Identify the term used for the study of DNA of ancient population?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Archaeogenetics
Archaeogenetics is the study of the DNA of ancient populations. It uses the methods of molecular genetics to understand the history of populations. Such research has been carried out at the Harappan site of Rakhigarhi. ‘Straitgenes’ is not a real term.
NCERT (2025-26): “9. The End of the Civilisation … In this respect, it is necessary to mention the recent archaeogenetic research carried out at the site of Rakhigarhi. The site, located in Hisar district of Haryana, is the biggest Harappan city, spread over an area of 550 Hectare. In order to study the genetic history of the Harappans, DNA was extracted from the skeletal remains excavated at Rakhigarhi. This research was carried out by The Deccan College Deemed University, Pune in collaboration with Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad and The Harvard Medical College. The analysis of the data indicates that the Harappans are the indigenous people of this region. The genetic roots of the Harappans go back to 10,000 BCE. The DNA of the Harappans has continued till today and a majority of the South Asian population appears to be their descendents.… 10.1 Cunningham’s confusion … Archaeogenetics is the study of DNA of ancient population. It involves various methods of molecular genetics to understand population history.” |