UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2023: Anthropology Paper 2 (Section- A) | Anthropology Optional for UPSC PDF Download

Section -  A

Q1: Write short notes on the following in about 150 words each : (10x5 = 50)
(a) Material culture and archaeology
Ans: 
Introduction: Material culture refers to the physical objects, artifacts, and structures created, used, or modified by humans. In archaeology, the study of material culture provides insights into past societies, their technologies, and their ways of life.

Significance of Material Culture in Archaeology:

1. Cultural Expression:

• Artifacts reflect the cultural, religious, and artistic expressions of a society. For example, pottery styles can reveal artistic traditions.

2. Technological Advancements:

• Tools, weapons, and other artifacts provide evidence of a society's technological capabilities and innovations.

• Example: The transition from stone tools to metal tools signifies a significant technological advancement.

3. Economic Systems:

• Artifacts related to agriculture, trade, and industry offer clues about economic practices and systems.

• Example: Ancient coins and trade goods reveal economic networks.

4. Social Organization:

• Architectural remains and household artifacts can indicate social structures, hierarchies, and living arrangements.

• Example: The layout of dwellings in ancient cities can suggest social stratification.

Conclusion:
Material culture is a fundamental aspect of archaeology, providing tangible evidence of past human activities. Through the study of artifacts, archaeologists reconstruct aspects of ancient societies, shedding light on their technologies, economies, and social structures.

(b) Interface between Purushartha and Ashrama
Ans: 
Introduction: 
In Hindu philosophy, Purushartha refers to the four fundamental goals or pursuits of life, while Ashrama signifies the four stages of life. The interface between these concepts delineates a framework for an individual's life journey.

Purushartha:

• Dharma (Righteousness): This pertains to moral and ethical duties and responsibilities one must uphold in life.

• Artha (Prosperity): Artha refers to the pursuit of material well-being, wealth, and success in one's endeavors.

• Kama (Desire/Pleasure): This encompasses the fulfillment of desires and seeking pleasures within the bounds of ethical conduct.

• Moksha (Liberation): Moksha represents the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation or union with the divine.

Ashrama:

• Brahmacharya (Student Stage): This is the period of education and self-discovery. It involves learning under a guru and adhering to celibacy.

• Grihastha (Householder Stage): This stage involves marriage, raising a family, pursuing a career, and contributing to society.

• Vanaprastha (Forest Dweller Stage): In this stage, individuals gradually detach from worldly responsibilities, retire to a simpler life, and focus on spiritual pursuits.

• Sannyasa (Renunciant Stage): This is the final stage, characterized by complete renunciation of worldly attachments and a focus on spiritual enlightenment.

Interface:

• The Purushartha goals are pursued within the context of the Ashrama stages, with each stage providing a specific framework for the pursuit of the four goals.

Conclusion:
The interface between Purushartha and Ashrama provides a comprehensive framework for guiding individuals through the various stages and pursuits in life, ultimately leading towards spiritual fulfillment and liberation.

(c) Jajmani system : continuity and change
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Jajmani system is a traditional economic and social structure in Indian villages, involving the reciprocal exchange of goods and services between different caste-based occupational groups.

Continuity:

• Caste-Based Occupational Roles: The Jajmani system is based on the hereditary occupation of different castes, where each caste has a designated role and responsibility.

• Social Hierarchies: The system reflects and reinforces social hierarchies, as higher-caste groups often receive services from lower-caste groups.

Change:

• Economic Transformation: Urbanization and modernization have led to a shift in economic activities, with many individuals and families moving away from traditional occupations associated with the Jajmani system.

• Monetary Transactions: In some areas, the exchange of goods and services has evolved into a more monetized system, with cash payments replacing traditional barter.

• Education and Mobility: Increased access to education and opportunities for mobility have allowed individuals to pursue non-traditional occupations, challenging the rigid caste-based structure.

