Research in Mehtakhedi (M.P) will unearth new facts of human evolution and development

Bhopal: A lecture was organised by Dr. Vishnu Shridhar Archaeology Research Institute on the occasion of World Heritage Day –April 18 on “Protect our Pre-historic Heritage”. Retired Head of Department and Archaeologist Professor Sheela Mishra of Deccan College Post Graduate Research Institute Pune presented her case study on Mehtakhedi in Khargone district in context of Narmada Valley at State Museum premises which was presided over by Commissioner Archaeology and Public Relations Anupam Rajan.

Professor Mishra said that evidence of 50,000 –years- old ancient human civilisation has been found in the excavation carried out in the year 2009 at Mehtakhedi. In the excavation being carried out presently, there is possibility of this date reaching 80,000 years. According to Prof. Mishra Mehtakhedi is the country’s only spot where the earliest date related to modern humans has been found. This spot contains evidence of development related to early humans to modern humans. Hence, the conservation of this spot is most essential.

She said that research of this region of Narmada Ghati can bring to light several new facts related to human civilisation and development. Prof. Mishra stressed on the need to take requisite measures to protect archaeological heritage from natural calamities including human intervention like construction works, encroachments etc.

Post Doctoral Fello of Deccan College Dr. Neetu Agarwal gave lecture on “Potential of Advance Scientific Method to Understand the past”. She threw light on the updated techniques of fixation of date used in excavation in Mehtakhedi.

Information regarding Optically Stimulated Luminescence technique, Cosmogenic Nuclide Dating and Infrared technique for date fixation of stone and soil were also given in the lecture.-WTN