Anthropology Optional · Paper I · General Anthropology

Foundations, Human Evolution and Prehistoric Archaeology Notes · PYQs

Free notes and every UPSC previous year question for Foundations, Human Evolution and Prehistoric Archaeology (Anthropology Optional Paper I, Unit 01), arranged by syllabus sub-topic so you can read a topic and immediately see how UPSC has asked it. Syllabus: Meaning, scope and branches; relationship with other disciplines; organic evolution; primates; fossil hominids; biological basis of life; prehistoric archaeology and dating.

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1981–2026

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Official UPSC syllabus

Foundations, Human Evolution and Prehistoric Archaeology: syllabus

The syllabus text as UPSC notifies it for Paper I of Anthropology Optional. Every note and question on this page maps to these lines. Full Paper I and Paper II syllabus.

1.1 Meaning, Scope and development of Anthropology.

1.2 Relationships with other disciplines: Social Sciences, behavioural Sciences, Life Sciences, Medical Sciences, Earth Sciences and Humanities.

1.3 Main branches of Anthropology, their scope and relevance:
(a) Social-cultural Anthropology.
(b) biological Anthropology.
(c) Archaeological Anthropology.
(d) Linguistic Anthropology.

1.4 Human Evolution and emergence of Man:
(a) Biological and Cultural factors in human evolution.
(b) Theories of Organic Evolution (Pre-Darwinian, Darwinian and Post-Darwinian).
(c) Synthetic theory of evolution; Brief outline of terms and concepts of evolutionary biology (Doll’s rule, Cope’s rule, Gause’s rule, parallelism, convergence, adaptive radiation, and mosaic evolution).

1.5 Characteristics of Primates; Evolutionary Trend and Primate Taxonomy; Primate Adaptations; (Arboreal and Terrestrial) Primate Taxonomy; Primate Behaviour; Tertiary and Quaternary fossil primates; Living Major Primates; Comparative Anatomy of Man and Apes; Skeletal changes due to erect posture and its implications.

1.6 Phylogenetic status, characteristics and geographical distribution of the following:
(a) Plio-preleistocene hominids inSouth and East Africa—Australopithecines.
(b) Homo erectus: Africa (Paranthropus), Europe (Homo erectus (heidelbergensis), Asia (Homo erectus javanicus, Homo erectus pekinensis.
(c) Neanderthal man—La-chapelle-aux-saints (Classical type), Mt. Carmel (Progressive type).
(d) Rhodesian man.
(e) Homo sapiens—Cromagnon, Grimaldi and Chancelede.

1.7 The biological basis of Life: The Cell, DNA structure and replication, Protein Synthesis, Gene, Mutation, Chromosomes, and Cell Division.

1.8 (a) Principles of Prehistoric Archaeology. Chronology : Relative and Absolute Dating methods.
(b) Cultural Evolution—Broad Outlines of Prehistoric cultures :
(i) Paleolithic
(ii) Mesolithic
(iii) Neolithic
(iv) Chalcolithic
(v) Copper-Bronze age
(vi) Iron Age

Paper I · Unit 01

Foundations, Human Evolution and Prehistoric Archaeology notes

Topic-wise notes for this unit in syllabus order, written for UPSC Mains with diagrams, key terms and the previous year questions of each topic. Read a topic, then practise its questions below.

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Previous year questions: Foundations, Human Evolution and Prehistoric Archaeology

All 272 questions UPSC has set from this unit between 1981 and 2026, grouped by syllabus sub-topic, newest first. Questions from 2013 onwards (the current pattern) are shown in full; earlier ones open on a tap.

