Q. Consider the following pairs regarding the technical aspects of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC):
System AspectDescription/Feature
I. BoustrophedonThe common direction of writing in longer inscriptions of the Harappan script, alternating lines.
II. Weights SystemLower denominations followed a binary system (1, 2, 4, 8, 16…), while higher ones adopted a decimal system.
III. Measurement RodStandardised rods of bone, often marked with precision subdivisions, found in sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Lothal.
In how many of the above pairs is the information correctly matched?
Answer: C
Notes:
Explanation:
- Pair I: Correct. The Indus script is generally written from right-to-left, but the longer inscriptions often use the boustrophedon style, meaning alternating lines are written in opposite directions (right-to-left, then left-to-right, and so on).
- Pair II: Correct. The chert weights found across the IVC show remarkable standardisation. The smaller weights follow a binary progression (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, up to 12,800), while the heavier weights follow a decimal system.
- Pair III: Correct. Graduated scales/rods, made of materials like shell and bone, have been found at sites like Mohenjo-Daro and Lothal, indicating a standardised system of linear measurement, sometimes with high precision markings.
