Correct Answer:
A. Mehrgarh Civilization
The correct answer is Mehrgarh Civilization. Mehrgarh is one of the earliest known sites with evidence of farming and pastoralism in South Asia, dating back to the Neolithic Era (around 7000-2500 BCE). It represents a crucial precursor to the later Indus Valley Civilization.
- Gandhara Civilization belongs to a much later period, primarily the Iron Age and classical antiquity, known for its unique art style.
- Mohenjo-daro Civilization and Indus Valley Civilization are synonymous and belong to the Bronze Age (around 2500-1900 BCE), characterized by urban planning and advanced metallurgy, succeeding the Neolithic period.