AIR 320 · CSE 2024 · ANT2 · 54 pages

Amit Meena: ANT2 answer copy

19 answers by Amit Meena, as written in the test.

The questions

  1. Q1(a)Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10 x 5 Bases of tribal religion10 marks
  2. Q1(b)Shifting agriculture among Indian Tribes10 marks
  3. Q1(c)Concept of Ethnic boundaries10 marks
  4. Q1(d)Scheduled Area10 marks
  5. Q1(e)Ethnoarchaeology as a research strategy10 marks
  6. Q4(a)Discuss the rise of ethno-nationalism among Indian communities with specific examples.20 marks
  7. Q4(b)Due to modernisation, urban industrialisation the extended kinship bonds had broken down and nuclear family had emerged as main alternative." Discuss various consequences of this change in context of Indian tribes.15 marks
  8. Q4(c)Critically examine the role of NGOs in promoting health & Education in tribal areas.15 marks
  9. Q5(a)Involvement of local communities in Forest Management10 marks
  10. Q5(b)Tribe as a colonial construct10 marks
  11. Q5(c)Sustainable Development of Tribes10 marks
  12. Q5(d)Q.5 (d) Pseudo tribalism10 marks
  13. Q5(e)Q.5 (e) Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf10 marks
  14. Q7(a)Critically assess the role of anthropology in rural development.20 marks
  15. Q7(b)"Decentralised and self-governance is essence of democracy." In light of this statement discuss the salient features of PESA Act of 1996 and its role in promotion of self-governance.15 marks
  16. Q7(c)Classify the tribal movements in contemporary India in a regional perspective and analyse the contributing factors.15 marks
  17. Q8(a)Critically examine the various structural constraints in the development of education among Scheduled Tribes.20 marks
  18. Q8(b)Discuss the concept of "indigenous people" in context of Indian tribes.15 marks
  19. Q8(c)GS Ghurye described Indian tribes as backward Hindus. Discuss the impact of Hinduism on tribal populations of India.15 marks

The answers

Question 1(a) · 10 marks · 254 words written

Write notes on the following in about 150 words each: 10 x 5 Bases of tribal religion

Opening · a definition

Tribal religion is a complex of beliefs and practices related to the supernatural, functioning to provide cohesion and meaning to the community. Unlike world religions, it is generally non-dogmatic, non-proselytizing and highly integrated with day-to-day life.

Body · points

Bases of Tribal Religion

  1. Animism (E.B. Tylor): It is the belief that natural objects (rocks, trees, rivers) and phenomena are endowed with souls or spirits. This explains the tribal reverence for nature.
  2. Aninatism (R.R. Marett): It suggests a belief in an impersonal, supernatural force (Mana) that permeates the universe. This force can bring good or bad luck.
  3. Totemism: A belief system where a group of people (clan) identify themselves with a particular plant or animal (totem). The totem is treated with reverence, often considered an ancestor or protector.
  4. Ancestor Worship: Many tribes believe that the spirits of the dead remain with the community, influencing its well-being. Offerings and rituals are performed to appease them.
  5. Magic and Rituals:
    • Magic: Use of rituals to control supernatural forces to achieve a specific end (e.g., rain, health).
    • Rituals: Rites of passage (birth, puberty, death) and seasonal festivals solidify communal bonds.
  6. Shamanism: Presence of a spiritual intermediary (Shaman/Medicine man) who communicates with the spirit world to heal, divine, or provide guidance.

Conclusion

Close · a summary

Tribal religion is not a separate sphere of activity but is woven into the social, economic, and political fabric of the tribe. It serves as a source of social solidarity and ecological harmony by creating a sacred relationship with the environment.