A major genetic research project is underway in India to analyze DNA from human remains discovered during archaeological excavations of the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished 3,500-5,000 years ago in what is now India and Pakistan. The Anthropological Survey of India (ASI) is leading this initiative in collaboration with the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, one of only two facilities in India capable of ancient DNA analysis.
The project aims to examine more than 300 human bones and bone fragments collected during colonial-era excavations from the 1920s to 1950s at significant Indus Valley sites such as Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro. By comparing ancient DNA sequences with those of modern populations, researchers hope to fill crucial gaps in understanding the history of Indian populations, including their origins, migrations, diets, living conditions, and diseases.
This research is significant because South Asia, despite having one of the world’s most diverse populations, is underrepresented in genomic studies. Current knowledge of Indian population genetics comes primarily from studying modern DNA, and ancient DNA analysis could help validate or expand these findings. Scientists are especially interested in understanding historical practices such as rice cultivation along the Ganges River and the origins of certain genetic diseases that are prevalent in some Indian populations due to endogamy.
However, the project faces significant challenges. DNA degradation occurs more rapidly in tropical climates, and historical excavation and handling practices may have further compromised the samples. Despite these obstacles, researchers remain optimistic. Even if only 10 percent of the samples yield usable DNA, scientists believe the results could provide valuable insights. The team aims to complete their analysis by the end of 2025.
Leading geneticists not involved in the study, including Partha Majumder from the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics and K Thangaraj from the Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology, have expressed support for the project’s potential to enhance understanding of ancient ancestries and migrations in the region. However, Gyaneshwer Chaubey from Banaras Hindu University, who is involved in the project, suggests that the findings are likely to refine rather than revolutionize current scientific understanding of Indian population history.
The project represents a significant step forward in understanding the genetic heritage of South Asia, combining archaeological evidence from one of the world’s earliest civilizations with cutting-edge genetic analysis techniques. While challenges exist, the potential insights into population movements, disease evolution, and ancient lifestyles make this research valuable for both historical and medical understanding.
