UPSC CSE Prelims
Town Planning Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Practice solved questions for Town Planning with detailed step-by-step solutions, key insights, and trend analysis for UPSC CSE PRELIMS.
Solved Previous Year Questions
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Consider the following statements about the archaeological findings in Harappan towns :
I. There is wide occurrence of spindle-whorls in the houses but absence of spinning wheels.
II. Weights and measurement scales, complete with graduations have been discovered.
III. There are houses built in large part with baked bricks, around relatively spacious courtyards, with their own wells, bathing platforms, and large rooms.
Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the above statements ?
- Statement I suggests that spinning was a laborious activity done at home.
- Statement II suggests the extent of the scientific knowledge that the Harappans possessed.
- Statement III suggests the emergence of a common property system.
Select the answer using the code given below :
Detailed Explanation:
The archaeological findings provide clues about Harappan society, technology, and economy.
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Inference 1 is Correct: The presence of numerous spindle-whorls and the absence of spinning wheels indicate that spinning was done manually at home, making it a labor-intensive activity.
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Inference 2 is Correct: Standardized weights and graduated measuring scales reflect the Harappans' advanced knowledge of measurement, mathematics, and trade.
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Inference 3 is Incorrect: Houses with private wells, bathing platforms, and spacious rooms indicate private ownership and social differentiation, not a common property system.
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Therefore, only Inferences 1 and 2 are correct, making Option A the correct answer.
Short Notes: Harappan Urban Features
| Feature | Significance |
|---|---|
| Spindle-whorls | Evidence of textile production and household spinning |
| Standardized Weights | Facilitated trade and commercial transactions |
| Graduated Scales | Demonstrates knowledge of measurement and precision |
| Baked Brick Houses | Advanced urban planning and architecture |
| Private Wells & Bathrooms | High standard of sanitation and private ownership |
Important Facts
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The Harappan Civilization had one of the world's earliest urban cultures with planned cities.
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Standardized weights were usually made of chert and followed a uniform system across the civilization.
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Harappan cities such as Mohenjo-daro, Harappa, Dholavira, and Lothal show remarkable engineering and civic planning.
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