Prehistory and Protohistory in India and Pakistan c3.9

c3.9

Evidence is also accumulating from the excavations at Ahar about the early smelting or refining of copper. Chemical analysis by the author's colleagues suggests that the local sources were exploited. Likewise very interesting information is coming forth from the explorations and excavations of Shri P. C. DAS GUPTA and his assistants in the Ajay Valley, Burdwan District, West Bengal. Chances are that here we shall have proof of the earliest use of iron by a people who seem to have been familiar with the painted pottery tradition of a still remoter age. Whatever be the final outcome, further extended work in the Chota Nagpur plateau will help fill up the gap between history and protohistory and explain the role of primitive tribes like Savaras and Santhals in it.