Prehistoric Cultures in India Notes for UGC NET History

Prehistoric cultures in India refer to the time before written records, characterized by the use of stone, copper, and iron tools. These cultures include the Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic, and Iron Age (Megalithic) periods.

Attirampakkam in Tamil Nadu is considered the oldest Paleolithic site in India, dating back to around 1.5 million years ago.

Bhimbetka (Madhya Pradesh) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its continuous occupation from the Lower Paleolithic to Mesolithic period and prehistoric cave paintings.

Microliths are tiny, sharp stone tools mounted on wood or bone. They were mainly used during the Mesolithic Age for hunting and daily tasks.

The earliest evidence of rice cultivation in India is found at Koldihwa (Uttar Pradesh), dated around 7000 BCE, during the Neolithic Age.