How often UPSC asks each sub-topic

Sub-topicQuestionsSince 2013Last asked
1.1 Meaning, scope and development of anthropology1972025
1.2 Relationship with other disciplines1442021
1.3 Main branches of anthropology, their scope and relevance2972021
1.4 Human evolution and emergence of man; theories of organic evolution53142026
1.5 Primates: characteristics, taxonomy, behaviour, fossil and living primates40132026
1.6 Fossil hominids: Australopithecines to Homo sapiens49132026
1.7 The biological basis of life1172026
1.8 Prehistoric archaeology, dating methods and prehistoric cultures57392026

1.1 Meaning, scope and development of anthropology

19 questions · 7 since 2013 · last asked 2025
Read the notes: Meaning, Scope and Development of Anthropology

Asked since 2013 · 7

  • 2025Anthropology provides a multidimensional understanding of human beings by bridging the gap between science and humanities. Elucidate.
  • 2025“The agenda of biological anthropology became more scientific from the middle of the twentieth century.” Justify.
  • 2023Write notes on: Scope and relevance of Social and Cultural Anthropology.
  • 2022“Anthropology is the systematic, objective and holistic study of human kind in all times and places”. Elaborate the argument.
  • 2018Write a note in 150 words on the Relevance of Anthropology.
  • 2017Define Anthropology. Describe the major branches of Anthropology elaborating on any one branch.
  • 2014Critically examine the role of anthropology in Contemporary India.
Show 12 earlier questions (before 2013)

1982–2012 · 12 questions

  • 2011Critically examine the contribution of Anthropologists in the interpretation of symbols.
  • 1998Write a note on Holistic and atomistic approach.
  • 1993Do you think it is possible to bring uniformity of method in the natural and social sciences ? Will it lead to advancement of anthropological research?
  • 1991Discuss the relevance of anthropological approach to national character studies.
  • 1989Write a note on Background of Anthropological Comparison.
  • 1987Write a note on Anthropology in the service of humanity.
  • 1987Discuss the relevance of anthropological approach in national character studies.
  • 1985Examine the influence of the humanistic tradition on the growth and development of anthropology.
  • 1983Analyse the comparative method of the nineteenth century anthropology and its limitations as to the nature and purpose of social-cultural anthropology.
  • 1983Discuss how Anthropology is concerned with common humanity and universal values.
  • 1982Anthropology studies at the “micro” level, but aims at “macro” level theory. Elaborate.
  • 1982Anthropology is a source of values. Substantiate.

1.2 Relationship with other disciplines

14 questions · 4 since 2013 · last asked 2021
Read the notes: Relationship of Anthropology with Other Disciplines

Asked since 2013 · 4

  • 2021Elaborate the scope of anthropology and elucidate the uniqueness in the field of other social sciences.
  • 2016Write a note in 150 words on differences between Social Anthropology and Sociology.
  • 2013Write a note in 150 words on How do you situate Anthropology in Social Sciences ?
  • 2013Differentiate between Economics and Economic Anthropology. (150 words).
Show 10 earlier questions (before 2013)

1981–2012 · 10 questions

  • 1999Discuss the relationship of anthropology with psychology and medicine.
  • 1989Write a note on Relationship between Social Anthropology and History.
  • 1988Write a note on Psychological anthropology.
  • 1987Write a note on Prehistoric anthropology and its relation to other science.
  • 1986Write a note on Relationship between Social anthropology and History.
  • 1986Do you regard Social Anthropology as a Social Science or a humanistic discipline? Give reasons for you answer.
  • 1985Write a note in 200 words on the relation of Anthropology to the social sciences.
  • 1983Assess the relative strength of anthropological techniques for scientific study in social sciences.
  • 1982In Anthropology, science and humanity converge. Examplify.
  • 1981Identify the controversies around the relation between History and Social Anthropology. (200 words).

