• The term Neolithic is derived from Greek ‘neo’, which means new, and ‘lithic’ meaning stone. Thus, the term ‘Neolithic Age’ refers to the ‘New Stone Age’ of the human culture.

• In the Indian sub-continent, it is dated back to around 8000 BC. The term ‘Neolithic’ was coined by Jonn Lubbock. The chief characteristic of this age was the new type of ground and polished stone tools.

• This period also marked the beginning of cultivation of plants and the domestication of animals. It led to the beginning of settled life and the growth of village settlements.

• The Neolithic culture had the following characteristics:

(i) Beginning of agricultural activities

(ii) Domestication of animals

(iii) Grinding and polishing of stone tools having sharper edges

(iv) Use of pottery