Evidence of dairy production in the Indus Valley Civilisation

News: The study published in the journal Nature has found the Evidence of dairy production in the Indus Valley Civilisation.

Facts:

• About the study: The study was based on molecular chemical analysis of residue in shards of pottery found at the archaeological site of Kotda Bhadli, a rural settlement located in Gujarat.

Key findings from the study:

• Dairy Production in Indus: Dairy production in India began as far back as in the 3rd millennium BCE and may have been a factor behind sustaining the Indus Valley Civilisation.
• Which type of animals were used? The study was also able to show which type of animals were being used for dairy production.They concluded that the animals used were cattle like cows and buffalo rather than goats and sheep.
• Industrial level of Dairy Production: The Harappans did not just use dairy for their household.The large herd indicates that milk was produced in surplus so that it could be exchanged and there could have been some kind of trade between settlements.

Additional Facts:

• Indus Valley civilisation: It is the oldest urban civilisation discovered till date.It flourished in the basins of the Indus River.The civilisation is noted for their urban planning, baked brick houses, elaborate drainage systems, water supply systems, large and new techniques in handicraft.