The Beginnings of Indian Civilisation | Class 6 Social Science Notes

The Harappan Economy

The economy of the Harappan Civilisation was diverse and well-developed, based mainly on agriculture, animal husbandry, craft production, and trade. Agriculture was the primary occupation, with evidence of cultivation of wheat, barley, peas, sesame, and cotton. The people used tools like ploughs, as indicated by clay models found at sites such as Banawali. Animal husbandry was also important, with domesticated animals including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and camels. The Harappans were skilled craftsmen producing pottery, beads, metal tools, ornaments, and seals. Beads made from carnelian and other semi-precious stones were highly valued and traded widely. Trade was conducted both within the civilisation and with distant regions such as Mesopotamia and Iran. The presence of seals with inscriptions suggests the use of a system for trade and administration. The Harappans also developed weights and measures to standardise trade transactions. The economy was thus a combination of farming, animal rearing, craft production, and extensive trade networks, which contributed to the prosperity of the civilisation.

📊 Diagram: Fig. 6.9. A small clay model of a plough (from Banawali in Haryana); Fig. 6.10. Harappan beads of carnelian beads excavated at Susa (present-day Iran)

🧪 Activity: Discuss the importance of agriculture and trade in the growth of ancient civilisations and identify modern parallels.

🔗 Connection: This section connects to the next by exploring the artefacts that provide insights into Harappan culture and technology.