Unveil India - 5 - Year 5 MCQ

Former Indian Prime Minister's Birthday on December 25
- The correct answer is Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose birthday falls on December 25.
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee was the 10th Prime Minister of India and served three terms in office, first for a brief period in 1996, then from 1998 to 1999, and finally from 1999 to 2004.
- He was a prominent leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a respected statesman.
- Vajpayee played a significant role in shaping India's foreign policy, including improving relations with neighboring countries like Pakistan and China.
- He was known for his oratory skills and his ability to bring people from different political ideologies together.
- Vajpayee's government introduced key economic reforms and infrastructure projects during his tenure.
- He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 2015.
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee passed away on August 16, 2018, at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and statesmanship.

Introduction:
The state known as the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) is located in the northeastern region of India. It is now known as Arunachal Pradesh.
Explanation:
Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:
1. North East Frontier Agency (NEFA):
- NEFA was a federally administered territory in northeastern India.
- It was established in 1954 and remained as a separate administrative entity until 1972.
- NEFA was created to administer the areas of the northeastern region that were not yet fully integrated into the Indian Union.
2. Renamed as Arunachal Pradesh:
- In 1972, NEFA was renamed as Arunachal Pradesh and became a full-fledged state of India.
- Arunachal Pradesh is the largest state in the northeastern region of India and is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse ethnic communities.
3. Location:
- Arunachal Pradesh is situated in the northeastern part of India, bordering the countries of Bhutan, China, and Myanmar.
- It is often referred to as the "Land of the Rising Sun" due to its strategic location in the easternmost part of India.
4. Culture and Ethnicity:
- Arunachal Pradesh is known for its cultural diversity, with more than 25 major tribes and numerous sub-tribes residing in the state.
- Each tribe has its own distinct language, customs, and traditions, adding to the cultural richness of the region.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the state known as the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) is now called Arunachal Pradesh. It is located in the northeastern part of India and is known for its cultural diversity and strategic location.

Which state or union territory has French as an official language?
Answer: C. Pondicherry
Explanation:
The correct answer is C. Pondicherry. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Pondicherry, also known as Puducherry, is a union territory in India.
- It was a French colony until 1954 and still retains a significant French influence.
- French is one of the official languages of Pondicherry, along with Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam.
- The French language is widely spoken and used in government offices, education, and administration in Pondicherry.
- Pondicherry is known for its French Quarter, which features French-style architecture, cafes, and street names in French.
- The French Institute of Pondicherry, located in the city, promotes research and studies in various fields, including humanities, social sciences, and ecology.
- The presence of French as an official language in Pondicherry reflects its unique cultural heritage and history as a former French colony.
Therefore, Pondicherry is the state or union territory in India that has French as an official language.

Official Language of Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: Urdu
Explanation:
Jammu and Kashmir, a union territory in northern India, has Urdu as its official language. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Urdu: Urdu is the official language of Jammu and Kashmir. It is widely spoken and understood by the people of the region. Urdu is also one of the 22 scheduled languages of India.
Other languages spoken in Jammu and Kashmir:
- Kashmiri: Kashmiri is one of the regional languages spoken in Jammu and Kashmir. It is predominantly spoken in the Kashmir Valley and parts of Ladakh region.
- Dogri: Dogri is another regional language spoken in Jammu and Kashmir. It is mainly spoken in the Jammu region of the union territory.
- Pahari: Pahari is a group of languages spoken in the mountainous regions of Jammu and Kashmir, including areas like Poonch, Rajouri, and Kishtwar.
These regional languages are also widely used and recognized in the respective areas, but Urdu has been designated as the official language of the union territory.
It's important to note that Jammu and Kashmir has a diverse linguistic and cultural heritage, and the people of the region are multilingual, with many individuals being proficient in multiple languages including Hindi and English.

State that became part of India in 1975:

• Sikkim: Sikkim is the state that became a part of India in 1975.

Explanation:

• Background: Sikkim was a small kingdom located in the Eastern Himalayas, bordered by Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.


• Chogyal Rule: Sikkim was ruled by the Chogyal monarchy until 1975.


• India's Influence: Over the years, India had significant influence over Sikkim's political affairs, economy, and defense.


• People's Revolt: In the early 1970s, there was a growing demand for democratic reforms in Sikkim.


