Indian Prehistory refers to the period in the Indian subcontinent before written records were kept. This era is primarily studied through archaeological findings, which include tools, pottery, and cave paintings. The earliest inhabitants were hunter-gatherers, who later transitioned to agriculture around 7000 BCE, leading to the development of settled communities. The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the earliest urban cultures, emerged around 2500 BCE. It featured advanced city planning, drainage systems, and trade networks. Following this civilization, various cultures and societies evolved, laying the foundation for the rich history of India that followed.