Indus Valley Civilization: Notes, Facts & Quiz for UPSC & SSC

Indus Valley Civilization - UPSC Concepts

Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) Notes: Complete Guide for UPSC, SSC & State PSC

The Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), also known as the Harappan Civilization, is one of the most significant topics for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC CGL, and HSSC. Flourishing between 3300 BCE and 1300 BCE, it represents the first urban revolution in the Indian subcontinent.

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Important Phases of IVC

• Early Harappan Phase (3300–2600 BCE): Focus on regional specialization and early trade.
• Mature Harappan Phase (2600–1900 BCE): The peak of urban planning (Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro).
• Late Harappan Phase (1900–1300 BCE): The period of decline and dispersal.

Key Features of IVC Urban Planning

The Indus cities were famous for their advanced engineering. This is a favorite topic for UPSC Mains and SSC GK sections:

• Grid System: Streets intersected at right angles, dividing the city into blocks.
• Drainage System: Every house had a connection to the main street drain, which was covered with stone slabs or bricks.
• The Citadel: An elevated area for public buildings and the ruling class.
• Great Bath: Located in Mohenjo-Daro, used for ritual bathing.

Related Study Material:

• Read: Age of Industrialization - Complete Notes & Quiz
• Read: Gupta Period - Golden Age of India

Major Sites and Findings

Site Name	Key Discoveries
Harappa	Granaries, Cemeteries (R-37), Stone symbols of Lingam.
Mohenjo-Daro	Great Bath, Dancing Girl (Bronze), Pashupati Seal.
Lothal	Ancient Dockyard, Rice husk, Double Burial.
Dholavira	Unique Water Harnessing System, Giant Reservoir.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Who discovered the Harappan Civilization?
A: Rai Bahadur Daya Ram Sahni discovered Harappa in 1921.

Q2: What was the main occupation of IVC people?
A: Agriculture was the primary occupation, growing wheat, barley, and cotton.

Practice Quiz

Ready to test your knowledge? Attempt our high-yield IVC quiz designed for toppers.

Take the IVC MCQ Quiz

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Keywords: Indus Valley Civilization UPSC, Harappan Civilization SSC Notes, Ancient History IVC Study Material, Mohenjo-Daro Facts, Indian History MCQs.