• Referendum: A referendum was held in 1975 to decide the future of Sikkim.


• Merging with India: The majority of the population voted in favor of abolishing the monarchy and merging with India.


• 16th State: As a result, on May 16, 1975, Sikkim officially became the 22nd state of India.

Therefore, the state that became a part of India in 1975 is Sikkim.

Answer:
During British Rule, the summer capital of India was Simla. Here is a detailed explanation:
Reasons for choosing Simla as the summer capital:
- Climate: Simla offered a cool and pleasant climate during the scorching summer months, making it an ideal location for the British officials to escape the heat of the plains.
- Accessibility: Simla was easily accessible from major cities like Delhi and Calcutta. It had a well-developed railway network and road infrastructure, which made it convenient for the British officials to travel to and from the city.
- Strategic Location: Simla was located in the foothills of the Himalayas, providing a picturesque and serene environment. It also offered a strategic advantage as it was close to the British military stations in Punjab.
- Infrastructure: The British developed Simla as a modern hill station with well-planned roads, buildings, and amenities. It had grand colonial-style buildings, hotels, clubs, and recreational facilities, catering to the needs of the British officials and their families.
- Administrative Functions: During the summer months, the Viceroy and other central government departments would move to Simla to carry out their administrative functions. This allowed them to continue their work in a more comfortable and favorable environment.
Conclusion:
Simla, with its favorable climate, accessibility, strategic location, and well-developed infrastructure, was chosen as the summer capital of India during British Rule.

Who was the only Indian Governor General?
Answer: C. C. Rajagopalachari
Explanation:
The only Indian Governor General was C. Rajagopalachari. Here are some key points about him:
- Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, was an Indian politician, lawyer, writer, and statesman.
- He was the last Governor-General of India from 1948 to 1950, when India became a republic.
- Rajagopalachari was associated with the Indian National Congress and played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement.
- He served as the Premier of the Madras Presidency from 1937 to 1947.
- Rajagopalachari was a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and participated in many freedom struggles and civil disobedience movements.
- After India's independence, Rajagopalachari served as the Minister of Home Affairs in Jawaharlal Nehru's cabinet.
- He was also the Chief Minister of Madras State from 1952 to 1954.
- Rajagopalachari was known for his liberal and progressive views and played a significant role in shaping India's policies during the early years of independence.
Thus, C. Rajagopalachari was the only Indian Governor General.

Prime Minister Who Could Not Prove Majority in Lok Sabha in May 1996:

• Answer: C. Atal Behari Vajpayee

Explanation:

• In May 1996, Atal Behari Vajpayee, the leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), was unable to prove his majority in the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Indian Parliament.


• After the Lok Sabha elections held in April-May 1996, no party or coalition obtained a clear majority in the house.


• Vajpayee was invited by the President of India to form the government and become the Prime Minister.


• However, he resigned after serving for only 13 days as he was unable to gather the required number of votes to prove his majority in the Lok Sabha.


• This led to the fall of the BJP-led government and paved the way for the formation of a United Front government with H. D. Deve Gowda as the Prime Minister.


• Therefore, the correct answer is C. Atal Behari Vajpayee.

Religions that originated in India:
- Hinduism: Hinduism is the oldest religion in India and has its roots in ancient Indian civilization. It is a complex and diverse religion with various sects and beliefs.
- Jainism: Jainism was founded by Mahavira in the 6th century BCE. It is a religion that emphasizes non-violence, truth, and self-discipline.
- Buddhism: Buddhism was founded by Gautama Buddha in the 6th century BCE. It originated as a reform movement within Hinduism and later developed into a separate religion.

Religion that did not originate in India:
- Judaism: Judaism is an ancient monotheistic religion that originated in the Middle East, specifically in the region of Canaan (modern-day Israel and Palestine). It is one of the oldest religions in the world and predates the religions that originated in India.
Summary:
- Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism are religions that originated in India.
- Judaism is a religion that originated in the Middle East, not in India.

When did Rabindranath Tagore die?

