RAS question
Which IVC site is known for the discovery of a terracotta model of a plough?
Correct answer: (D) Banawali.
Banawali is the Indus Valley Civilisation site known for the discovery of a terracotta model of a plough.
Explanation
According to Haryana Tourism, the terracotta plough model was one of the important finds from Banawali's Harappan phase. Haryana Tourism describes a three-stage cultural sequence at Banawali: Pre-Harappan, Harappan and Bara, and notes that Dr. R.S. Bisht of the Archaeological Survey of India excavated the site. The Harappan phase had a well-planned, fortified township laid out in a radial pattern. The plough model is significant because it comes directly from the Harappan cultural layer; finds such as charred barley grains further show why Banawali is important for studying IVC agriculture and material culture.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Mohenjo-daro is associated with the Great Bath and the Dancing Girl, not with the terracotta plough model.
- (B) Kalibangan is known for evidence of a ploughed field, which is different from the terracotta model of a plough found at Banawali.
- (C) Lothal is linked with the dockyard and fire altars, so it does not match the specific artefact: the terracotta plough model.
Concept
This question tests the Ancient History syllabus area covering Harappan sites and their distinctive finds. Such site-artefact matching recurs in RAS because it provides a compact test of factual knowledge about IVC agriculture, town planning and material culture.