Urban Governance and Water Management in the Indus Valley: Rethinking Early State Formation in South Asia

A groundbreaking reinterpretation of governance in the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 2600–1900 BCE) reveals that early state formation in South Asia was likely driven by institutional systems and infrastructure rather than centralized monarchy or monumental displays. Analysis of archaeological data from key urban centers, including Dholavira, Mohenjo-daro, and Harappa, demonstrates high levels of institutional coordination through standardized construction practices, regulated trade systems, and advanced water management structures. These findings challenge traditional models that prioritize kingship and monumental architecture, instead highlighting collective governance, environmental management, and civic responsibility as alternative pathways to complex political organization.

Aziz Hasan. (2026). URBAN GOVERNANCE AND WATER MANAGEMENT IN THE INDUS VALLEY: RETHINKING EARLY STATE FORMATION IN SOUTH ASIA. INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION AND RESEARCH JOURNAL - IERJ. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.19234317