Conclusion:
The Jajmani system, while still present in some rural areas, has experienced significant changes due to factors like urbanization, modernization, and increased mobility. While aspects of the system continue, it is no longer the sole economic and social framework in many regions.

(d) Prehistoric rock arts from Uttarakhand
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Uttarakhand, a region in northern India, is rich in prehistoric rock art, providing valuable insights into the ancient cultures and artistic expressions of early human societies.
Key Features:
1. Location and Sites:

• Uttarakhand is home to numerous rock art sites, with prominent locations including the Bhimbetka rock shelters and the Sahastra Tal rock art site.

2. Themes and Motifs:

• The rock art depicts various motifs such as human figures, animals, geometrical designs, and ritualistic scenes, offering glimpses into the cultural and religious practices of prehistoric communities.

• Example: The depiction of hunting scenes suggests the importance of hunting in early societies.

3. Dating and Periods:

• Through techniques like radiocarbon dating and stylistic analysis, the rock art in Uttarakhand has been dated to different periods ranging from the Upper Paleolithic to the Historic period.

• Example: Some rock art sites in the region date back to approximately 10,000 years ago.

Significance:

• The prehistoric rock art of Uttarakhand provides crucial evidence of early human creativity, cultural practices, and their interaction with the natural environment.

Conclusion:
The rock art in Uttarakhand serves as a window into the lives and artistic expressions of prehistoric communities. These ancient artworks contribute significantly to our understanding of early human societies in the region.

(e) Religious pluralism and social solidarity
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Religious pluralism refers to the coexistence of various religious beliefs and practices within a society or community. It plays a vital role in shaping social cohesion and solidarity.
Key Aspects:
1. Tolerance and Acceptance:

• Religious pluralism fosters an environment of tolerance and acceptance, where individuals with different faiths coexist peacefully.

• Example: India, known for its religious diversity, has a long history of coexistence among various religious communities.

2. Interfaith Dialogue:

• Pluralistic societies often engage in interfaith dialogue, facilitating understanding, respect, and cooperation among different religious groups.

• Example: Interfaith forums and discussions aimed at promoting harmony and addressing common social issues.

3. Social Cohesion:

• Religious pluralism contributes to social solidarity by emphasizing shared values, ethics, and goals that transcend religious boundaries.

• Example: Community service projects organized by religiously diverse groups to address humanitarian needs.

Challenges:

• While religious pluralism promotes harmony, it may also face challenges related to prejudice, discrimination, and conflicts arising from religious differences.

Conclusion:
Religious pluralism is a cornerstone of diverse and inclusive societies. By fostering tolerance, understanding, and social cohesion among different religious communities, it contributes to the overall well-being and solidarity of a multicultural society. However, it requires ongoing efforts to address challenges and promote mutual respect.

Q2:
(a) “Tribes are backward Hindus.” Critically comment with reference to the contributions of G. S. Ghurye.     (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
G. S. Ghurye, a prominent Indian sociologist, was known for his influential work on the sociology of tribes in India. His view that tribes were "backward Hindus" is a significant aspect of his analysis.

1. Ghurye's Perspective:

• Cultural Continuity: Ghurye argued that tribes in India shared certain cultural elements with the larger Hindu society, such as beliefs, rituals, and social practices.

• Hierarchy of Civilization: He believed that tribes represented an earlier and more primitive stage of social organization compared to the more complex and stratified Hindu society.

2. Critique:

• Simplification and Generalization: Ghurye's classification of tribes as "backward Hindus" has been criticized for oversimplifying the diverse and complex cultural and social realities of various tribal communities.

• Neglect of Distinct Identities: This perspective downplays the unique cultural, linguistic, and social identities of different tribal groups, treating them as homogenous entities.

Impact of Ghurye's Perspective:

• Policy Formulation: Ghurye's views influenced early policies regarding tribal welfare, which often sought to assimilate tribal communities into the mainstream Hindu society.

