DNA From Ancient Burials in Kashmir Reveals Genetic Bridge
In a landmark study, scientists have reconstructed ancient DNA from Burzahom, a Neolithic site in Kashmir, revealing genetic links between early Kashmiris and populations in Central Asia, the Swat Valley, and Europe.
This research, published in Scientific Reports, highlights Kashmir's role as a genetic and cultural bridge over 7,000 years, showing both deep local continuity and episodic contact with distant lands.
Indian and Kashmiri scientists have successfully reconstructed ancient DNA from human burials at Burzahom, one of South Asia’s earliest Neolithic sites near Srinagar.
The study, published in Scientific Reports by researchers from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences and the University of Kashmir, traces Kashmir’s maternal ancestry over 7,000 years, revealing that the people who lived here shared genetic links with populations as far as Central Asia, the Swat Valley, and Europe.
No direct quote available.
Author's summary: Ancient DNA reveals Kashmir's genetic bridge to Central Asia and Europe.