Evidence shows that the farmers in the Indus Valley were highly productive because they built large granaries for wheat and rice.
The statement that evidence shows that the farmers in the Indus Valley were highly productive because they built large granaries for wheat and rice is partially accurate, but it oversimplifies the factors contributing to their productivity. While the presence of large granaries did play a role in ensuring sufficient food storage, there were various other factors that also contributed to the agricultural success of the Indus Valley civilization.
1. Advanced Irrigation Systems: The farmers in the Indus Valley developed an extensive network of canals and reservoirs to divert water from rivers like the Indus and its tributaries. These sophisticated irrigation systems allowed for effective water management and utilization, enabling higher agricultural productivity.
2. Agricultural Tools and Techniques: Evidence suggests that the Indus Valley farmers used advanced tools such as iron-tipped plows and wooden digging sticks, which improved cultivation processes and efficiency. They also employed crop rotation techniques to maintain soil fertility, ensuring sustained productivity.
3. Agricultural Surpluses and Trade: The presence of large granaries indicates that farmers were able to generate significant surpluses of wheat and rice. These surpluses were likely used for trade within and beyond the Indus Valley civilization, contributing to economic growth and development.
4. Urban Planning and Infrastructure: The well-planned cities in the Indus Valley had organized agricultural sectors, with fields bordering residential areas. This proximity facilitated efficient farming practices and reduced the time taken to transport harvested crops to storage in the granaries.
5. Environmental Adaptation: The farmers in the Indus Valley adapted to the local environment and its cycles. They understood monsoon patterns and utilized floodwaters for agriculture, allowing for the cultivation of multiple crops per year.
While the presence of large granaries played a crucial role in ensuring food security and surplus storage for the Indus Valley farmers, it is important to consider the broader spectrum of factors, including irrigation systems, advanced tools, trade, urban planning, and environmental adaptation, that collectively contributed to their high productivity and agricultural success.