UPSC Prelims 2021 · GS Paper I
Question 32: History and Culture
Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelizing water into connected reservoirs?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).
Dholavira, in Kutch in Gujarat, is a Harappan city known for its remarkable water management. Its builders used dams and embankments on seasonal streams to channel rainwater into a series of connected reservoirs and tanks, an answer to the region's scarcity of water. Kalibangan is known for fire altars and a ploughed field, Rakhigarhi for its size, and Ropar for being the first Indian Harappan site excavated after Independence.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: Dholavira had dams, channels and connected reservoirs.
- (b) Wrong: Kalibangan is known for fire altars and a ploughed field.
- (c) Wrong: Rakhigarhi is known as a very large Harappan site, not for this water system.
- (d) Wrong: Ropar is known as the first Harappan site excavated after Independence.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2021, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.