Latest news with #IndusValleyCivilization
India.com
26-05-2025
- Science
- India.com
95-Century-Old City Discovered Beneath Ocean – Oldest Civilisation Ever?
Ne Delhi: Does the story of human civilization begin where we think? Do the true origins of our societies, cultures and cities stretch back far earlier than the history books suggest and perhaps hidden beneath the very waters we see today? A startling revelation off India's western coast has led the above questions. It casts shadows over our conventional understanding of the past. An underwater site in the Gulf of Khambhat has puzzled archaeologists and scientists for more than two decades. It has stirred debate and raised the possibility of a city submerged under the ocean. Is it a myth or the elusive trace of an ancient civilization that could rewrite the timeline of human history? The Discovery That Shook History Marine researchers from the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), during a routine pollution survey off India's coast in 2000, stumbled upon something remarkable. Their sonar equipment revealed geometrically structured and large formations on the seabed. It was something that defied natural explanations. It laid about 120 feet below the water's surface. Stretching over five miles in length and two miles in width, this ancient site could be older than any civilization we have historically recognised. Human remains, sculptures, ancient beads and pottery shards, the artifacts found from the depths offer tantalising clues. Carbon dating of the artifacts reveals that they are nearly 9,500 years old. The discovery pushes the boundaries of human history. This discovery, if verified, could challenge everything we thought we knew about early human settlements – especially in relation to the Indus Valley Civilization that has long been considered one of the oldest known advanced cultures. A Window Into Prehistoric Civilization Can this submerged city provide a clue to understand how early societies thrived and developed? The chief geologist for the NIOT team, Dr Badrinaryan Badrinaryan, too believes the same. According to him, the artifacts point to a civilization lost beneath water because of increasing sea levels at the end of the Ice Age. Known for its remarkable advanced culture and urban planning, this theory suggests that the Harappan civilization may have evolved from this older 'mother culture'. This, if true, may upend the prevailing belief that well-organised societies did not exist before 5500 BCE. Of course, the idea of a submerged city is not new. Myths and legends suggest that entire civilizations disappeared beneath the waves. But the discovery of such an ancient site presents a real-world mystery that potentially has enormous implications for our understanding of human development. Ongoing Debate Several scholars are convinced with the exiting discovery. Experts such as Dr. Akko Parpola and Dr. Iravatham Mahadevan have cast doubt on the interpretations. Though Dr. Mahadevan argues that certain structures seem man-made, yet he cautions that the artifacts might have been carried by ancient rivers and not necessarily pointing to a lost city. Similarly, Dr. Parpola has questioned the reliability of carbon dating. He says that natural processes might have influenced the patterns and shapes on the seafloor. The debate highlights the complexities of interpreting underwater archaeological sites. The ocean is a harsh and ever-changing environment, and distinguishing between human-made structures and natural formations is no easy task. Can This Discovery Redefine History? Can this discovery lead to rewriting of the history of early civilizations? The Gulf of Khambhat site, if confirmed, will suggest the existence of a culture far older than the Indus Valley. It can also prompt us to reevaluate the factors – which shaped ancient societies. Rising sea levels, shifting coastlines and natural disasters could have submerged civilizations long before the first written records emerged. Researchers are exploring this submerged enigma as the world watches in anticipation. The idea that ancient human civilization might have evolved in ways we have not yet fully comprehend can lead us to untold histories. The Gulf of Khambhat is considered to be the first chapter of a much larger story – which has been hidden beneath the waves for thousands of years.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Lost civilisation discovered beneath the Indian ocean could be older than the Harrappan civilisation