• Debate and Revision: His perspective sparked debates in the field of anthropology and sociology, leading to a more nuanced understanding of tribal societies over time.

Conclusion: While G. S. Ghurye's perspective on tribes as "backward Hindus" provided a framework for understanding the relationship between tribes and the larger Indian society, it has been subject to criticism for oversimplification and neglect of tribal diversity and distinctiveness.

(b) “Indus Valley was the first settlement of the big civilization.” Comment critically.      (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The statement implies that the Indus Valley Civilization was the earliest large-scale urban civilization. While the Indus Valley Civilization was indeed one of the earliest, its status as the absolute "first" has been subject to debate.
Critique:
1. Mesopotamian and Egyptian Civilizations:

• Contemporary with the Indus Valley, Mesopotamia (Sumer) and Egypt also developed complex urban civilizations. Determining which emerged first is challenging due to evolving archaeological discoveries.

2. Lack of Clear Chronology:

• Dating ancient civilizations is inherently complex, and new archaeological findings continue to refine our understanding of their emergence.

• Example: Recent discoveries in the Arabian Peninsula suggest urban centers there may have predated the Indus Valley.

3. Independent Development:

• The development of large-scale urban centers likely occurred independently in various regions, influenced by unique environmental, social, and economic factors.

Significance of the Indus Valley:

• Technological Advancements: The Indus Valley Civilization was known for its advanced urban planning, sanitation systems, and standardized weights and measures.

• Trade and Cultural Exchange: The civilization's extensive trade networks extended across the Indian subcontinent and into regions like Mesopotamia.

Conclusion :
While the Indus Valley Civilization is undoubtedly one of the earliest and most impressive urban civilizations, determining an absolute "first" is complex and subject to ongoing archaeological research and discoveries.

(c) Discuss the basic tenets of Jainism and its impact on Indian society.      (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Jainism, an ancient Indian religion, was founded by Lord Mahavira. It emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa), truth (satya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and asceticism.

Basic Tenets:

• Ahimsa (Non-Violence): Ahimsa is the cornerstone of Jain philosophy. It extends beyond physical harm to encompass non-violence in thought, speech, and action.

• Satya (Truth): Jainism advocates for truthfulness in all aspects of life. Practicing satya involves speaking and living truthfully.

• Aparigraha (Non-Possessiveness): Aparigraha emphasizes non-attachment and minimalism. It encourages individuals to limit material possessions and avoid greed.

Impact on Indian Society:
1. Cultural Influence:

• Jainism has left a profound cultural legacy in India, influencing art, architecture, literature, and philosophy.

• Example: Elaborate Jain temples like the Dilwara Temples in Mount Abu are renowned for their intricate marble carvings.

2. Social Ethics:

• Jain principles have contributed to the development of ethical values in Indian society, including compassion, non-violence, and truthfulness.

• Example: Contributions to charity, animal welfare, and humanitarian causes.

3. Vegetarianism and Environmental Consciousness:

• Jains are known for their strict vegetarianism, stemming from the principle of ahimsa. This has had an impact on Indian dietary practices.

• Example: Influence on the popularity of vegetarianism in certain regions.

Conclusion:
Jainism's emphasis on non-violence, truth, and non-possessiveness has had a profound influence on Indian culture and society. Its ethical principles continue to shape the values and behaviors of individuals in contemporary India.

Q3:
(a) “Sanskritization is a culture-bound concept.” Critically comment to assess the strength and limitation of this concept in developing a theoretical framework to study social change.      (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Sanskritization, coined by M.N. Srinivas, refers to the process through which lower caste or tribal communities in India adopt the customs, rituals, and practices of higher caste groups. It is a culture-bound concept with strengths and limitations in studying social change.

Strengths:

1. Cultural Transformation:

• Sanskritization provides a framework to understand how cultural practices and norms can influence social mobility and change.