1.3 Main branches of anthropology, their scope and relevance

29 questions · 7 since 2013 · last asked 2021
Read the notes: Main Branches of Anthropology

Asked since 2013 · 7

  • 2021Mention the major branches of linguistic anthropology and discuss language use in social and cultural settings.
  • 2020How can synergising the core branches of anthropology reinvigorate the holistic spirit of the discipline?
  • 2019Write a note in 150 words on the relationship between Linguistics and Social-Cultural Anthropology.
  • 2018Give an account of- the field methods used in the study of Archaeological Anthropology.
  • 2015Write a note in 150 words on Archaeological Anthropology.
  • 2014Write a note in 150 words on Major sub-divisions of Anthropology.
  • 2013Write a note in 150 words on Linguistic Anthropology.
Show 22 earlier questions (before 2013)

1982–2012 · 22 questions

  • 2008Write a note on Biological Anthropology.
  • 2002Write a note on Biological Anthropology.
  • 1999Write a note on Action anthropology.
  • 1996Write a note on Medical Anthropology.
  • 1996What is cognitive approach ? Critically examine its implications in Sociocultural Anthropology.
  • 1995Write a note on Action anthropology.
  • 1994Write a note on Social and cultural anthropology.
  • 1992Write a note on Archaeological Anthropology.
  • 1992Write an essay on the aims and scope of applied anthropology with special reference to India.
  • 1991Write a note on ‘Classical’ Physical Anthropology.
  • 1991Discuss the merits and demerits of different methods of comparison used in social-cultural anthropology.
  • 1990Write a note on Linguistic anthropology.
  • 1990Write a note on Recent trends in psychological anthropology.
  • 1989Write a note on Theme of Linguistic Anthropology.
  • 1989Write a note on ‘New Physical Write a note on ‘New Physical.
  • 1988Bring out the merits and demerits of different contributions on the methods of comparison in social-cultural anthropology.
  • 1985What are the common aspects of structural anthropology and linguistics?
  • 1985Discuss the types of comparison in social anthropology.
  • 1985Write a note on Empiricism in social anthropology.
  • 1985Write a note on New Physical anthropology.
  • 1983Does structuralism in social anthropology coincide with that in linguistics ? Critically assess their analogy.
  • 1982Discuss the comparative method of cultural evolutionists, diffusionists and modern social anthropologists.

1.4 Human evolution and emergence of man; theories of organic evolution

53 questions · 14 since 2013 · last asked 2026
Read the notes: Human Evolution and Theories of Organic Evolution · Synthetic Theory of Evolution

Asked since 2013 · 14

  • 2026Human evolution is a product of both biological and cultural factors. Elaborate.
  • 2025How political economy is integrated with ecological and adaptability perspectives in bio-cultural anthropology?
  • 2025Critically discuss the centrality of the African continent in the narrative of human evolution.
  • 2024Critically discuss the synergistic effect of biological and cultural factors in human evolution.
  • 2023What is hominization process? Discuss the major trends in human evolution with the help of suitable examples and illustrations.
  • 2021“The bio-cultural approach is the hallmark of Biological Anthropology.” Explain. (in about 150 words).
  • 2021Explain the genetic mechanisms of micro and macro evolution.
  • 2020Elucidate how Darwin and Post-Darwin theories of evolution resulted in the development of Synthetic theory of evolution.
  • 2018Explain the biological changes that made human beings capable of making culture.
  • 2018Write a note in 150 words on Advanced Molecular Anthropology Techniques.
  • 2016Elucidate the biological and cultural factors in human evolution.
  • 2015Elucidate the biological and cultural factors in Human Evolution.
  • 2015Critically examine Darwin’s theory of evolution in understanding evolution.
  • 2013Discuss how Neo-Darwinism integrated the fields of Genetics and Evolution. (250 words).
Show 39 earlier questions (before 2013)

