History

Mehrgarh Civilization

(7000 BCE – 2500 BCE) One of the earliest farming communities in South Asia

Discovery

Excavated in 1974 by French archaeologist

Located in Balochistan.

Foundation of the Indus Valley Civilization.

Phases

Early (7000–5500 BCE): Farming, herding, mud houses, pottery

Middle (5500–3500 BCE): Irrigation, cotton, copper tools, crafts

Late (3500–2500 BCE): Trade, crafts, move to Indus cities

Economy

Agriculture: Wheat, barley, cotton.

Animals: Cattle, sheep, goats.

Crafts: Pottery, bead-making, copper tools.

Trade with Iran & Afghanistan.

Religion

Clay figurines show fertility worship.

Ornaments in graves → belief in afterlife.

Burial rituals with tools, food, jewelry.

Spiritual practices linked to daily life.

Achievements

First farming & herding in South Asia.

World’s earliest use of cotton.

Early metallurgy (copper).

Basis for Indus Valley Civilization.