2. Hierarchy and Aspiration:

• It highlights the role of social hierarchy and the aspiration for upward mobility in driving cultural change.

• Example: The adoption of vegetarianism and Brahmanical rituals by some lower caste groups in their pursuit of social elevation.

Limitations:

• Regional Specificity: Sanskritization may not be applicable to all cultural contexts, particularly those outside the Indian subcontinent.

• Neglect of Economic Factors: It tends to focus on cultural and ritual changes, potentially overlooking economic factors that influence social dynamics.

• Fluidity of Caste Boundaries: In contemporary times, caste boundaries have become more fluid, making it challenging to apply the concept in its original form.

Theoretical Framework:

• Sanskritization can be complemented with other theories like Modernization theory or Globalization theory to provide a more comprehensive understanding of social change.

Conclusion:
While Sanskritization offers valuable insights into cultural transformations within the Indian caste system, its applicability is limited to specific cultural contexts. It should be used alongside other theoretical frameworks for a more nuanced analysis of social change.

(b) Was Mesolithic culture the first step towards sedentary way of life? Illustrate your answer by citing suitable examples.       (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
The Mesolithic period, marked by the transition from the Paleolithic to the Neolithic, saw significant developments in human culture, including shifts towards settled communities.

Illustration with Examples:

1. Development of Semi-Permanent Settlements:

• During the Mesolithic, humans began constructing more substantial shelters, indicating a trend towards semi-permanent or seasonal settlements.

• Example: The site of Bagor in Rajasthan, India, shows evidence of semi-subterranean houses and storage pits, suggesting a sedentary lifestyle.

2. Domestication of Plants and Animals:

• While full-scale agriculture was not yet established, there is evidence of early attempts at plant cultivation and animal domestication.

• Example: Early cultivation of wild cereals in the Levant region.

3. Technological Advancements:

• Mesolithic cultures developed more sophisticated tools, including microliths, which were used in various activities like hunting, fishing, and woodworking.

• Example: The Tardenoisian culture in Europe is known for its distinctive geometric microliths.

Conclusion:
The Mesolithic period played a pivotal role in the transition towards settled communities, characterized by semi-permanent shelters, early forms of agriculture, and advancements in tool technology. While not yet fully sedentary, it laid the groundwork for later Neolithic developments.

(c) Critically examine the impact of modern democratic institutions on contemporary tribal societies. Illustrate with suitable ethnographic examples.      15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Modern democratic institutions have had both positive and complex impacts on contemporary tribal societies, influencing their social, political, and cultural dynamics.
Positive Impacts:
1. Political Representation:

• Democratic systems provide opportunities for tribal communities to have political representation, enabling them to voice their concerns and advocate for their rights.

• Example: The Panchayati Raj system in India has empowered local tribal communities in decision-making processes.

2. Legal Safeguards:

• Democratic constitutions often include provisions for the protection of tribal rights, land, and resources.

• Example: The Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution outlines special provisions for the administration and governance of tribal areas.

Complex Impacts:
1. Cultural Transformation:

• Participation in democratic processes can lead to the adoption of mainstream cultural norms, potentially affecting traditional tribal practices.

• Example: Changes in clothing, language, or religious practices influenced by interactions with non-tribal populations.

2. Conflict and Marginalization:

• Despite legal safeguards, tribal communities can still face challenges, including land disputes, resource exploitation, and marginalization.

• Example: Displacement due to large-scale development projects.

Conclusion :
Modern democratic institutions have provided opportunities for political representation and legal safeguards for tribal communities. However, their impact is complex, involving both positive empowerment and potential cultural transformation. Efforts are needed to balance the benefits of democratic participation with the preservation of tribal identities and rights.

Q4:
(a) Elucidate the problems faced by Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups and the major challenges in the formulation of special programmes for their development.       (20 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) face unique challenges that necessitate targeted development programs. However, formulating and implementing such programs comes with its own set of challenges.

