Rakhigarhi Human Remains Handed Over for Scientific Study Context: The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has transferred human skeletal remains excavated from Rakhigarhi, Haryana, to the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The move aims to promote multidisciplinary research on one of the most significant urban centres of the Indus-Saraswati (Harappan) Civilization. About Rakhigarhi Located in Haryana and spread over about 550 hectares, Rakhigarhi is regarded as the largest known settlement of the Harappan Civilization. The site, excavated by Amarendra Nath of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is situated in the Ghaggar-Hakra river basin. It encompasses the villages of Rakhi Shahpur and Rakhi Khas and is spread over nine mounds, with Mounds 4 and 5 being densely inhabited. Excavations have revealed evidence of continuous habitation from the Early Harappan to the Mature Harappan phases. Rakhigarhi is considered the largest site of the Indus Valley Civilization in the Indian subcontinent. In the 2020 Union Budget, it was announced as one of the country's five iconic heritage sites; the other sites are Hastinapur, Sivasagar, Dholavira, and Adichanallur. Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Ganweriwala, and Dholavira are other major Harappan-era sites. Major Findings of Rakhigarhi Excavations at Rakhigarhi uncovered numerous skeletal remains, and DNA studies suggest that the Harappan inhabitants had a distinct ancestry, challenging theories linking them to steppe pastoralists or ancient Iranian farmers. The site reveals advanced urban planning, with mud and burnt-brick houses, efficient drainage systems, and evidence of an elite settlement at Mound 3. Discoveries of steatite beads, semi-precious stones, shells, agate and carnelian objects, hunting tools, and a mud-brick granary indicate flourishing trade and organized storage practices. Archaeological evidence of fire altars, animal sacrifices, and burials including two 5,000-year-old female skeletons with pots and artefacts highlights the ritual and funerary traditions of the Harappans. Seals…