Rabindranath Tagore, the renowned poet, philosopher, and Nobel laureate from India, passed away in 1941. Here is a detailed explanation:
- Rabindranath Tagore was born on May 7, 1861, in Calcutta, British India.
- He was a multi-talented personality who excelled in various fields such as literature, music, art, and education.
- Tagore became the first non-European Nobel laureate in Literature in 1913, receiving this prestigious award for his collection of poems, Gitanjali.
- He was a prominent figure in the Indian independence movement and used his writings to express his views on nationalism, social issues, and spirituality.
- Tagore established Visva-Bharati University in Santiniketan, West Bengal, which became a center for art, culture, and education.
- On August 7, 1941, Rabindranath Tagore passed away at the age of 80 in Calcutta, British India (now Kolkata, India).
- His death was a great loss to the literary and cultural world, as his works continue to inspire and influence generations.
Answer: Rabindranath Tagore died in 1941.

Goa becoming a state
Goa, a state in India, achieved statehood on 30 May 1987. Here is a detailed explanation of the events leading up to Goa becoming a state:
- Portuguese rule: Goa was under Portuguese rule for over four centuries, from 1510 to 1961. It was a Portuguese colony and was administered as a union territory by the Indian government after its liberation from Portugal in 1961.
- Special status: After Goa's liberation, it was initially given the status of a union territory, separate from the other states of India. The unique historical, cultural, and linguistic characteristics of Goa led to demands for it to be granted statehood.
- Statehood demand: The demand for Goa to become a state gained momentum in the 1980s. Various political parties and organizations in Goa advocated for statehood, arguing that it would provide the state with more autonomy and better representation at the national level.
- 1987 Statehood Act: The Government of India recognized the demand for statehood and passed the Goa, Daman and Diu Reorganization Act, 1987. This act divided the union territory of Goa, Daman, and Diu into two separate entities - Goa as a state and Daman and Diu as a separate union territory.
- Goa as a state: On 30 May 1987, Goa officially became the 25th state of India. It was granted its own legislative assembly and chief minister, providing it with greater self-governance and decision-making powers.
- Constitutional recognition: With statehood, Goa gained constitutional recognition on par with other states of India. It became eligible for representation in the Rajya Sabha (upper house of Parliament) and the Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament) based on its population.
In conclusion, Goa became a state on 30 May 1987, after being a union territory for over two decades. The demand for statehood was driven by the unique characteristics of Goa and its aspirations for greater autonomy and representation. The Goa, Daman and Diu Reorganization Act, 1987, paved the way for the formation of the state of Goa.

Answer:
To determine which state is to the north of Goa, we need to consider the geographical location of Goa and its neighboring states.
Geographical Location:
- Goa is located on the western coast of India, along the Arabian Sea.
- It is surrounded by the states of Maharashtra in the north and Karnataka in the south and east.
Identifying the State to the North:
- To find the state to the north of Goa, we need to look at the map and identify the state that borders Goa in the north, which is Maharashtra.
- Maharashtra is the neighboring state of Goa in the north.
Therefore, the state to the north of Goa is Maharashtra.

State to the South of Goa: Karnataka
Explanation:
To determine the state to the south of Goa, we need to look at the geographical location of Goa and its neighboring states. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Goa's location:
- Goa is located on the western coast of India, in the Konkan region.
- It is bordered by the Arabian Sea on the west and Maharashtra on the north and east.
2. Neighboring states:
- To the north of Goa is Maharashtra.
- To the east and south of Goa is Karnataka.
- To the south-east of Goa is Kerala.
3. Identifying the state to the south:
- Since Goa is located on the western coast, the state to its south can be identified as Karnataka.
4. Karnataka:
- Karnataka is a state in southern India.
- It shares its border with Goa to the north-west.
- The capital city of Karnataka is Bengaluru.
Conclusion:
- The state to the south of Goa is Karnataka.

Answer:
The correct answer is B: Arabian Sea.
Explanation:
To determine which sea is to the west of Goa, we need to look at the geographical location of Goa.
1. Goa is a state located on the western coast of India.
2. It is bounded by the Arabian Sea to the west.
3. The Arabian Sea is a region of the northeastern Indian Ocean bounded on the north by Pakistan and Iran, on the west by the Gulf of Aden, Guardafui Channel and the Arabian Peninsula, and on the east by India.
4. The Arabian Sea is a major body of water that connects the Indian Ocean to the Persian Gulf.
5. It is known for its warm waters, diverse marine life, and importance as a trade route.
Therefore, the Arabian Sea is the sea that is located to the west of Goa.