1981–2012 · 39 questions

  • 2012Write a note in 150 words on Adaptive tradition in context of evolution.
  • 2011Write a note in 150 words on Synthetic theory.
  • 2010What are the major craniofacial changes that occurred during Hominid evolution ? Discuss.
  • 2010Critically examine the synthetic theory of human evolution.
  • 2009Distinguish between ‘chronological age’ and ‘biological age’
  • 2008Discuss the modern theory of evolution with special reference to the concepts of gradualism and punctuationalism.
  • 2002What is Organic Evolution ? Explain the theories of evolution.
  • 1999Write a note on Molecular evolution.
  • 1997Write a note on Biological evolution of early man.
  • 1996Discuss the geographic distribution and taxonomic issues concerning early hominids. Elucidate evidence in support of alternative positions.
  • 1994How Darwinism differs from the synthetic theory of organic evolution ?
  • 1993What is Synthetic Theory of Evolution?Discuss how this theory helps us in understanding the evolutionary mechanism.
  • 1992Discuss the contemporary trends in evolutionary studies.
  • 1992Write a note on Synthetic theory of evolution.
  • 1992What is organic evolution ? Give evidences for human evolution.
  • 1991Write a note on Social-cultural evolution.
  • 1991What is organic evolution ? Describe the theories of organic evolution.
  • 1990Write a note on Micro evolution.
  • 1990Write a note on Synthetic theory of evolution.
  • 1990Evolution is biological and sociocultural. Discuss.
  • 1989Elucidate the Theory of Evolution as put forward by Lamarck.
  • 1989Write a note on Meaning of Biological and Socio-cultural Evolution.
  • 1988Give a critical account of the processes of organic evolution, and explain how they contribute to speciation.
  • 1987‘Evolution is biological and cultural’. Discuss.
  • 1987How is Darwinism different from Lamarckism ? Critically evaluate their contribution to synthetic theory of evolution.
  • 1986Write a note on Biological evolution and concept of new physical anthropology.
  • 1986Write a note on Lamarckism and Darwinism.
  • 1986Write a note on Relationship between cultural evolution and biological evolution.
  • 1985Write a note on Theory of organic evolution.
  • 1984Distinguish between : Lamarckism and Darwinism.
  • 1984Distinguish between : Macro-evolution and Micro-evolution.
  • 1984Discuss the inter-relation of biological and cultural dimensions in Human Evolution.
  • 1983Sociocultural evolution is not parallel to biological evolution in man. Substantiate.
  • 1983Microevolution has not ceased.Comment.
  • 1983Darwinism is not adequate to explain Darwinism is not adequate to explain view.
  • 1982Man has made himself. Justify.
  • 1982Human evolution has cultural dimensions. Elaborate.
  • 1981Has biological evolution caused in man? Briefly substantiate your answer. (200 words).
  • 1981Discuss the synthetic theory of human evolution. How does it differ from Darwinism?

1.5 Primates: characteristics, taxonomy, behaviour, fossil and living primates

40 questions · 13 since 2013 · last asked 2026
Read the notes: Primates · Fossil Primates, Living Apes, Man–Ape Comparative Anatomy and Erect Posture

Asked since 2013 · 13

  • 2026What are Strepsirhini Primates? Describe their geographical distribution and mention the characteristics that distinguish them from Haplorhini Primates.
  • 2025Discuss the Miocene hominoid remains and their significance in evolution.
  • 2025Write notes on: Smell as a signal among non-human primates.
  • 2022Discuss different forms of primate social organisation.
  • 2021Write notes on: The losses and gains of erect posture.
  • 2020Write notes on Jane Goodall’s contributions in studying primate behaviour in about 150 words.
  • 2020Illustrate with examples the various types of locomotion patterns among the non-human primates.
  • 2019Discuss the evolutionary significance of bipedalism and erect posture.
  • 2019Write a note in 150 words on Adaptive primate radiation.
  • 2017Bring out the comparative anatomical features of man and apes. Discuss their evolutionary significance.
  • 2016Explain the skeletal changes due to erect posture and their implications.
  • 2014Elucidate the skeletal differences between humans and chimpanzees.
  • 2013Write a note in 150 words on Role of primatology in Anthropological studies.
Show 27 earlier questions (before 2013)

