest urban civilizations, played a crucial role in shaping early Indian culture. It flourished around 2500 BCE along the banks of the Indus River and showcased advanced planning and organization.

Three key features of this civilization include:

  • Urban Planning: Cities like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa had well-laid streets, drainage systems, and brick houses, indicating a high level of civic organization.
  • Trade and Economy: The civilization engaged in extensive trade with regions like Mesopotamia, exporting goods like cotton and beads, which boosted economic growth.
  • Art and Craft: Skilled artisans produced pottery, seals, and jewelry, reflecting their creativity and craftsmanship.

These features not only highlight their technological advancements but also their contributions to later Indian cultures.

Question 20:
Explain how the geographical features of the Indian subcontinent influenced the growth of early civilizations like the Harappan and Vedic cultures.
Answer:

The geographical features of the Indian subcontinent, such as rivers, fertile plains, and climate, greatly influenced the growth of early civilizations.

Rivers: The Indus and Ganges rivers provided water for irrigation, transportation, and fertile soil for agriculture, which supported large populations.

Fertile Plains: The Indo-Gangetic Plain allowed for surplus food production, enabling the growth of cities and trade networks.

Climate: The monsoon rains ensured consistent water supply for crops, while the varied terrain (mountains, forests) offered resources like timber and minerals.

For example, the Harappan civilization thrived near the Indus River, while the Vedic culture expanded in the Gangetic plains. These geographical advantages were vital for their survival and progress.

Case-based Questions (4 Marks) – with Solutions (CBSE Pattern)

These 4-mark case-based questions assess analytical skills through real-life scenarios. Answers must be based on the case study provided.

Question 1:
The Indus Valley Civilization had well-planned cities. Case Context: Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro had drainage systems.
How did this help people? Give two examples of modern cities using similar ideas.
Answer:
Case Context: We studied that Harappa had covered drains to keep cities clean.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Drains prevented diseases by removing waste.
  • Modern cities like Chandigarh use underground drainage.
Current Relevance:

Today, cities like Surat reuse wastewater for gardens, just like Indus people reused water.

Question 2:
Farmers in ancient India grew wheat and barley. Case Context: They used wooden ploughs.
Compare their tools with modern farmers. Name two crops still grown today.
Answer:
Case Context: Our textbook shows ancient farmers used stone and wood tools.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Now, tractors replace ploughs for faster work.
  • Wheat and rice are still major crops.
Current Relevance:

In Punjab, farmers use machines, but small farms in Bihar still use bullocks.

Question 3:
The Vedas were composed in Sanskrit. Case Context: Rigveda describes rivers like Saraswati.
How do these texts help us today? Give two ways we preserve history.
Answer:
Case Context: Vedas tell us about old rivers and gods.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • They show how people lived 3,000 years ago.
  • Museums like National Museum keep old scripts.
Current Relevance:

Schools teach Sanskrit, and archaeologists use Vedas to find ancient sites.

Question 4:
Early humans painted cave walls. Case Context: Bhimbetka caves have animal drawings.
Why did they paint? Name two states with such caves.
Answer:
Case Context: We learned Bhimbetka paintings are 30,000 years old.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • They painted to show hunts or rituals.
  • Caves exist in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Current Relevance:

Tourists visit these caves, and artists still use similar patterns.

Question 5:
The Indus Valley Civilization had well-planned cities. Case Context: Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro had drainage systems.
How did this help people? Give examples of similar systems today.
Answer:
Case Context: We studied that Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro had advanced drainage systems.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Drains kept cities clean and prevented diseases.
  • Our textbook shows baked clay pipes were used.
Current Relevance:

Today, cities like Delhi use underground drainage. Ancient systems inspire modern sanitation.

Examples:
  • Harappa's covered drains
  • Mohenjo-Daro's street drains
  • Modern sewage plants
Question 6:
Farmers in the Indus Valley grew wheat and barley. Case Context: They used fertile soil near rivers.
How did geography help farming? Compare with present-day Punjab.
Answer:
Case Context: Indus farmers relied on river soil.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Floods deposited fertile silt.
  • Our textbook shows irrigation canals were built.
Current Relevance:

Punjab grows similar crops today using tubewells. Rivers still support farming.

Examples:
  • Indus wheat fields
  • Ancient granaries
  • Punjab's 'Green Revolution'
Question 7:
Archaeologists found seals in the Indus Valley. Case Context: These show animal figures and writing.
What do seals tell us? Give examples of modern symbols.
Answer:
Case Context: Seals were used for trade and identity.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Shows trade networks existed.
  • Our textbook has unicorn seal pictures.
Current Relevance:

Today, logos like Amul butter use animal symbols. Seals were ancient trademarks.

