NCERT Class 6 History Ch 6 Answers

The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation (Question–Answer)

These NCERT Class 6 History Ch 6 answers are written in simple question-answer format to help students revise quickly and prepare confidently for exams.

Q1. Why does this civilisation have different names?

Answer:
The civilisation is known by different names because it was discovered at various places and rivers.

• Harappan Civilisation – named after Harappa, the first discovered site

• Indus Civilisation – many cities were located along the Indus River

• Indus-Sarasvati Civilisation – settlements were found near the Sarasvati (Ghaggar-Hakra) river

All these names refer to the same civilisation but highlight different locations.

Q2. Write a short note on the achievements of the Indus-Sarasvati Civilisation.

Answer:
The Harappans built well-planned cities with straight roads and strong brick houses. Almost every house had bathrooms connected to covered drains, showing importance of cleanliness.

They were skilled craftsmen who made jewellery, seals, pottery, and bronze tools. Trade was organised using standard weights and measures and extended to distant lands like Mesopotamia.

They also developed advanced water systems such as wells, reservoirs, and public baths. Their knowledge of town planning, sanitation, and engineering shows they were highly advanced for their time.

Q3. How could people travel from Harappa to Kalibangan in ancient times?

Answer:
People depended on animals and rivers for travel.

Possible travel methods:

• Boats along rivers

• Bullock carts carrying goods

• Riding horses or camels

• Walking long distances

The journey would take many days or even weeks depending on weather and route conditions.

Q4. What surprises would a Harappan person see in a modern Indian kitchen?

Answer:
A Harappan person would be amazed by modern facilities:

• Refrigerator storing food

• Gas or electric stove

• Running tap water

• Packaged food and milk

• Steel and non-stick utensils

• Mixer and microwave

Cooking today is faster and more convenient than ancient times.

Q5. Which Harappan practices still continue today?

Answer:

Some traditions still seen today include:

• Wearing bangles and jewellery

• Using combs and mirrors

• Greeting with Namaste

• Storing grains in containers

• Playing indoor games

This shows continuity of culture in India.

Q6. What does the reservoir system of Dholavira show?

Answer:
The reservoirs indicate advanced planning and environmental awareness:

• Water conservation in dry areas

• Rainwater storage

• Community welfare thinking

• Strong engineering skills

• Adaptation to climate conditions

The Harappans carefully managed natural resources.

Q7. What do the wells of Mohenjo-daro suggest?

Answer:
About 700 wells were found in Mohenjo-daro, which shows:

• Water availability in every neighborhood

• Regular maintenance

• Awareness of hygiene

• Organized administration

This proves the city had efficient civic management.

Q8. Did the Harappans have a strong civic sense?

Answer:
Yes, the Harappans showed strong civic responsibility.

Evidence includes:

• Planned streets

• Covered drainage system

• Public baths

• Standard construction

• Clean surroundings

Many modern cities still struggle with issues that the Harappans solved thousands of years ago.

Quick Exam Revision Points

• First planned cities in India

• Advanced drainage system

• Standard weights and trade

• Dholavira water conservation

• Cleanliness and public welfare

Conclusion

These NCERT Class 6 History Ch 6 answers explain how the Harappans lived in organised and hygienic cities. Their knowledge of planning and conservation remains relevant even today.

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