R.A.S./R.T.S. (Pre.) 2021

Regional Chalcolithic Cultures

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Consider the following statements pertaining to the Ahar Civilization- A. The natives of Ahar knew copper smelting B. Rice was unknown to them C. Metal work was one of the means of economy D. Black - Red coloured pottery have been found here.

Solution & Analysis

Answer: A

Concept The Ahar-Banas culture was a distinct Chalcolithic (Copper-Stone Age) entity in Southeast Rajasthan, contemporaneous with but different from the Indus Civilization.

Explanation Archeological excavations show that Ahar was a center for copper smelting (it was called Tambavati). Residents also used distinctive Black-and-Red ware pottery often decorated with white designs. Evidence of burnt rice has also been found, contradicting statement B.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: They were expert metallurgists (Statements A & C are true).
Logic 2: Statement B is incorrect; Ahar has yielded evidence of rice cultivation, one of the earliest in that region.
Logic 3: Their pottery style (Black-Red with white designs) is a 'type fossil' for this culture (Statement D is true).

Active Recall

Question

Why was the Ahar site called 'Tambavati'?

Answer

It means 'place of copper', reflecting the abundance of copper tools and evidence of large-scale copper smelting found there.

Core Insight

Ahar demonstrates that while the Indus Valley was the most advanced urban center, regional cultures like the Banas culture had highly specialized metal industries.