Examples:
  • Pashupati seal
  • Bull seals
  • Company logos
Question 8:
The Great Bath was found in Mohenjo-Daro. Case Context: It had waterproof bricks.
Why was it important? Compare with modern water tanks.
Answer:
Case Context: The Great Bath was a public water tank.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Used for rituals and bathing.
  • Our textbook shows its careful design.
Current Relevance:

Today, stepwells like Rani-ki-Vav serve similar purposes. Water conservation matters then and now.

Examples:
  • Great Bath's drainage
  • Ancient water storage
  • Modern overhead tanks
Question 9:
The Indus Valley Civilization had well-planned cities. Case Context: Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro had drainage systems.
How did this help people? Give two examples of modern cities using similar planning.
Answer:
Case Context: We studied that Harappa had covered drains.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Drains kept cities clean, preventing diseases.
  • Brick-lined roads helped in easy movement.
Current Relevance: Modern cities like Chandigarh and Jaipur use grid patterns.

Our textbook shows how cleanliness was important then, just like Swachh Bharat today.

Question 10:
Farmers in the Vedic Age grew crops like barley. Case Context: They used wooden ploughs.
How did this help agriculture? Compare it with two modern farming tools.
Answer:
Case Context: We learned that wooden ploughs broke soil easily.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Ploughs made farming faster.
  • Barley grew well in fertile soil.
Current Relevance: Today, farmers use tractors and seed drills.

Our textbook shows how tools improved from wood to iron, just like modern machines.

Question 11:
The Rigveda mentions rivers like Saraswati. Case Context: Rivers were important for settlements.
Why did people live near rivers? Name two present-day cities on riverbanks.
Answer:
Case Context: We studied that rivers provided water and fertile land.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • People grew crops like wheat near rivers.
  • Rivers helped in trade and transport.
Current Relevance: Cities like Varanasi (Ganga) and Ahmedabad (Sabarmati) still depend on rivers.

Our textbook shows how rivers shaped civilizations then and now.

Question 12:
Archaeologists found seals in Harappa. Case Context: These seals had animal figures.
What were they used for? Give two examples of modern symbols used similarly.
Answer:
Case Context: We learned that seals were used for trade.
Historical/Geographical Analysis:
  • Seals showed ownership of goods.
  • Animals like bulls were carved on them.
Current Relevance: Today, logos (Amazon’s arrow) and trademarks (Nike’s swoosh) represent brands.

Our textbook shows how symbols helped identify things, just like now.

Question 13:

Read the following case study and answer the question:

Archaeologists discovered ancient pottery and tools near the banks of the Indus River. These artifacts had intricate designs and were made of baked clay. They also found remains of a well-planned city with streets laid out in a grid pattern.

Question: Based on the findings, what can you infer about the people of the Indus Valley Civilization? Explain any two features that highlight their advanced way of life.

Answer:

The discoveries suggest that the people of the Indus Valley Civilization were highly skilled and organized. Two key features that highlight their advanced way of life are:

  • Urban Planning: The grid-patterned streets indicate that they had a well-planned drainage system and organized city layouts, showing their knowledge of engineering and town planning.
  • Craftsmanship: The intricately designed pottery and tools made of baked clay reflect their expertise in pottery-making and the use of advanced techniques like firing clay at high temperatures.

These features prove that the civilization was technologically advanced and had a systematic approach to living.

Question 14:

Read the following case study and answer the question:

Farmers in the early Indian civilization grew crops like wheat, barley, and cotton. They used wooden ploughs and irrigation methods to enhance agricultural productivity. They also domesticated animals like cows and buffaloes.

Question: How did agriculture contribute to the growth of early Indian civilizations? Explain two ways in which farming supported their society.

Answer:

Agriculture played a crucial role in the growth of early Indian civilizations in the following ways:

  • Food Security: Growing crops like wheat and barley ensured a steady food supply, allowing the population to settle in one place and develop permanent settlements.
  • Economic Growth: Surplus production of crops and cotton enabled trade with other regions, boosting the economy. Domesticated animals like cows and buffaloes provided milk, labor, and other resources, supporting daily life.

Thus, agriculture was the backbone of their society, leading to stability and progress.

Question 15:

Read the following case study and answer the question:

Archaeologists discovered ancient tools and pottery near the banks of the Indus River. These artifacts had intricate designs and were made of baked clay. They also found remains of well-planned cities with drainage systems.

Question: Based on the findings, what does this tell us about the people of the Indus Valley Civilization? Provide two key points.

Answer:

The discoveries reveal the following about the Indus Valley Civilization:

  • Advanced Craftsmanship: The intricate designs on pottery and tools indicate that the people were skilled in art and technology, using baked clay for durability.
  • Urban Planning: The well-planned cities with drainage systems show that they had a strong understanding of engineering and hygiene, making them one of the earliest organized civilizations.

These findings highlight their scientific and cultural progress.

Question 16:

Read the case study below and answer the question:

Farmers in the Indus Valley grew wheat, barley, and cotton. They used tools like ploughs and stored grains in granaries. Trade was also an important activity, as seals found in Mesopotamia suggest.

