What's the best way to combat bullying or ragging? Does tit for tat always work?

It depends on the situation. Like I have always told my kids not to raise their voice or hands on anyone first but not to back out if the other person repeatedly keeps on bullying. They have been through these situations in life. First thing would be to ignore but the bullies take this as the sign of weakness. If it gets too much then one should retaliate.