Subsistence Strategies of Harappa:

The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley civilization, existed around 2600 to 1900 BCE in the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent. The people of Harappa adopted various subsistence strategies to sustain their livelihoods. These strategies can be categorized into four main areas:

Agriculture:
- The people of Harappa heavily relied on agriculture as their primary subsistence strategy.
- They cultivated a wide range of crops, including wheat, barley, rice, pulses, and various vegetables.
- Advanced irrigation systems, such as canals and reservoirs, were developed to ensure proper water supply to the fields.
- The use of animal-drawn plows helped in tilling the land, and the availability of fertile soil contributed to successful agricultural practices.

Pastoralism:
- Alongside agriculture, pastoralism played a significant role in the subsistence strategies of Harappa.
- People reared various livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs.
- These animals provided not only meat but also dairy products, such as milk and cheese.
- The herds were grazed on natural pastures, and some evidence suggests that animal pens were constructed within the settlements.

Hunting and Gathering:
- While agriculture and pastoralism were the primary subsistence strategies, hunting and gathering also played a supplementary role.
- The Harappan people relied on hunting wild animals, such as deer, boars, and rabbits, for meat.
- Gathering of wild fruits, nuts, and edible plants supplemented their diet.
- The proximity to rivers and forests provided ample opportunities for hunting and gathering activities.

Fishing:
- The rivers, notably the Indus and its tributaries, played a crucial role in the subsistence strategy of fishing.
- The people of Harappa engaged in fishing as a means of obtaining food.
- They used nets, hooks, and spears to catch fish, which provided an additional source of protein and sustenance.

Conclusion:
The subsistence strategies of Harappa were diverse and included agriculture, pastoralism, hunting and gathering, and fishing. These strategies enabled the people to sustain their livelihoods and meet their basic needs for food and resources. The utilization of advanced agricultural techniques, coupled with the domestication of animals and exploitation of natural resources, contributed to the prosperity and stability of the Harappan civilization.