Human skeletal remains dug up from Rakhigarhi, Haryana, have moved from Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) for deeper scientific study. This transfer, under new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU),aims to boost research into one of Indus-Saraswati Civilization's urban hubs,says AnSI Director Professor B.V. Sharma.
Rakhigarhi, sprawling over 550 hectares,is largest known Harappan settlement. Findings show habitation from Early to Mature Harappan times,with advanced planning, drainage, trade networks. Burial sites also found. Mound 7 stands out — 56 skeletons discovered,including woman about 4,600 years old .
The Rakhigarhi woman's discovery has stirred interest in history, anthropology,genomics. DNA tests showed she lacked Steppe Pastoral gene, fueling debates on Aryan migration to India. Scholars argue over terms,many preferring "Indo-Aryan" to dodge racial overtones.
Now at AnSI’s Kolkata repository: three complete skeletons from Mound 7,plus other fragments from different burial sites . Union Culture Ministry said more remains will arrive soon.
Researchers ready to apply modern techniques to these bones: ancient DNA (aDNA) analysis,stable isotope studies,osteological checks. These could reveal ancestry,migration, diets, diseases,human-environment links in Harappan times. Culture ministry stressed these studies' importance,in collaboration with top institutions like Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences in Lucknow, University College London, and Banaras Hindu University's ancient DNA team.
AnSI just wrapped up palaeopathological studies on skeletons from various Harappan sites,prepping to publish results. Rakhigarhi remains will boost their research,especially in ancient DNA . Plans are underway to expand ties with Zoological Survey of India,Geological Survey of India,and research groups on palaeo-climate studies. What secrets will these bones tell…
