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SYNOPSIS [5th JULY,2021] Day 126: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

 

1. What status was the environment accorded during the Vedic period? How do Vedic symbols encapsulate the spirit of environment? Discuss.  

Approach 

First in Introduction give a brief introduction of Vedic period and then contextualise the environment part to it as its demand of question.In body part address both the demands of status of environment and symbols representing the role of environment.In conclusion with the summary try to contextualise to the current times for better impact.

Introduction

The Vedic Age was between 1500 BC and 600 BC. This is the next major civilization that occurred in ancient India after the decline of the Indus Valley Civilization by 1400 BC. The Vedas were composed in this period and this gives this age the name. Further the Vedas have several references in them on environmental protection, ecological balance, weather cycles, rainfall phenomena, hydrologic cycle, and related subjects that directly indicate the high level of awareness of the seers and people of that time.

Body

Status of Environment

Therefore the Vedic society which was nature worshiping society as they were in awe of day to day phenomena of seasonal changes , the moon and the sun.This led them to name various forces of nature as gods and goddesses.This system of worship is still followed in many parts of India.

Following symbols summarize the importance of spirit of Environment:

Conclusion

People of Vedic times considered every stakeholder in the environment as sacred. Their belief of God as creator of everything added dimension of purity to their approach towards environment. Way of life in those times itself was in harmony with environment which automatically helped in preservation and conservation.Therefore the present society in India and world can emulate the sustainable practices of Vedic period which can help them to live with harmony with nature. 


2. Examine the advancements made in the fields of urban planning and architecture during the Indus Valley Civilisation. Where do we find the marvellous examples of Indus Valley cities and architecture? 

Approach 

It’s a question based on basic topic of Indus valley civilisation.In this the candidate can start with brief introduction of Indus valley civilisation and urban nature of its planning.In next part write in detail major features of the urban planning and architecture.In next part write some examples of these to substantiate.In conclusion write a summary based and contextual conclusion.

Introduction

The Indus Valley Civilisation (IVC), also known as the Indus Civilisation, was a Bronze Age civilisation in the northwestern regions of South Asia, lasting from 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE, and in its mature form from 2600 BCE to 1900 BCE.It is the oldest urban culture excavated in Indian subcontinent as of now. Archeological excavations at various places such as Harappa, Mohenjo-Daro and Rakhigarhi indicate planned city settlements with several elements of uniformity in all Indus valley civilisation sites.

Body

Advances made in the fields of urban planning and architecture:

1. Streets and Roads

2. Drainage System 

3. The Great Bath

4. Granaries

5. Buildings

6. Dockyards

Marvellous examples of Indus Valley cities and Architecture:

Conclusion

This Indus valley civilisation had all the features of near to modern town planning and scientific thrust on architecture.This needs to be again be brought in Indian town planning as there is less focus on town planning and ad hoc cities are getting created without efficient drainage system which has led to urban flooding and dumping of garbage on the streets.This will help India achieve the targets of UN habitat program which envisions urban life with ease of living.


3. Recreation was an integral part of people’s lives during ancient times. Illustrate with the help of suitable examples.

Approach 

It is a straightforward question.First define what is meant by recreational activity and what purpose does it serve.In next part write various examples of recreation which were present in India with help of examples.In conclusion write what was function of these recreational activities.

Introduction:

Recreation was inseparable part of human existence since prehistoric times even before the start of settled life and empire building. It played vital part to present different identity of human traits from other animals. Several games now familiar across the world owe their origins in India, particularly, the games of chess, ludo (including ladders and snake), and playing cards. The famous epic Mahabharata narrates an incidence where a game called Chaturang was played between two groups of warring cousins.This shows the emphasis given by people of ancient period to recreation. 

Body

There were different ways of entertainment in ancient India such as painting, dancing, playing various games, singing and sculpturing.

Conclusion:

Recreation promoted a sense of joy and provided purpose to the life and living to people. Many times political changes made people’s life miserable but easy access to popular recreational activities in rural areas isolated people from outside impacts.Further many of these recreational art forms are fading from public memories which are of immense heritage value.Therefore the government, civil society and local administration should form a repository of these ancient recreational elements and also include these in school syllabus to make new generation aware about the ancient heritage of India.

TLP Synopsis Day 126 PDF

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