Official Language of Goa: Konkani


Konkani is the official language of the state of Goa in India. Here are some key points about Konkani as the official language of Goa:
1. Importance of Konkani in Goa:
- Konkani holds significant cultural and historical importance in Goa.
- It is primarily spoken by the Konkani community, which is a major ethnic group in the state.
- Konkani is also recognized as one of the 22 scheduled languages of India.
2. Status as Official Language:
- Konkani was recognized as the official language of Goa on February 4, 1992, under the Goa Official Language Act, 1987.
- This act made Konkani the sole official language of the state, replacing Portuguese, which was the official language during the colonial era.
3. Konkani in Education:
- Konkani is also used as the medium of instruction in primary schools in Goa.
- Efforts have been made to promote Konkani education and literature in the state.
4. Konkani Script:
- Konkani is written in multiple scripts, including Devanagari, Roman, and Kannada scripts.
- The Devanagari script is widely used and recognized for Konkani writing.
5. Other Languages in Goa:
- While Konkani is the official language, English and Marathi are also widely spoken and understood in Goa.
- English is commonly used for administrative and official purposes, while Marathi is spoken by a significant population.
6. Cultural Significance:
- Konkani language is deeply intertwined with Goa's rich cultural heritage, including its music, literature, and performing arts.
Overall, Konkani holds a special place in Goa's identity as the official language that represents its unique culture and heritage.

Replacement of Francisco Sardinha as Goa’s Chief Minister in 2000
Answer: D. Manohar Parrikar
Explanation:
Francisco Sardinha was the Chief Minister of Goa until 2000 when he was replaced by Manohar Parrikar. Here are the details:
- Francisco Sardinha: He served as the Chief Minister of Goa from 1999 to 2000. However, he was replaced by Manohar Parrikar in 2000.
- Manohar Parrikar: He succeeded Francisco Sardinha as the Chief Minister of Goa in 2000. Parrikar was a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and held the position until 2002.
- Parrikar went on to serve as the Chief Minister of Goa for multiple terms. He returned to power in Goa from 2002 to 2005, 2012 to 2014, and again from 2014 until his resignation in 2017 when he was appointed as the Defense Minister of India.
- Manohar Parrikar was known for his leadership skills and contributions to the development of Goa during his tenure as Chief Minister. He played a significant role in infrastructure development, education reforms, and attracting investment to the state.
Therefore, the correct answer is D. Manohar Parrikar.

Chief Minister of Goa who later became Speaker of Legislative Assembly:


Answer: B. Pratapsinh Rane
Explanation:


Pratapsinh Rane, who served as the Chief Minister of Goa, later became the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. Here is a brief explanation:
- Dayanand Bandodkar: Dayanand Bandodkar was the first Chief Minister of Goa after its liberation from Portuguese rule in 1961. However, he did not become the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
- Pratapsinh Rane: Pratapsinh Rane, a prominent politician from Goa, served as the Chief Minister of Goa for multiple terms. After his tenure as Chief Minister, he took on the role of Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
- Shashikala Kakodkar: Shashikala Kakodkar was the first woman Chief Minister of Goa. However, she did not become the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
- Ravi Naik: Ravi Naik is a politician from Goa who served as the Chief Minister of Goa. However, he did not become the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
In conclusion, Pratapsinh Rane is the Chief Minister of Goa who later became the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.

Article 371I of the Indian Constitution
- Article 371I is a special provision for the state of Goa in the Indian Constitution.
- It was inserted in the Constitution in 1987 after the state of Goa was granted statehood.
- Article 371I provides certain special powers and safeguards for Goa to protect its unique identity, culture, and land.
- It aims to ensure the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities among different sections of the Goan society.
- The provisions under Article 371I include:
1. Reservation of seats in the legislative assembly: The seats in the Goa Legislative Assembly are reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
2. Empowerment of tribal communities: Article 371I provides for the establishment of a Goa Tribal Areas Autonomous Development Council, which aims to promote the welfare and development of tribal communities in the state.
3. Protection of land rights: The ownership and transfer of land in Goa are regulated by special laws to protect the rights of the local population.
- Article 371I ensures that the interests and aspirations of the people of Goa are safeguarded while maintaining the overall framework of the Indian Constitution.