1981–2012 · 27 questions

  • 2012Compare and contrast the skull of Gorilla and Man.
  • 2011‘Man is a primate.’ Discuss.
  • 2009List the major skeletal modifications in humans due to assumption of erect posture·.
  • 2000Describe the range of locomotive behavior of contemporary non-human primates and state how does it help in understanding the structural-functional correlations of their limb structure.
  • 1999Write a note on Fossil men.
  • 1998‘Man can stand erect while anthropoid apes cannot.’ Discuss the anatomical changes that occurred in Man due to erect posture.
  • 1997Discuss the gradualist view of evolutionary change vis-a-vis the punctuationalist view giving an example from primate evolution that supports one view or the other.
  • 1996Discuss primate locomotion with special reference to adaptations to arboreal life.
  • 1995Write a note on Adaptive tradition in primates.
  • 1994Describe the various way of getting mate in primitive society. Give examples from Indian context.
  • 1994Write a note on Primate.
  • 1994Narrate with reasons man’s place in Primate order.
  • 1993Discuss similarities and difference between Chimpanzee and Man in salient physical and anatomical Characteristics.
  • 1992What are the characteristic physical features of the Primate ? Show the position of Man among the other Primates in a tabular form.
  • 1992Write a note on Anthropoid apes.
  • 1991Why is Man a primate ? Describe the place of Man in the animal kingdom.
  • 1990Write a note on Causes of human variation.
  • 1988Write a note on Characters of primates.
  • 1987Write a note on Anthropoid apes.
  • 1986Discuss the evolution of primates with special reference to dentition.
  • 1986What are different fossil primates of the Palaeocene and Eocene times ?
  • 1986Discuss critically the contribution of these primates to human origin.
  • 1985Give a brief account of the distribution and physical features of the Asiatic Anthropoid apes.
  • 1983Discuss the claim of India to be the cradleland of man kind with references to fossil evidences.
  • 1983Living anthropoid apes are our distant cousins. Discuss.
  • 1982Man has not descended from monkeys. Justify.
  • 1981Discuss how man is unique primate.

1.6 Fossil hominids: Australopithecines to Homo sapiens

49 questions · 13 since 2013 · last asked 2026
Read the notes: Oreopithecus, Australopithecus and Paranthropus · Homo erectus and Homo heidelbergensis · Neanderthal, Rhodesian Man and Homo sapiens

Asked since 2013 · 13

  • 2026Discuss the phylogenetic status, characteristic features, geographical distribution and lifeways of Paranthropus.
  • 2025Write notes on: Osteodontokeratik culture and its makers.
  • 2024Discuss the geographical distribution of Homo erectus. Taking into account its physical features, where does it fit in human evolutionary line?
  • 2023Discuss major species of Australopithecus discovered from South and East Africa. Describe the discovery, physical features and significance of Taung baby.
  • 2022Should we still distinguish between ‘classic’ and ‘progressive’ Neanderthals? Discuss the controversy surrounding Neanderthal’s position in human evolution.
  • 2021What are the physical and cultural characteristics of Homo erectus ? Discuss its phylogenetic status.
  • 2020Critically evaluate the contesting theories of the emergence and dispersal of modern Homo Sapiens.
  • 2019“Europeans are closer to Neanderthals”. Critically discuss in view of the African origin of humankind.
  • 2019Write a note in 150 words on Olduvai Gorge.
  • 2018Describe the culture related to Homo erectus.
  • 2016Write a note in 150 words on Rhodesian Man.
  • 2015Describe the salient characteristics and geographical distribution of Homo erectus.
  • 2014Write a note in 150 words on Asian Homo erectus.
Show 36 earlier questions (before 2013)

