‘India’s tools, techniques, and craft technologies remain underexplored unlike civilisations worldwide’

The conference is organised in collaboration with Anusandhan National Research Foundation, Archaeological Survey of India, Indira Gandhi Manav Sangrahalaya, Gujarat State Directorate of Archaeology and Museums, Gujarat Council on Science, Technology, and French National Centre for Scientific Research.

Prof Alok Tripathi, Additional Director General, Archaeological Survey of India, said, “India has an exceptionally rich cultural heritage, and scientific analysis enables researchers to go beyond physical examination to understand the composition, provenance, trade networks, and technological advancements associated with ancient objects. These approaches help us gain a deeper and more accurate understanding of our past,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of public engagement, he added, “Research should not remain confined to academic journals. Significant findings must reach society so that people can understand, value, and actively participate in preserving our heritage.” He also noted that scientific analysis offers insights into India’s heritage that traditional methods alone cannot provide.

“The conference has brought together archaeologists, geochemists, and scientists from different disciplines on a single platform, enabling meaningful interaction and collaboration. Such interdisciplinary engagement is essential for advancing archaeological science in a more forward-looking and future-oriented manner,” said Prof K Rajan of Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology. He stressed that collaboration between archaeologists and scientists helps uncover the technological, cultural, and trade significance of metals and emerging fields like ancient DNA, palaeobotany, and archaeology.

An archaeological exhibition, featuring over 4,000-year-old metal artefacts, including anthropomorphics, iron tools, and other finds from eleven significant sites across India, was also a part of the conference. Exhibits included artefacts from Gujarat (Prabhas Patan, Rojdi, Shikarpur), Tamil Nadu (Kilnamandi, Mayiladumparai, Sasthapuram, Thirumalapuram), Uttar Pradesh (Ganeshpura, Harinagar, Sakatpur Must), and the latest discoveries from Lothal (2024–25).