A synthesis of the Early to Late Holocene palaeoclimate variability from the dryland region of Kachchh, Western India and its impact on human inhabitation

This study synthesizes Holocene palaeoclimatic variability in the Kachchh region, Western India, and its profound influence on human inhabitation, driven primarily by the dynamics of the Indian Summer Monsoon (ISM). A review of multi-proxy records from three key zones—the Rann, Kachchh Mainland, and coastal regions—provides insights into the climatic evolution of the region during the Holocene. The palaeoclimatic shifts, often intertwined with sea-level changes, profoundly influenced human settlement patterns, adaptive strategies, and the socio-cultural fabric of ancient societies. Our analysis highlights the significant role of climatic variability in the decline of Harappan cultural centres, such as, Dholavira, Kanmer and Khirsara. The widespread aridification observed during the Late Holocene, likely triggered by weakening monsoon activity, led to the desiccation of rivers, retreat of seawater, and eventual site abandonment. These environmental stresses undermined the sustenance of advanced civilizations, emphasizing the critical link between climate dynamics and human resilience. Despite these findings, a comprehensive understanding of coastal adaptations and the impacts of sea-level fluctuations on ancient settlements remains elusive. This calls for systematic investigations of coastal archives to unravel the nuanced interactions between palaeoclimate, sea-level changes, and human responses. Continental records, on the other hand, provide robust proxies for deciphering monsoonal variability and its implications for the broader ecological and cultural landscape of Gujarat. In summary, the Kachchh region exemplifies a dynamic palaeoecological domain, where Holocene climatic and environmental changes played a pivotal role in shaping human history. This synthesis underscores the need for integrated, multi-proxy approaches to further elucidate the complex interplay between climate, environment, and ancient societies in this climatically sensitive dryland region.