With reference to the Harappan weights, consider the following statements: 1. They were generally cubical with markings indicating value. 2. They were usually made of chert. 3. Metal scale-pans were unknown to the Harappans. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is 2 only Explanation The Indus Valley Civilization employed a highly standardized and precise system of weights and measures to regulate exchanges and trade across its vast geographical extent. - Statement 1 is Incorrect: The weights used by the Harappans were usually made of a specific type of stone called chert. They were manufactured with great precision, reflecting a centralized control or a uniform standard of metrology. - Statement 2 is Correct: While the weights were generally cubical in shape, they typically had no markings. The system of counting was binary for lower denominations (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, etc.) and followed the decimal system for higher denominations, but the physical weights themselves were usually devoid of value inscriptions. - Statement 3 is Incorrect: Metal scale-pans were not unknown to the Harappans. Archaeologists have discovered scale-pans made of copper and bronze at various sites, including Mohenjodaro and Lothal, indicating their use in weighing goods. Key Takeaway: Harappan weights were made of chert, were cubical in shape, and generally had no markings. The civilization utilized metal scale-pans for trade.

NCERT Class 12 History — Chapter 1: Bricks, Beads and Bones - The Harappan Civilisation

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With reference to the Harappan weights, consider the following statements:

They were generally cubical with markings indicating value.
They were usually made of chert.
Metal scale-pans were unknown to the Harappans.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A1 only
B2 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is

2 only

Explanation

The Indus Valley Civilization employed a highly standardized and precise system of weights and measures to regulate exchanges and trade across its vast geographical extent.

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The weights used by the Harappans were usually made of a specific type of stone called chert. They were manufactured with great precision, reflecting a centralized control or a uniform standard of metrology.
Statement 2 is Correct: While the weights were generally cubical in shape, they typically had no markings. The system of counting was binary for lower denominations (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, etc.) and followed the decimal system for higher denominations, but the physical weights themselves were usually devoid of value inscriptions.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: Metal scale-pans were not unknown to the Harappans. Archaeologists have discovered scale-pans made of copper and bronze at various sites, including Mohenjodaro and Lothal, indicating their use in weighing goods.

Key Takeaway: Harappan weights were made of chert, were cubical in shape, and generally had no markings. The civilization utilized metal scale-pans for trade.

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More from Chapter 1: Bricks, Beads and Bones - The Harappan Civilisation

In the context of Harappan domestic architecture at Mohenjodaro, which of the following is a distinctive feature of the residential buildings?

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The "Proto-Shiva" seal depicts a figure seated in a yogic posture surrounded by animals. Which of the following animals are typically associated with this depiction?

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With reference to the subsistence strategies of the Harappan Civilisation, consider the following statements: 1. Millets have been found at Harappan sites in Gujarat. 2. Rice was the most commonly consumed grain in the Harappan Civilisation. 3. Bones of wild species such as boar and gharial are found at Harappan sites. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statements regarding the "Mother Goddess" figurines: 1. They are made of terracotta. 2. They are always depicted as plain figures without any jewellery. 3. They are found in large numbers at Mohenjodaro. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below: List I (Site) | List II (Feature) A. Dholavira | 1. Craft production centre B. Kalibangan | 2. Evidence of ploughed field C. Chanhudaro | 3. Water reservoirs D. Lothal | 4. Dockyard

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The correct option is

2 only

Explanation

The Indus Valley Civilization employed a highly standardized and precise system of weights and measures to regulate exchanges and trade across its vast geographical extent.

Statement 1 is Incorrect: The weights used by the Harappans were usually made of a specific type of stone called chert. They were manufactured with great precision, reflecting a centralized control or a uniform standard of metrology.
Statement 2 is Correct: While the weights were generally cubical in shape, they typically had no markings. The system of counting was binary for lower denominations (1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, etc.) and followed the decimal system for higher denominations, but the physical weights themselves were usually devoid of value inscriptions.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: Metal scale-pans were not unknown to the Harappans. Archaeologists have discovered scale-pans made of copper and bronze at various sites, including Mohenjodaro and Lothal, indicating their use in weighing goods.

Key Takeaway: Harappan weights were made of chert, were cubical in shape, and generally had no markings. The civilization utilized metal scale-pans for trade.