Is Non-violence relevant in the 21st century?

The name Mahatma Gandhi is instantly associated with "non-violence". He preached the principle of turning the other cheek when slapped. But in today's corrupt, fast-paced and aggressive world, will an impulsive individual take this decision?
Generation X. A generation brimming with hopeful and determined youth. A generation full of anxious individuals waiting with bated breath to get their hands on success. Gandhigiri might be a tempting option to remain out of trouble, but for them, it might mean pure cowardice! But Gen-X is not one to back down from a challenge.But is non-violence really the solution to all our problems? I think not.
Looking back at our freedom struggle, which was largely non-violent, we also remember martyrs like Bhagat Singh who wielded their guns and showed the British that we are not just men of words. Without them, the independence struggle would not have been as successful. It would not have the power to influence the youth of today.
The last protest that we saw on our television sets was the "Save Tibet" demonstration. We saw that the protestors used non-violent methods to get their points across. But then, we also saw policemen with batons using force on the harmless agitators. If protestors are condemned on using violence, then why is the government always ready to show us who's boss?
The only reason wars erupt between countries is that when one country attacks the other, the other does not sit around and watch the fireworks. They load their guns, arm their tanks and get ready for battle! They fight and defend their motherland. Because, actions speak louder than words.
Let us take an example. If your dear one was being beaten up in a fit of rage by someone, would you shout slogans and keep fasts and pray that the man stops? Would you try to talk sense with that person, who is so busy aiming his fists at the right places that he won't notice you anyway? Or would you fight?
Something to think about, really...