What if the roots of human civilization stretched back far earlier than we ever imagined so far, in fact, that entire cities may now lie forgotten beneath the sea? It sounds like something from a myth or a lost chapter of history, yet off the coast of western India, a mysterious underwater discovery has brought up this very question. Found in the gloomy depths of the Gulf of Khambhat, this ancient submerged site could potentially rewrite the timeline of civilization itself. The discovery was made more than two decades ago by Indian marine researchers and has never been conclusively accepted or rejected. But what exactly was found beneath the sea and why does it continue to stir such controversy even after 25 years? A look into prehistoric civilization In December 2000, the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) made a massive discovery in the Gulf of Khambhat, off India's western coast, that happened to take place in routine pollution surveys. Sonar technology showed large, geometric structures on the seafloor, suggesting the existence of a submerged city. This alleged city is located approximately 120 feet underwater, and spans over five miles in length and two miles in width. Artifacts recovered from the site include pottery, beads, sculptures, and human remains. On being carbon-dated, it was found that these artifacts date to be nearly 9,500 years old, potentially predating the Indus Valley Civilization. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like เทรดทองCFDs กับโบรกเกอร์ที่เชื่อถือได้ | เรียนรู้เพิ่มเติม IC Markets สมัคร Undo As per reports by Indy100, Dr. Badrinaryan Badrinaryan, chief geologist for NIOT's scientific team, proposed that these findings indicated the existence of an advanced civilization submerged by rising sea levels at the end of the last Ice Age. He suggested that the Harappan civilization might have descended from this "mother culture," challenging the belief that well-organized societies couldn't have existed prior to 5500 BCE. Experts like Dr. Iravatham Mahadevan and Dr. Akko Parpola have questioned the interpretations. Dr. Mahadevan acknowledged the man-made appearance of certain structures but cautioned that some artifacts might have been transported by ancient rivers. Dr. Parpola raised concerns about the reliability of carbon dating and the potential for natural processes to have shaped the site. Credits: Images generated by canva
Hindustan Times
19-05-2025
- Hindustan Times
Haryana CM Saini inaugurates three development projects in Rakhigarhi
Chandigarh, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday inaugurated three development projects worth ₹20 crore in Hisar district's Rakhigarhi, a historic site of the Indus Valley Civilization. The projects include the construction of a rest house, a hostel, and a cafeteria at the Rakhigarhi Museum and Interpretation Centre, a proposed museum to showcase artefacts of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Saini and Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat who was also present for the event unveiled a booklet prepared on the archeological site of Rakhigarhi. Saini said that the newly developed rest house, cafeteria, and hostel will provide excellent facilities for tourists and students visiting from across the country and abroad. The 17-room rest house is equipped with modern amenities and the hostel comprises 13 dormitories for students' accommodation and a dining hall. Saini and Shekhawat also visited the exhibition organised by the Department of Archaeology and Museums. The exhibition displayed various Harappan-era artefacts discovered during excavations, including children's toys, terracotta cartwheels, lamps, terracotta beads, necklaces, and other objects. Haryana Heritage and Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma and Public Works and Public Health Engineering Minister Ranbir Gangwa were also present for the inauguration. After the event, the CM and the Union minister held a meeting with officers to review the plan to develop Rakhigarhi as a tourism centre,according to an official statement. Directions were issued to the concerned departments to expedite the construction work of the Rakhigarhi Museum and Interpretation Centre. They also directed that sheds be built at archaeological sites so that excavation work can continue throughout the year. They emphasised the importance of integrating the museum with the archaeological sites and preparing a detailed plan for lighting, parking, and other tourist facilities. Shekhawat said the excavations in Rakhigarhi since the 1960s have provided concrete evidence that a highly developed human civilisation once existed here. He claimed that the discoveries made during the excavations "strongly prove that India's civilisation is the oldest in the world". The minister expressed satisfaction with the Haryana government's efforts in developing Rakhigarhi into a major tourism and research hub for archaeologists and historians. The development work at the site is scheduled to be completed in various phases, he said.
News18
19-05-2025
- Politics
- News18
Indus And Sutlej Originate In Tibet. Can China Block Their Flow?
