Q. Consider the following statements about the archaeological findings in Harappan towns:
I. There is wide occurrence spindle-whorls in the houses but absence of spinning wheels.
ΙΙ. 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?
1. Statement I suggests that spinning was a laborious activity done at home.
2. Statement II suggests the extent of the scientific knowledge that the Harappans possessed.
3. Statement III suggests the emergence of a common property system.
Select the answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer : A

Explanation:

Inference I can be drawn: The wide occurrence of individual spindle-whorls (terracotta or faience discs used to spin thread by hand) inside individual houses, combined with the complete absence of mechanised spinning wheels (which were invented centuries later), implies that textile production was a decentralized, highly laborious, hand-spun domestic activity carried out at home.
Inference II can be drawn: The discovery of highly standardized weights (mostly cubical chert weights following a binary and decimal system) and measuring scales made of ivory, shell, or bronze featuring precise, linear graduations demonstrates a sophisticated level of practical scientific knowledge. It shows they possessed a mathematically uniform system of metrology across a vast geographical area.
Inference III cannot be drawn: The architectural layout described in Statement III—large private houses built with expensive baked bricks featuring private courtyards, private wells, and private bathing platforms—strongly points toward the existence of private property and socioeconomic stratification rather than a "common property system." It highlights a prosperous merchant or ruling class enjoying private, well-segregated luxury, while poorer sections lived in smaller, single-room barracks (like those found at Harappa).

Source: https://egyankosh.ac.in/bitstream/123456789/16902/1/Unit-19.pdf