Opening date of Commonwealth Games 2010
The opening date of the Commonwealth Games 2010 was 3 October 2010.
Detailed
The Commonwealth Games is an international multi-sport event that is held every four years. In 2010, the event was hosted by Delhi, India.
Key points:
- The opening date of the Commonwealth Games 2010 was 3 October 2010.
- The Games were officially declared open by Prince Charles, representing Queen Elizabeth II.
- The opening ceremony took place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.
- The ceremony showcased India's rich cultural heritage through various performances and displays.
- The Games featured athletes from Commonwealth member countries competing in various sports such as athletics, swimming, badminton, and more.
- The event lasted for 11 days, with the closing ceremony held on 14 October 2010.
In summary:
The opening date of the Commonwealth Games 2010 was 3 October 2010. The event brought together athletes from Commonwealth member countries to compete in various sports and showcased India's cultural heritage.

Commonwealth Games 2010
The Commonwealth Games is a multi-sport event involving athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations. The 2010 edition of the Commonwealth Games was held in Delhi, India.
Key Points:
- The Commonwealth Games 2010, also known as Delhi 2010, took place from October 3 to October 14, 2010.
- It was the nineteenth edition of the Commonwealth Games.
- The games were held in various venues across Delhi, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, and Yamuna Sports Complex.
- The opening ceremony of the games showcased India's rich cultural heritage and featured performances by renowned artists.
- Athletes from 71 Commonwealth countries and territories participated in the games, competing in 21 different sports.
- The host nation, India, emerged as the overall winner with a total of 101 medals, including 38 gold medals.
- Other successful nations in the games included Australia, England, and Canada.
Conclusion:
The Commonwealth Games 2010 was held in Delhi, India. It was a significant event for India as it showcased the country's capabilities in organizing a major international sporting event. The games provided a platform for athletes from various Commonwealth nations to compete and display their skills.

Gold Medalist in Men's Singles Tennis at Commonwealth Games 2010
The gold medal in men's singles tennis at the Commonwealth Games 2010 was won by Rohan Bopanna. Here are the details:
Background:
- The Commonwealth Games is a multi-sport event held every four years, featuring athletes from the Commonwealth of Nations.
- The 2010 edition of the Commonwealth Games was held in Delhi, India.
Men's Singles Tennis Event:
- The men's singles tennis event at the Commonwealth Games 2010 featured top-ranked players from various Commonwealth countries.
- The tournament followed a knockout format, with players competing against each other in a series of matches.
Winner:
- Rohan Bopanna, an Indian professional tennis player, emerged as the winner of the gold medal in the men's singles event.
- Bopanna showcased exceptional skills and determination throughout the tournament, defeating his opponents in a series of matches to clinch the title.
Other Competitors:
- Leander Paes, another renowned Indian tennis player, was one of the competitors in the men's singles event at the Commonwealth Games 2010.
- Somdev Devvarman and Mahesh Bhupathi, both Indian tennis players, also participated in the tournament.
Conclusion:
- Rohan Bopanna won the gold medal in the men's singles tennis event at the Commonwealth Games 2010, showcasing his talent and skill on the court.

The state with the largest coastline in India is Gujarat.
Reasons:
- Gujarat has a coastline of approximately 1,600 kilometers, making it the state with the longest coastline in India.
- The coastline of Gujarat stretches along the Arabian Sea in the western part of the country.
- The state's coastline is known for its diverse geographical features, including sandy beaches, rocky shores, and mangrove forests.
- Gujarat's coastline is home to several important ports, including the Kandla Port, which is one of the largest ports in India.
- The state's coastal areas are also known for their rich marine biodiversity, with numerous species of marine flora and fauna.
- Gujarat's coastline is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty, water sports activities, and historic sites such as the ancient port city of Lothal.
In comparison:
- Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and West Bengal also have significant coastlines, but they are shorter than that of Gujarat.
- Tamil Nadu has a coastline of approximately 1,076 kilometers, Maharashtra has a coastline of around 720 kilometers, and West Bengal has a coastline of about 157 kilometers.
Therefore, the correct answer is B: Gujarat.

