ASI Transfers Rakhigarhi Harappan Skeletal Remains to Anthropological Survey of India for Scientific Studies

Inter-Agency Collaboration on Indus-Saraswati Heritage

On June 22, 2026, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) completed the formal transfer of human skeletal remains recovered from the ancient site of Rakhigarhi in Haryana to the Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI). This transfer is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two premier institutions. The partnership is designed to bring multidisciplinary scientific expertise to bear on the biological remains of the Indus-Saraswati Civilization, shifting from traditional material-culture analysis to advanced bio-anthropological examinations.

Excavations at Mound No. 7

The remains were excavated during the 2025–26 field season by archaeologists from the ASI’s Excavation Branch-II. The excavations targeted Mound No. 7 at Rakhigarhi, a well-established cemetery site from the mature Harappan period. A total of eight burials were uncovered, revealing diverse funerary practices and grave goods. The current transfer comprises three complete human skeletons and several diagnostic skeletal fragments. These remains have been moved to the AnSI’s ancient human skeletal repository and laboratory facilities in Kolkata. Additional skeletal materials from the excavations are scheduled for transfer in subsequent phases.

Advanced Scientific Investigations

Scientists and anthropologists at the Kolkata laboratory will subject the remains to several advanced analytical techniques, aiming to reconstruct the life histories of the ancient inhabitants:

• Ancient DNA (aDNA) Analysis: Researchers will attempt to extract and sequence ancient DNA to establish genetic relationships, ancestry, and migration patterns of the Harappan population. One of the skeletons has already had samples sent to the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP) in Lucknow for DNA extraction.
• Stable Isotope Analysis: By analyzing isotopes in tooth enamel and bone collagen, researchers can determine the diet, nutritional intake, and geographical origins of the individuals (distinguishing between locals and migrants).
• Palaeopathology and Osteology: Detailed bone analysis will reveal structural stress, age at death, gender distribution, occupational hazards, and diseases prevalent in the ancient society.
• 3D Facial Reconstruction: Using craniofacial reconstruction techniques, experts plan to recreate the facial structures of the Rakhigarhi residents, providing a visual window into the physical appearance of Harappans.