Last Updated: Technically, China has the capability to stop the water flow of these rivers since they originate in Tibet. But using water as a geopolitical weapon has limitations China's control over Tibet, where key rivers like the Indus and Sutlej originate, adds a complex dimension to the now-paused Indus Water Treaty between India and Pakistan. Signed in 1960 to manage shared water resources, the Indus Water Treaty lets India use the eastern rivers (Sutlej, Beas, Ravi) and Pakistan the western rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Chenab). After the Pahalgam terror attack, India put the treaty in 'abeyance'. While this move could have severe long-term consequences for Pakistan, concerns now also focus on the potential impact if China decides to obstruct the flow of these rivers originating in Tibet. The Indus River originates from the Seng Khabab glacier near Mansarovar Lake and Mount Kailash in Tibet, at an altitude of around 5,500 metres. It flows through Tibet into Ladakh, where it meets tributaries like the Zanskar and Shyok, before entering Pakistan and eventually emptying into the Arabian Sea. Spanning approximately 3,180 kilometres, the Indus was the lifeline of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and remains vital for agriculture and hydroelectric power in both India and Pakistan. The Sutlej River originates from the Longchen Khabab glacier near Rakshas Tal in Tibet, at an altitude of approximately 4,600 to 5,000 metres. The glacier's meltwater forms the river's initial source. In Tibet, the Sutlej merges with streams like the Spiti River before entering India's Himachal Pradesh near the Shipki La pass. It then flows through the Kinnar Kailash region and continues into Punjab, where it supports the crucial Bhakra Dam hydroelectric and irrigation project. Finally, the Sutlej joins the Indus River in Pakistan. Stretching about 1,450 kilometres, the Sutlej is vital for Punjab's agriculture and India's hydroelectric power generation. Technically, China has the capability to stop the water flow of these rivers since they originate in Tibet. China has built hydroelectric plants like Senge Tsangpo and Ngari Shiquanhe near the Indus' source, and a barrage at Zada Gorge on the Sutlej. These structures can control water flow, potentially reducing, stopping, or altering it. China's large dams have the potential to regulate water flow, impacting India and Pakistan, especially during dry and rainy seasons. Additionally, China could divert water for its own use, similar to its South-North Water Transfer Project, though this has not been implemented on the Indus or Sutlej rivers. If China withholds water-flow data—as it did for the Brahmaputra in 2017—it could hinder India's ability to predict floods or droughts, complicating water management and disaster preparedness. China Has Done It Before There have been instances where China has used water as a geopolitical tool. In 2016, China halted the flow of the Shiyaku, a Brahmaputra tributary, for a hydroelectric project, sending a geopolitical message to India. After the Galwan Valley conflict in 2020, China blocked the Galwan River, an Indus tributary, causing water shortages in India. In 2004, China created an artificial lake on the Parechu River, a tributary of the Sutlej, raising fears in India of a potential 'water bomb'. However, China shared data promptly, helping to prevent any major damage. Water: A Geopolitical Weapon Withholding water can serve as a geopolitical weapon for China in certain situations. According to experts, during border tensions with India—such as at Galwan or Doklam—China could leverage control over river flows. Given China's close ties with Pakistan, many analysts predict that if India suspends the Indus Water Treaty or reduces water supply to Pakistan, China might retaliate by restricting water from the Indus or Sutlej rivers. Experts have also warned that, with growing water and energy demands, China could divert water from these rivers for its own use. Limitations Of Water Retention Using water as a geopolitical weapon has limitations. Only a small percentage of the water in the Indus (10-15%) and Sutlej (20%) originates from Tibet, making it difficult to stop entirely. Building large dams in the earthquake-prone region of Tibet is risky, and stopping water could affect the local ecology and communities. Stopping water flow can be considered a violation of international water laws, such as the Helsinki Rules, which could lead to global criticism of China. This may escalate tensions with countries like India and Bangladesh, increasing regional instability. Additionally, projects like the Bhakra Dam in Punjab and other hydroelectric and irrigation facilities in Himachal Pradesh could be adversely affected, reducing water availability and power generation. Water shortages in Ladakh could also harm local agriculture and impact military bases in the region. Existing India-China Water Agreements India and China currently have hydrological data-sharing agreements for the Sutlej and Brahmaputra rivers, signed between 2002 and 2018. These agreements cover data exchange during the flood season (June–October) and have expired in 2023. However, China has continued to share data for the Sutlej beyond this period. Notably, there is no formal water-sharing treaty between the two nations, giving China greater flexibility and control over the rivers' waters. Watch India Pakistan Breaking News on CNN-News18. Get Latest Updates on Movies, Breaking News On India, World, Live Cricket Scores, And Stock Market Updates. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: May 19, 2025, 18:08 IST
India.com
19-05-2025
- India.com
Top 10 Facts About Delhi That Every Traveler Should Know
