ASI Launches Survey at Odisha's Bhimmandali
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: The site was primarily associated with local folklore and the Mahabharata era without scientific validation. NOW: It is officially recognized and surveyed by the ASI as a major Mesolithic settlement dating back 10,000 years.
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BEFORE: Prehistoric rock art in India was heavily localized to known central Indian sites like Bhimbetka. NOW: The discovery in Odisha expands the geographical map of India's early human artistic expression eastward.
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BEFORE: The artifacts were exposed and unrecorded in the protected forests of Chhatagada and Brahmani. NOW: The ASI is digitally documenting tools like stone blades, scrapers for leatherwork, and rock paintings made from iron oxide.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)With reference to the archaeological discoveries at the Bhimmandali mountains, consider the following statements: 1. The site is located in Odisha and features prehistoric rock paintings created using natural iron oxide pigments. 2. The excavated artifacts are believed to belong to the Iron Age and post-date the Harappan civilization. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?