1981–2012 · 36 questions

  • 2012Comment briefly on the phylogenetic position of Austrolopithecines.
  • 2011Write a note in 150 words on Neanderthal Man.
  • 2011Describe major skeletal similarities and differences between Homo erectus and Homo sapiens.
  • 2010Write a note in 150 words on Culture of Homo erectus.
  • 2010Why are Neanderlands called Premodern humans ? The Upper Palaeolithic period provides evidence of their coexistence with modern man. Discuss.
  • 2009Write a note on Homo habilis.
  • 2009Distinguish between major categories of Australopithecines. How are Australopithecines different from Apes?
  • 2007Write a note on Homo erectus.
  • 2006Write a note on Rhodesian Man.
  • 2005Write a note on Australopithecus.
  • 2004Write a note on Neanderthal Man.
  • 2003Write a note on Homo Erectus.
  • 2001Write a note on Erect Postrute.
  • 1999Write a note on Australopithecus.
  • 1998Write a note on Pithecanthropus erectus.
  • 1997Write a note on Homo habilis.
  • 1996Write a note on Homo sapiens sapiens.
  • 1995Write a note on Homo erectus finds from Africa.
  • 1995Discuss the question of single sources vs. multiple sources of the origin of Homo sapiens. Which one of the two hypotheses do you think is more tenable? Give reasons in support of your answer.
  • 1994Write a note on Homo Sapiens – Neanderthalensis.
  • 1993Compare the fossil remains of ‘Progressive’ and ‘Classic’ Neanderthal men for anatomical characteristics and spatial distribution. Examine their phylogenetic position in human evolution.
  • 1991Write a note on La Chapelle-aux-Saints.
  • 1991Write a note on Ramapithecus.
  • 1990Discuss the origin of Australopethecines. Describe their spatial distribution and growth and development.
  • 1989Write a note on Morphological Character of Homo erectus.
  • 1989Write what you know about Homo sapiens and Neanderthalensis.
  • 1988Discuss the different types of evidence of the Pithecanthropines, and give a critical appraisal of their place in human evolution in the light of latest discoveries in Africa.
  • 1987Discuss the spatial distribution, physical features, cultural status or origin of Australopithecines.
  • 1986Write a note on Homo Sapiens Sapiens and Homo Sapiens neanderthalensis.
  • 1985What do you understand by the term ‘homo sapiens’ ? Give an account of the distribution and physical features of the earliest fossil homo sapiens.
  • 1984Distinguish between : Homo sapiens and Homo Neanderthalensis.
  • 1984Determine the phylogenetic position of Homo-erectus.
  • 1983Homo erectus was not the earliest erect man of prehistoric times. Justify.
  • 1982Dryopithecus holds the clue for human origin. Discuss.
  • 1982Homo Sapiens Neanderthalensis was less capable than Homo Sapiens to Survive. Critically examine the views.
  • 1981“Homo Erectus was too specialized to have been the direct ancestor of Homo Sapiens.” Discuss.

1.7 The biological basis of life

11 questions · 7 since 2013 · last asked 2026
Read the notes: Biological Basis of Life

Asked since 2013 · 7

  • 2026Write notes on: Distinguishing features of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA.
  • 2025Write notes on: Mendelian and non-Mendelian traits.
  • 2025Write notes on: Mitochondrial DNA and human evolution.
  • 2024Write notes on: Lethal and sublethal genes.
  • 2024Write notes on: Single-gene mutation disorders in man.
  • 2023Write notes on: Gene expression.
  • 2019Write a note in 150 words on Implications of mutation in evolution.
Show 4 earlier questions (before 2013)

1988–2012 · 4 questions

  • 2009Write a note on Thrifty genotype.
  • 2008Write a note on Protein Synthesis.
  • 1992Write a note on Genes.
  • 1988Give an outline of the anthropological perspective of genetics and -critically evaluate the genetic significance of meiotic cell division.

1.8 Prehistoric archaeology, dating methods and prehistoric cultures

57 questions · 39 since 2013 · last asked 2026
Read the notes: Prehistoric Archaeology and Dating Methods · Palaeolithic Cultures · Mesolithic to Iron Age

