Ratadiya Ri Dheri: New Harappan Site in Jaisalmer’s Thar Desert
Why in the news
A fresh Indus Valley Civilisation site was reported deep in the Thar desert.
Key facts
- Probably a small rural settlement linked to Sindh’s Harappan network, with regional trade.
- Lies south of the earlier site at Pilibanga, extending the known IVC range.
Finds
- Red ware: bowls, pots, perforated jars.
- Clay and shell bangles, terracotta objects, wedge-shaped bricks, chert blades.
- Circular kilns with central columns, like Kanmer and Mohenjo-daro.
Significance
It bridges the gap between Harappan sites in northern Rajasthan, such as Kalibangan, and Gujarat, and shows adaptation to desert life.
Exam angle
- District: Jaisalmer.
- Compare kilns with Kanmer.