Who first discovered Harappa?
The answer is A: Dayaram Sahni.
Detailed
Harappa is an ancient city located in present-day Pakistan, known for its well-preserved archaeological remains from the Indus Valley Civilization. The discovery of Harappa was a significant breakthrough in understanding the ancient history of the Indian subcontinent. Here is a detailed explanation of the discovery:
1. Dayaram Sahni: He was an Indian archaeologist who is credited with the discovery of Harappa. In 1921, Sahni was appointed as the Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). During his tenure, he conducted excavations at Harappa and unearthed the remains of a highly advanced civilization.
2. Excavations at Harappa: Dayaram Sahni began excavations at Harappa in 1920. He uncovered the ruins of a vast city, with well-planned streets, sophisticated drainage systems, and multi-story buildings. The excavations revealed artifacts like pottery, seals, jewelry, and tools, providing valuable insights into the lifestyle and culture of the Indus Valley Civilization.
3. Importance of the Discovery: The discovery of Harappa by Dayaram Sahni revolutionized the understanding of ancient Indian history. It established the existence of a highly advanced urban civilization in the Indian subcontinent, contemporary to ancient civilizations like Mesopotamia and Egypt. The findings at Harappa also challenged the prevailing notion that ancient India was a land of primitive tribes.
4. Further Research: After Dayaram Sahni's initial excavations, further archaeological studies were conducted at Harappa and other sites of the Indus Valley Civilization. This ongoing research has provided a deeper understanding of the civilization's economic, social, and political systems.
In conclusion, Dayaram Sahni is credited with the discovery of Harappa, which played a crucial role in unraveling the mysteries of the Indus Valley Civilization. His excavations and findings at Harappa laid the foundation for extensive research and exploration of ancient Indian history.

Discovery of Harappa

• Harappa: Harappa is one of the major sites of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, known for its advanced urban planning and sophisticated architecture.


• Discovery: The discovery of Harappa was a result of archaeological excavations conducted in the early 20th century.


• Date: Harappa was first discovered in 1921.

Explanation

The discovery of Harappa was a significant milestone in understanding the Indus Valley Civilization. Here is a detailed explanation:

• Archaeological Excavations: Archaeologists conducted systematic excavations in the early 20th century to explore ancient civilizations.


• Harappa Site: One such excavation led to the discovery of a site near the village of Harappa in present-day Pakistan.


• John Marshall: Sir John Marshall, the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India, played a vital role in the excavation and identification of Harappa.


• 1921 Discovery: In 1921, excavations at Harappa revealed the remains of a highly developed urban settlement, showcasing the advanced engineering and organizational skills of the Indus Valley Civilization.


• Importance: The discovery of Harappa revolutionized the understanding of ancient urban civilizations and provided valuable insights into the cultural, social, and economic aspects of the Indus Valley Civilization.

Therefore, Harappa was first discovered in 1921 through systematic archaeological excavations, leading to a deeper understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization.

Discovery of Mohenjo Daro
Mohenjo Daro is an ancient city that was discovered in the 1920s. The discovery of this ancient Indus Valley Civilization site is credited to R.D. Banerji, an Indian archaeologist. Here is a detailed explanation of how Mohenjo Daro was discovered:
R.D. Banerji
- R.D. Banerji was an archaeologist who worked for the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) during the early 20th century.
- He conducted excavations at various sites in the Indian subcontinent, including Mohenjo Daro.
- Banerji's work was focused on uncovering the remains of ancient civilizations and bringing awareness to India's rich archaeological heritage.
Discovery
- In 1922, R.D. Banerji led excavations at the site of Mohenjo Daro, located in present-day Pakistan's Sindh province.
- The site was identified based on the descriptions found in ancient texts and the presence of a large mound.
- Banerji's team carefully excavated the site, uncovering the well-preserved remains of a sophisticated urban settlement.
- The discovery of Mohenjo Daro provided valuable insights into the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest urban civilizations.
Significance
- Mohenjo Daro is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in South Asia.
- It provides evidence of a highly organized and advanced civilization that flourished around 2500 BCE.
- The city had well-planned streets, a complex drainage system, and evidence of an advanced social and economic structure.
- The discovery of Mohenjo Daro has contributed significantly to our understanding of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.
In conclusion, R.D. Banerji, an Indian archaeologist, is credited with the discovery of Mohenjo Daro. His excavations at the site in the 1920s revealed the remains of a remarkable urban settlement from the Indus Valley Civilization.