Q8 · UPSC Prelims 2026 · Set A · Art and Culture

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Consider the following statements about the archaeological findings in Harappan towns:I.There is wide occurrence of spindle-whorls in the houses but absence of spinning wheels.II.Weights and measurement scales, complete with graduations have been discovered.III.There are houses built in large part with baked bricks, around relatively spacious courtyards, with their own wells, bathing platforms, and large rooms. Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the above statements?1.Statement I : suggests that spinning was a laborious activity done at home.2.Statement II : suggests the extent of the scientific knowledge that the Harappans possessed.3.Statement III : suggests the emergence of a common property system. Select the answer using the code given below:

Page facts
Exam
Union Public Service Commission — Civil Services Examination (UPSC)
Board
UPSC
Stage
Prelims
Year
2026
Paper
UPSC Prelims — Prelims General Studies Paper I (General Studies)
Booklet
Set A
Question
Q8
Topic
Art and Culture
Syllabus
Indian art, architecture, culture — Prelims GS Paper I.
A 1 and 2 only
B 2 and 3 only
C 1 and 3 only
D 1, 2 and 3

Correct answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation

  1. A

    1 and 2 only

    Statement I indicates domestic spinning using spindle-whorls, while Statement II points to precise weights and measurement scales reflecting advanced scientific and metrological knowledge. Both inferences are validly drawn from the archaeological evidence.

  2. B

    2 and 3 only

    This option is incorrect because Statement III describes private residential houses with individual wells and bathing platforms, which indicates private domestic amenities rather than a common property system.

  3. C

    1 and 3 only

    This option is incorrect because Statement III does not imply a common property system, as individual houses possessed distinct private wells and bathing facilities.

  4. D

    1, 2 and 3

    This option is incorrect because Statement III is an invalid inference; individual ownership of wells and rooms within houses points to private property structures rather than collective or common property. Summary. Official key is (a) because spindle-whorls and graduated measurement scales support domestic crafts and scientific metrology, whereas individual residential wells contradict a common property system.

Summary. Official key is (a) because spindle-whorls and graduated measurement scales support domestic crafts and scientific metrology, whereas individual residential wells contradict a common property system.

Same topic · past papers

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  1. 2016 · Q45 · General Studies · 2 marks

    Recently, our scientists have discovered a new and distinct species of banana plant which attains a height of about 11 metres and has orange-coloured fruit pulp. In which part of India has it been discovered?

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