Rakhigarhi Findings

• 20 Apr 2024

Why in News?

One of the recent changes in school textbooks proposed by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) includes adding information about the results of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis on skeletal remains discovered at the ancient site of Rakhigarhi in Haryana.

• Additionally, references to the negative impact of the Narmada Dam project on tribals, causing displacement and increased poverty, have been removed.

Key Points

• NCERT has stated that study of ancient DNA from archaeological sources in Rakhigarhi, Haryana suggests that the genetic roots of the Harappans go back to 10,000 BCE.
• Rakhigarhi is the largest Harappan site in the Indian subcontinent. The site is situated in the plains of Saraswati river, about 27 km from the seasonal Ghaggar river.
  • To study its evolution from 6000 BC (Pre-Harappan phase) to 2500 BC, excavations were carried out at Rakhigarhi under the leadership of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) archaeologist Amarendra Nath.
• Prof. Shinde played an important role in the research related to Rakhigarhi. Prof. Shinde is also writing a book 'History of India' on these researches related to Indian history.
• Pro. Shinde said-
  • The DNA report of the remains, evidence and skeletons found in the excavations at Rakhigarhi, Lothal Gilund, Nujat etc. has proved that the Harappan civilization was the oldest and most developed civilization in the world.
  • The theory of Aryan invasion and coming from outside is fabricated and false, which has been confirmed on the basis of archaeological and scientific verification of DNA.

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

• ASI, under the Ministry of Culture, is the premier organization for the archaeological research and protection of the cultural heritage of the nation.
• It administers more than 3650 ancient monuments, archaeological sites and remains of national importance.
• Its activities include carrying out surveys of antiquarian remains, exploration and excavation of archaeological sites, conservation and maintenance of protected monuments etc.
• It was founded in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham- the first Director-General of ASI. Alexander Cunningham is also known as the “Father of Indian Archaeology”.

The National Council of Educational Research and Training

• It is an autonomous organization that was established in 1961 under the Societies Registration Act.
• It is the apex body for advising the central and state governments on matters related to school education.