In The Earliest Cities, the NCERT Solutions provide a detailed explanation of the early urban settlements that emerged during the ancient civilizations. These solutions discuss various aspects of these cities, including their location, layout, and features.

Location of Early Cities:
- The earliest cities were often located near rivers or fertile land, which provided the necessary resources for agriculture and trade.
- River valleys such as the Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, and Nile Valley were ideal locations for the development of cities.

Layout of Early Cities:
- The cities were usually planned and organized with a well-defined layout.
- They had well-designed streets, drainage systems, and public buildings.
- The architecture of these cities was impressive, with large structures like temples, palaces, and granaries.

Features of Early Cities:
- The cities had a centralized authority, with a king or ruler governing the city and its surrounding areas.
- They had a well-developed economy, with a focus on agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship.
- The cities were centers of cultural and intellectual activities, with schools, libraries, and centers of learning.
- The society was divided into different classes, including rulers, priests, artisans, and farmers.

Importance of Early Cities:
- These early cities played a crucial role in the development of civilizations and laid the foundation for urbanization.
- They facilitated trade and commerce, leading to economic growth and prosperity.
- The cities were centers of cultural exchange and innovation, with the development of writing systems, arts, and sciences.
- The organized governance and administration in these cities influenced future political systems.

Conclusion:
The earliest cities were significant milestones in human history, marking the transition from small-scale settlements to large urban centers. They were characterized by their location near rivers, well-planned layouts, and various features such as centralized authority, economic activities, and cultural development. Understanding these early cities helps us comprehend the origins and evolution of human civilization.