Asked since 2013 · 39

  • 2026Write notes on: Ethnoarchaeology and classical archaeology.
  • 2026Give the distribution of Palaeolithic sites around the Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan areas, highlighting the typo-technologies of the tools.
  • 2026Write notes on: Thermoluminescence dating method.
  • 2026Write a detailed note on the characteristic features, chronology, geographical distribution, tool types and lifeways of Magdalenian cultural tradition of Europe.
  • 2025Write notes on: Fission track dating method and its applications.
  • 2025Write a note on Mousterian tool tradition, Mousterian culture and its makers.
  • 2025What are the major theories proposed in support of the origin of food production? How the change in subsistence economy brought revolution during this period?
  • 2024Write notes on: Harappan maritime trade.
  • 2024Describe the evidences of food production and domestication of animals with special reference to Mehrgarh. Throw light on its significance.
  • 2024Discuss the Acheulian and Oldowan traditions of Indian Paleolithic cultures with suitable illustrations.
  • 2024Write notes on: Chronometric dating.
  • 2023Discuss the Paleolithic environment in light of available evidences with special reference to India.
  • 2023Identify the major Mesolithic sites and describe the typo-technological features with special reference to India.
  • 2023Write notes on: Prehistoric significance of Rakhigarhi.
  • 2023Write notes on: Cultural impact of Iron Age.
  • 2022Write notes on: Mesolithic rock art in Indian subcontinent.
  • 2022Discuss with suitable examples the typo-technological problems in Indian palaeolithic industry with reference to environmental hypotheses.
  • 2022Enumerate the evidence of animal domestication in Indian microlithic industry.
  • 2021Write notes on Thermoluminescence (TL) dating in about 150 words.
  • 2021Describe the features of early farming cultures and Neolithic of the Near East.
  • 2021Discuss the salient features of different traditions of European Mesolithic.
  • 2020Write notes on Natufian culture in about 150 words.
  • 2020Differentiate between Lower Palaeolithic culture and Middle Palaeolithic culture with suitable examples.
  • 2019Write a note in 150 words on Relative Dating Methods.
  • 2019Elucidate’ Mesolithic culture and associated rock art with examples from India.
  • 2019Discuss briefly the major traditions in the Upper Palaeolithic culture of Europe.
  • 2019Discuss with examples the Megalithic culture of India in the archaeological context.
  • 2018Give an account of the consequences of  food production of Neolithic culture.
  • 2018Describe the principles of radiocarbon dating. Mention its limitations.
  • 2018Write a note in 150 words on Town Planning of Harappan Culture.
  • 2017Write a note in 150 words on salient features of Mesolithic culture.
  • 2017What are dating methods? Discuss one absolute method and one relative method in detail.
  • 2016Delineate the salient features of Chalcolithic cultures.
  • 2016Write a note in 150 words on Neolithic Cultures of India.
  • 2015Write a note in 150 words on Palaeolithic culture.
  • 2014Describe the absolute dating methods in Archaeology, highlighting the importance of each method.
  • 2014Describe the Neolithic culture of India.
  • 2013Write a note in 150 words on Carbon -14 method of dating.
  • 2013Give a broad outline of Paleolithic culture emphasizing upon its tool technology. (250 words).
Show 18 earlier questions (before 2013)

1995–2012 · 18 questions

  • 2012Write a note in 150 words on Relative dating methods.
  • 2012Discuss the typology and distribution of Upper Paleolithic cultures in India.
  • 2010Write a note in 150 words .on Importance of chronology in prehistory.
  • 2007Write a note on Neolithic.
  • 2006Write a note on Lower Paleolithic Culture.
  • 2005Write a note on Microlith.
  • 2004Write a note on Chalcolithic Culture.
  • 2002Write a note on Neolithic Culture.
  • 2002Write a note on Universal Cultural Evolution.
  • 2001Write a note on Mesolithic culture in India.
  • 2000Write a note on Copper-Bronze Age.
  • 1999Write a note on Carbon dating method.
  • 1999Describe any chalcolithic site in India with particular reference to mdustry and town planning.
  • 1998Neolithic is a ‘self-sufficient food producing economy.’ Critically examine this expression.
  • 1997Write a note on Problems of dating in Prehistoric Archaeology.
  • 1996Write a note on Radiometric methods of dating fossils.
  • 1995Write a note on Chronometric dating methods.
  • 1995What is the neolithic phase of culture in Europe called revolution ? Describe its distinctive features.

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Culture, Society, Marriage, Family and Kinship

Nature of culture and society; ethnocentrism and cultural relativism; marriage, family and household; descent, kinship terminology, filiation and alliance.

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Anthropology Optional

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