The Indian capital town of Delhi presents itself as a lively combination of old heritage ties with contemporary trends alongside cultural traditions. The place serves as India's central spot for politics and management while being recognized for both its cultural multitude and its fast growing development. Know these 10 exceptional elements about Delhi which will capture anyone's interest: 1. Delhi is One of the Oldest Continuously Inhabited Cities in the World Delhi commenced its existence as a city more than 5,000 years ago thereby ranking itself among the most ancient urban settlements worldwide. Archaeologists have found proof that communities thrived here throughout the times of the Indus Valley Civilization. The city of Delhi suffered rule under multiple dynasties starting from the Mauryans through Mughals to the British while each dynasty added its distinct architectural styles to the city culture. 2. It Has Been the Capital of Several Empires History attests that Delhi held the position of capital for seven major dynastic empires. History demonstrates that Delhi has been chaired by multiple empires following each other in succession starting with the Tomaras then the Chauhans followed by the Slave Dynasty and Khilji Dynasty then the Tughlaq Dynasty and Lodi Dynasty leading up to the powerful Mughal Empire. The successive dynasties that ruled Delhi constructed various magnificent architectural marvels such as Qutub Minar alongside Red Fort and Humayun's Tomb. 3. Delhi is Not Just One City – It's Eight Cities Combined Diverse rulers erected their fortified regions to become the landscapes that form modern-day Delhi. The succession of eight cities brings together Indraprastha with both Lal Kot and Siri along with Tughlaqabad, Firozabad, Dinpanah, Shergarh and Shahjahanabad. Through multiple successive conquests Delhi has developed an exclusive character which serves as an essential ground for historical research. 4. The Name 'Delhi' Has Multiple Theories Behind Its Origin Scientific evidence does not confirm the origins of the city name Delhi even though multiple theories about its etymology exist today. According to some historians the city received its name because Raja Dhillu, a Mauryan Period king administered this region. Dehleez found within Hindi and Urdu means threshold or gateway thus representing what serves as the gateway for northern India according to some experts. Research suggests 'dehli' derived from Persian origin where it signifies frontier. 5. Home to Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites Inside Delhi exists a pair of indomitable UNESCO World Heritage Sites which include Qutub Minar alongside Red Fort. The Qutub Minar measures 73 meters in height making it the highest brick minaret in existence and Qutb-ud-din Aibak constructed this grand structure in 1199. The Red Fort which Emperor Shah Jahan built during 1638 established itself as the Mughal residence and currently stands as a landmark representing India's freedom movement. 6. Delhi is the Largest Commercial Hub in Northern India The regional economic activities of North India heavily rely on Delhi which strengthens the nation's overall Gross Domestic Product. The area includes headquarters of major corporations in addition to international firms as well as the active markets found in Chandni Chowk and Connaught Place. Research shows that Delhi holds a position within the top global metropolitan cities based on purchasing power parity statistics. 7. A Melting Pot of Cultures and Religions People from every part of India along with international citizens make Delhi into a cultural diversity hub where multiple tongues and traditions unite. Every year Diwali joins Eid along with Christmas and Holi and Durga Puja as festivals which people celebrate with tremendous spirit throughout the city. Delhi displays its secular spirit through its religious monuments which include Akshardham Temple alongside Jama Masjid and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib together with Lotus Temple. 8. Green Spaces Amid Urban Chaos The urban density of this global metropolis does not prevent it from supporting a variety of green recreational areas. Delhi residents together with tourists can find peaceful spaces in the urban confusion at the Ridge Forest and Lodhi Gardens along with Nehru Park and Sanjay Van. The tree-covered streets and park areas throughout Delhi help combat pollution but do not fully eliminate this ongoing environmental issue. 9. Delhi Metro – A Marvel of Modern Engineering The Delhi Metro transformed urban public transport when it began its operations in 2002. The network extends more than 390 kilometers between nine lines while connecting major sites efficiently to minimize traffic problems. Due to its reliable operation combined with low costs and immaculate service the metro ranks as among the world's top transportation networks and ferries huge numbers of users per day. 10. Air Pollution Remains a Major Concern The city of Delhi brings many advantages to its citizens yet it encounters major environmental dangers that primarily manifest through air pollution. The Indian capital of Delhi occupies one of the highest spots on the global pollution list because its population must endure excessive PM2.5 and PM10 particulate pollution from vehicles and industries and neighboring state farmland fires as well as building site activities. The government implements programs to minimize pollution through vehicle restrictions on odd and even days and electric vehicle promotion and forest expansion. Conclusion Delhi exists as a modern city that unites age-old customs with modern development objectives. Through its history as an imperial center Delhi now stands as a busy worldwide city which fascinates people with its sophisticated and amicable qualities. The city presents fresh discoveries through its ancient monuments as well as its efficient metro system and savory street cuisine at Chandni Chowk to its cosmopolitan inhabitants. The sustainable development of Delhi into the future depends on resolving current priority matters such as pollution.
