VARANASI, Aug. 5 -- A genetic and bio-archaeological study is being conducted on a fragmented human skeleton recovered from Rajghat in Varanasi, a major archaeological site in the middle Ganga Valley. The aim of the study is to understand ancient Kashi inhabitants' genetics, lifestyle, and population links. The study is being conducted by the department of ancient Indian history, culture and archaeology, BHU, in collaboration with researchers at Gyan Lab at department of zoology, BHU. It aims at answering questions regarding the genetic identity and lifestyle of the ancient inhabitants of Kashi and the Ganga Valley, as well as the extent of their similarities or differences compared to the people of the Indus Valley Civilization (Rakhigarhi). Prof MP Ahirwar, the initiator of this study said, "Now, through modern scientific methods, we will attempt to understand who the ancient inhabitants of the Ganga Valley were, what their lifestyle was like, and what their genetic identity was. This collaboration with Gyan Lab is a meaningful step towards bridging the gap between archaeology and science." Ahirwar sent a proposal to Gyan Lab, BHU for the genetic study of the skeleton. From Gyan Lab, Dr Prajwal Pratap Singh, an expert in ancient DNA, carefully collected samples from the skeleton. BHU vice-chancellor prof Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi said, "This study on the Rajghat skeleton establishes a meaningful bridge between archaeology, history, and genetics. Such interdisciplinary research not only enhances the university's academic stature but also contributes significantly to a scientific understanding of India's ancient heritage. I commend this collaboration between the two departments."...