Question: How did agriculture and trade contribute to the growth of the Indus Valley Civilization? Explain in two ways.

Answer:

Agriculture and trade played a crucial role in the growth of the Indus Valley Civilization:

  • Food Security: Farming crops like wheat and barley ensured a stable food supply, allowing the population to grow and cities to flourish.
  • Economic Prosperity: Trade with distant regions like Mesopotamia (evidenced by seals) brought wealth and cultural exchange, helping the civilization expand its influence.

These activities made the Indus Valley a thriving and well-connected civilization.

Question 17:
Read the following case: Archaeologists found ancient pottery, tools, and remains of houses in a village near the Indus River. These findings suggest a well-planned settlement. Based on this, answer: What does the discovery of planned settlements tell us about the Harappan Civilisation?
Answer:

The discovery of planned settlements in the Harappan Civilisation shows that the people were highly advanced in urban planning and engineering. Their cities had:

  • Well-laid streets in a grid pattern
  • Advanced drainage systems
  • Standardized bricks for construction

This indicates a strong central authority and a society that valued cleanliness and organization. The use of uniform weights and measures further proves their systematic way of life.

Question 18:
A student visits the National Museum and observes seals with animal figures and a script from the Indus Valley. The guide explains these were used for trade. How do these Indus seals provide evidence of the economic activities of that time?
Answer:

The Indus seals found at various sites reveal important details about the economic activities of the Harappan people:

  • They were likely used as trade markers or for identification of goods.
  • The animal figures (like bulls and unicorns) suggest artistic skills and possibly religious beliefs.
  • The undeciphered script indicates a system of record-keeping for trade.

These seals have been found in Mesopotamia, proving that the Harappans engaged in long-distance trade, showing their advanced economic network.

Question 19:
Read the following case: Archaeologists found ancient pottery and tools near the Indus River. These artifacts had intricate designs and were made with advanced techniques. Based on this, answer: What does this discovery tell us about the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer:

The discovery of intricately designed pottery and advanced tools near the Indus River reveals several key aspects of the Indus Valley Civilization:

  • Craftsmanship: The people were skilled in making pottery and tools, showing their expertise in art and technology.
  • Trade: The advanced techniques suggest they might have traded with other regions to acquire new methods.
  • Daily Life: The pottery designs indicate a sense of aesthetics and possibly religious or cultural significance.

This discovery highlights that the Indus Valley Civilization was highly developed and organized.

Question 20:
A group of students visited the ruins of an ancient city with well-planned streets and drainage systems. Their teacher explained that this city belonged to one of the earliest civilizations in India. Identify the civilization and describe two features that made its cities unique.
Answer:

The civilization described is the Indus Valley Civilization. Two unique features of its cities were:

  • Well-Planned Streets: The cities had grid-like patterns, with streets intersecting at right angles, showing advanced urban planning.
  • Drainage Systems: They had covered drains made of bricks, ensuring proper sanitation and hygiene, which was rare in ancient times.

These features prove that the Indus Valley Civilization was ahead of its time in terms of infrastructure and cleanliness.

Question 21:
Read the following case study:
Archaeologists found ancient pottery, beads, and tools near the banks of the Indus River. These artifacts show advanced craftsmanship and trade links with other regions.
Based on this, explain how the Indus Valley Civilization was an advanced society. Support your answer with evidence from the case study.
Answer:

The Indus Valley Civilization was an advanced society due to its well-developed craftsmanship, trade networks, and urban planning. The discovery of pottery, beads, and tools near the Indus River shows their skilled artisanship. These artifacts were made with precision, indicating advanced techniques.

Evidence from the case study includes:

  • Pottery and Beads: These were often decorated and uniform in shape, suggesting mass production and artistic skills.
  • Trade Links: Materials like lapis lazuli (found in beads) were imported from distant regions, proving trade connections.
  • Tools: Well-crafted tools indicate knowledge of metallurgy and efficient resource use.

Thus, the civilization was advanced in technology, economy, and culture.

Question 22:
A group of students visited an excavation site where they saw remains of a planned city with drainage systems and brick houses. Their teacher explained that these were features of the Harappan Civilization.
How does the urban planning of the Harappan Civilization reflect their intelligence and social organization?
Answer:

The urban planning of the Harappan Civilization reflects their high intelligence and strong social organization. Their cities were carefully designed with:

  • Grid Layout: Streets were laid out in straight lines, intersecting at right angles, showing systematic planning.
  • Drainage Systems: Covered drains along streets indicate knowledge of sanitation and public health.
  • Standardized Bricks: Houses were made of uniformly sized baked bricks, proving advanced construction techniques.

These features suggest:

  • A centralized authority to enforce planning rules.
  • Cooperation among citizens for maintaining cleanliness.
  • Engineering skills to build durable structures.

Thus, the Harappans were highly organized and intelligent in city planning.

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