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 :
- (a) 1 and 2 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Why the answer is (a)
• The question tests whether each inference follows from its statement, not whether the statement itself is true.
• Inference 1 follows: spindle-whorls in ordinary houses without spinning wheels mean thread was spun by hand at home — slow, laborious domestic work.
• Inference 2 follows: standardised cubical weights in a binary-decimal series and graduated scales show the Harappans' command of measurement and applied science.
• Inference 3 does not follow: large brick houses with their own wells, bathing platforms and courtyards point to private, affluent households, not to common (shared) property.
• Hence only inferences 1 and 2 can be drawn.
Why the other options are wrong
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- Inference 3 is unsound (private wells and courtyards suggest private, not common, property) and inference 1 is valid.
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- Inference 3 is unsound and inference 2 is valid.
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
- Inference 3 does not follow from statement III.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, held on 24 May 2026. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.