Problems Faced by PVTGs:

1. Marginalization and Isolation:

• PVTGs often inhabit remote and inaccessible regions, leading to isolation from mainstream society and limited access to basic services.

• Example: The Jarawa tribe in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

2. Economic Exploitation:

• They face exploitation in terms of land alienation, bonded labor, and unfair resource extraction practices.

• Example: The Dongria Kondh tribe in Odisha facing threats due to mining projects.

3. Cultural Erosion:

• Exposure to external influences and modernization can erode traditional languages, customs, and practices.

• Example: The erosion of traditional hunting and gathering practices among the Paniyas in Kerala.

Challenges in Special Programmes:

1. Cultural Sensitivity:

• Designing programs that respect and preserve the unique cultural identity of PVTGs is challenging.

• Example: Ensuring that education initiatives incorporate traditional knowledge and values.

2. Infrastructure and Access:

• Building infrastructure in remote areas and ensuring access to healthcare, education, and basic amenities is logistically complex.

• Example: Constructing roads and bridges in hilly or forested terrain.

3. Ensuring Sustainability:

• Programs must be sustainable in the long term to prevent dependency and ensure continued development.

• Example: Implementing eco-friendly livelihood projects that align with tribal practices.

Conclusion:
PVTGs face a range of challenges stemming from their marginalized status. Designing effective development programs requires careful consideration of cultural, logistical, and sustainability factors.

(b) Critically compare Risley’s and Sarkar’s approaches to the classification of peoples of India.       (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Herbert Risley and Radhakamal Mukerjee (Sarkar) were two prominent scholars who proposed distinct approaches to classifying the peoples of India.

Risley's Racial Classification:
1. Racial Typology:

• Risley classified the Indian population based on physical features into Aryan, Dravidian, Mongoloid, and other groups.

• Example: He associated certain traits with each group, such as skin color and facial features.

2. Critique:

• This typology has been widely criticized for its oversimplification and the imposition of Western racial categories on diverse Indian populations.

Sarkar's Socio-Cultural Classification:
1. Social and Cultural Criteria:

• Sarkar focused on social and cultural criteria, emphasizing factors like language, religion, and occupation.

• Example: He classified communities based on linguistic and occupational characteristics.

2. Critique:

• Sarkar's approach has been praised for its consideration of cultural diversity but criticized for potential oversights in addressing hybrid or mixed groups.

Comparison:

• While Risley's approach relied on physical attributes and Western racial concepts, Sarkar's approach was more rooted in indigenous social and cultural realities.

Conclusion:
Risley's and Sarkar's approaches reflect different paradigms in the classification of peoples in India. While both approaches have merits, Sarkar's socio-cultural classification is considered more nuanced and contextually relevant.

(c) Is caste mobility a recent phenomenon? Discuss in the light of Indological and Empirical context.      (15 Marks)
Ans: 
Introduction: 
Caste mobility refers to the ability of individuals or groups to change their social status within the caste system. It has been a subject of interest in both theoretical and empirical studies.

Indological Perspective:

1. Traditional View:

• Some early scholars believed that caste mobility was limited, with rigid boundaries between castes.

• Example: Louis Dumont argued that caste hierarchies were intrinsic to Indian society.

2. Limitations:

• This perspective may have underestimated the capacity for change and mobility within the caste system.

Empirical Perspective:

1. Historical Examples:

• History provides instances of caste mobility through factors like education, economic success, and political influence.

• Example: The rise of leaders from historically marginalized castes to prominent political positions.

2. Legal and Policy Interventions:

• Affirmative action policies, such as reservations, have provided opportunities for social mobility to historically disadvantaged groups.

• Example: Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) reservations in India.

Conclusion:
Caste mobility has evolved over time. While the Indological perspective emphasized rigidity, empirical evidence demonstrates that mobility has been facilitated through education, economic progress, and policy interventions. However, challenges persist, and continued efforts are needed to promote greater social equality and inclusivity.