UPSC Prelims 2011 Q92: Ancient History – Indus Valley Civilization
Regarding the Indus Valley Civilization, consider the following statements :
1. It was predominantly a secular civilization and the religious element, though present, did not
dominate the scene.
2. During this period, cotton was used for manufacturing textiles in India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation
Checking two statements about the Indus Valley Civilization
The Indus Valley Civilization (Harappan) had distinctive religious and economic/textile characteristics.
| Statement | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Predominantly secular, religious element present but not dominant | Correct | Archaeological evidence suggests the civilization was largely secular in its urban planning and daily life, with religion present but not overwhelmingly central, unlike some contemporary civilizations |
| 2. Cotton was used for manufacturing textiles | Correct | The Indus Valley people are credited as among the earliest cultivators and users of cotton for textile production |
Indus Valley Civilization facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Religious character | Secular-leaning, religion present but not dominant |
| Textiles | Early, significant use of cotton |
| Urban planning | Grid layout, drainage — reflecting practical, secular priorities |
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 2 (cotton use) is also correct, so '1 only' is incomplete.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 (secular character) is also correct, so '2 only' is incomplete.
- (c) CORRECT. Both the civilization's largely secular character and its early use of cotton for textiles are well-established facts.
- (d) Incorrect. Since both statements are accurate, 'neither' is wrong.
Key point
The Indus Valley Civilization was largely secular in character (religion present but not dominant) AND was an early user of cotton for textile manufacturing — both statements are true.
Remember
Indus Valley Civilization: largely secular character, and an early user of cotton for textile manufacturing.
Common mistakes
- Assuming all ancient civilizations were equally religion-dominated, missing the Indus Valley's relatively secular character.
- Not knowing the Indus Valley's early role in cotton cultivation and textile use.
- Underestimating how much archaeological evidence (urban planning, art) supports the secular-character claim.
Exam tip
Indus Valley: secular-leaning society + early cotton textile use — both well-documented, standard facts.
Sources
- R. S. Sharma — Ancient India (NCERT textbook for Class XI)
- Romila Thapar — A History of India, Volume 1 (Penguin)