Agriculture in Ancient India - Tools & Irrigation

Agriculture was the economic backbone of ancient India and the primary means of sustenance for most communities from the Harappan age to the Gupta period. The evolution of tools, techniques, and irrigation systems reflected both technological advancement and ecological adaptation. Ancient Indian agriculture moved from river-valley dependence (Indus, Ganga) to artificial irrigation and iron-based ploughing, laying the foundation for a stable rural economy.

Protohistoric Phase (Indus/Harappan Civilization, C. 2600–1900 BCE)

Agricultural Practices

  • Evidence from sites like Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro, Kalibangan, Lothal, and Dholavira shows extensive crop cultivation.
  • Crops cultivated: wheat, barley, peas, sesame, mustard, cotton, and dates.
  • Double cropping practiced in semi-arid ....
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Indian History