Stone tools found in Ib Valley suggest human presence in Sundargarh 40,000 years ago

Stone tools discovered in the Ib river valley in Odisha's Sundargarh district have indicated that human habitation may have existed in the region between 40,000 and 60,000 years ago, researchers said. The findings are believed to date back to the Middle and Upper Palaeolithic periods.

The discovery was made by researchers from the history department of Government Autonomous College, Sundargarh, during a two-year field survey as reported by Times of India.

Two-Year Field Survey In Ib Valley

The survey was led by assistant professor Sakir Hussain along with postgraduate students. With Sundargarh already known for its pre-historic rock paintings, the team initiated a systematic archaeological exploration in the Ib valley region, focusing on Balijori and Baladmal under Sadar block.

During the course of the survey, several stone tools were unearthed. These tools are believed to have been used by early humans for hunting and other aspects of daily life.

Hussain said that aspects such as raw material selection, core reduction strategies, retouch patterns and degrees of tool standardisation are being closely examined. These are being compared with well-dated reference assemblages from other regions to strengthen the cultural interpretation at a prima facie level.

Earlier Geological Significance In District

Sundargarh has previously drawn attention for its geological importance. In 2023, the Geological Survey of India identified a unique geo-heritage site at Chengapahad near Kanika Brahmani village under Hemgir block. The site was listed among 90 rare geo-heritage locations in the country and is believed to date back to the Jurassic period.

Researchers believe the latest findings add further depth to the district’s prehistoric and geological significance.