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Archives-Think and Learn-Mains 2015
Synopsis and Review – Think and Learn [Day 18]
GS 1) Write a note on the contribution of Sufi tradition to the culture of India.
The Top Answer for this question is written by – Nishant
Ans) Starting as a liberal reform movement within Islam, Sufism ended up making a valuable contribution to India’s cultural landscape during the medieval period. It can be studied under the following broad headings:
Religion
1. Sufism stressed on elements such as love and devotion to God, service of humanity. These were later popularized by Bhakti Saints like Ramananda, Kabir etc. This brought man closer to God without the complex vedic-priestly philosophy and rituals.
2. Sufi sect became an integral part of Mughal rule especially under Akbar. The peaceful co-existence of different religions is a testimony to its universal appeal.
3. India’s socio-religious revivalism in the 19th century drew inspiration from Sufism on ideas like monotheism, non-idolatry worship, social equality etc.
4. Sikh Religion was a direct result of Sufism.
Music
1. Added a unique character to the Hindustani School of Music as separate from Carnatic School
2. Amir Khusrao and Galib introduced singing styles like Khayal, Tarana and Ghazal
3. Popular for their flexibility and pace, these styles added romanticism and a poeticness to Indian Music
4. This music is used in Hindi movies in contemporary times.
Not in the grand forts or majestic temples, but among the common people is where Sufism left an indelible mark. Its impact echoes louder today than ever before.
GS 2) Why is there a demand for decriminalising attempt to commit suicide in India? Critically examine the merits and demerits of existing law of criminalising suicide
The Top Answer for this question is written by – Aditi
Ans) The act of attempted suicide is criminalized in India under section 309 of IPC. The maximum punishment awarded is imprisonment for a year.
The Mental health care Bill 2013 which decriminalized an attempt to suicide was introduced in Rajya sabha on August 2013 and its pending in the parliament.
There is demand for decriminalizing suicide because It is envisaged that section 309 of IPC is highly insensitive provision that require a person to die successfully or be prosecuted and can be seen as logic “If you kill yourself successfully you’ll be acquitted. If you’re unsuccessful you’ll be arrested”
Merits of Existing Law:
– State can intervene in cases of fasting unto death for a social or political cause (Like it does in Irom Sharmila’s case who started strike a decade back in Manipur)
-Where social attempts occur with the help of stressors e.g. suicide bombers can be hooked
Demerits:
-It indicates we are not willing to give human a second chance.
-Indian Police is not very sensitive in such cases and often this lead to harassment of the victim who is in dire need of counseling.
-Treating suicide as criminal act will not stop suicide.
Decriminalizing is more sensitive and human way of dealing with the problem as compared to prosecution.
GS 3) What is Green Energy Corridor? Write a note on the energy relationship between India and Germany.
The Top Answer for this question is written by – Sepoy No. 1446
Ans) The green energy corridor project aims at integrating electricity generated from renewable energy sources,primarily form solar and wind power to main electric grid.This project holds special importance given India’s increased emphasis on renewable energy sources.Under National solar mission India aims to reach target of 100,000 MW electricity generation by 2022.
There is also much focus on wind energy.All these sources need to be integrated to main grid.Green corridor project will facilitate distribution of electricity form renewable energy sources across entire country and will decrease burden on coal based thermal power plant.The project will be completed by PGCIL in collaboration with Germany.
Energy relationship between India and Germany
Germany is a leading producer of renewable energy and currently producing 30% of its electricity using renewable sources.It is also shutting down all its nuclear plants and will focus more on renewable energy.In that context It has lot to offer to India in matter of energy and especially in matter of renewable and clean energy.
1.Energy is one of the three areas of co-operation of Indo-German development cooperation(IGDC) agreed in 2008.
2.German Development Bank(Kfw) will provide 1 billion Euro for India’s green corridor project.
3.Germany provides technical and financial support to Green corridor project.
