Rakhigarhi human remains sent for advanced scientific study to AnSI

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has transferred human skeletal remains excavated from the Indus-Saraswati Civilization site of Rakhigarhi (Haryana) to the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) for advanced scientific research.

• The transfer aims to facilitate multidisciplinary studies using modern scientific techniques to better understand the lives of the Harappan people.

About Rakhigarhi

• Located in Hisar district, Haryana.
• Spread over nearly 550 hectares.
• Considered the largest known settlement of the Indus-Saraswati (Harappan) Civilization.
• Occupied during both the Early Harappan and Mature Harappan phases.

Key Archaeological Findings

• Well-planned urban settlements.
• Advanced drainage systems.
• Craft production centres.
• Extensive trade networks.
• Burial grounds.
• During the 2025–26 excavation season, eight burials were excavated from Mound No. 7, identified as an ancient cemetery.

Scientific Studies to be Undertaken

The skeletal remains will be examined using modern scientific techniques, including:

• Ancient DNA (aDNA) analysis – to study ancestry, genetic relationships, and population history.
• Stable isotope analysis – to reconstruct diet, mobility, and climatic conditions.
• Osteological analysis – to assess age, sex, stature, and skeletal characteristics.
• Palaeopathological studies – to identify diseases, injuries, nutritional deficiencies, and health conditions.
• Environmental reconstruction – to understand the interaction between humans and their surrounding environment.

Expected Outcomes

The research is expected to provide insights into:

• Genetic ancestry and population history.
• Dietary habits and subsistence practices.
• Disease patterns and overall health.
• Human migration and mobility.
• Social and environmental adaptations nearly 5,000 years ago.

Significance

• Enhances understanding of the Indus-Saraswati Civilization through scientific archaeology.
• Strengthens India’s capabilities in ancient DNA (aDNA) and bioarchaeological research.
• Promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among national scientific institutions.
• Contributes to reconstructing the biological, cultural, and environmental history of one of the world’s earliest urban civilizations.

Source: PIB

CLICK HERE: UPSC PRELIMS & MAINS CURRENT AFFAIRS BASED MONTHLY TEST SERIES PDF

CLICK HERE FOR GS TIMES PRAHAR UPSC MAINS TEST SERIES 

CLICK HERE: DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS QUIZ (FOR ALL EXAMINATIONS)