MAINS DAILY QUESTIONS & MODEL ANSWERS
Q1. What were the principal teachings of Guru Nanak? Explain their importance in today’s world.
GS I – Modern Indian History
Introduction:
- Guru Nanak was not only the founder of Sikhism but also a social reformer who advocated for honesty, equality, harmony, and service. In today’s environment, his lessons are still incredibly applicable.
The following are his main takeaways:
- Oneness of God (Ik Onkar): Guru Nanak rejected the idea of numerous deities and instead emphasised the belief in a one, all-encompassing God. In a society characterised by religious variety and strife, this monotheistic philosophy is essential because it fosters religious tolerance and harmony.
- Social Justice and Equality: Guru Nanak promoted social justice and equality, which influenced Sikhism’s beliefs about justice, gender equality, and service. His teachings continue to be a ray of light in the contemporary fight against inequality and discrimination.
- Selfless Service (Seva): Guru Nanak encouraged ‘Seva,’ or selfless service to humanity, which is still relevant today and fosters compassion, altruism, and a feeling of duty.
- Interfaith Dialogue: By emphasising unity in variety, Guru Nanak promoted interfaith harmony through talks. His lessons are still essential for promoting world peace and harmony.
- Rejecting Rituals and Superstitions: In order to appeal to people looking for a more profound, meaningful faith, Guru Nanak abandoned meaningless rituals and superstitions in favour of a personal relationship with God.
Way Forward:
- Guru Nanak’s teachings motivate inclusive, compassionate, and harmonious cultures in the modern world. They address contemporary challenges like social injustice and religious intolerance, pointing the way towards a more enlightened and equitable future.
Q2. What was the Indian tribal population’s reaction to colonial persecution and how did it impact them?
GS I – Social Issues
Introduction:
- The social, economic, and cultural fabric of these tribal cultures underwent tremendous transformations with the advent of colonial forces, particularly the British. Tribal inhabitants being uprooted, land being alienated, being exploited, and traditional ways of life being lost were frequently indicative of this impact.
Colonial Rule’s Physical Effects on Tribal People:
- Alienation from Land: The uprooting and alienation of indigenous communities from their land was one of the most important effects of colonial control.
- Exploitation of Labour: Tribal communities were frequently the target of labour exploitation. Numerous tribes were compelled to work in labor-intensive industries including mining, plantations, and road construction by the British government.
- Cultural Erosion: Tribal cultures and traditions were eroded as a result of colonial legislation, educational programmes, and religious activities.
- Forest Policies: Tribal people’ access to woods, which were essential to their way of life, was restricted by British forest policies.
Tribal Reactions to Invasive Colonialism:
- Armed Opposition: Tribal groups used force to oppose colonial governance. To defend their homelands, customs, and way of life, they planned insurrections and uprisings. Santhal, Munda, and Koya rebellions are a few examples.
- Cultural Preservation: In the face of colonial encroachment, some tribal communities concentrated on maintaining their customs and cultural legacy.
- guerilla Warfare: To oppose colonial powers, certain native communities used guerilla warfare techniques. They made use of their familiarity with guerilla warfare tactics and their knowledge of the local terrain.
Way Forward:
- Tribal groups in India responded to colonial tyranny in a variety of ways, using nonviolent campaigns and armed resistance to defend their rights, culture, and way of life. These initiatives have influenced current conversations and policies about the rights of tribal peoples and their development in contemporary India.
