The world faces an unprecedented environmental crisis, characterised by climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and resource depletion. Every country and citizen must play a role in conserving the environment. India, with its strong cultural heritage and value system centered around environmental conservation, is uniquely positioned to lead by example. As Indian citizens, it is our responsibility to revisit and uphold our cultural heritage, taking decisive steps towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Sustainability and Indian culture
Sustainability is deeply embedded in Indian culture, with philosophical and ethical frameworks promoting a sustainable way of living. The yogic principle of aparigraha stresses on non-attachment to material possessions, and fostering a minimalist lifestyle that reduces waste. The Bishnoi community in Rajasthan exemplifies the harmonious relationship between humans and nature, with their faith, including a commitment to protecting wildlife. Yoga and Ayurveda, promote balance and harmony with nature, and advocate for natural and sustainable health remedies.
Sustainable practices are integral to everyday life in India. Households repurpose items, such as turning old clothes into cleaning rags and recycling newspapers. Practices like bucket baths, sun-drying clothes, and hand-washing dishes conserve resources. Rural communities, comprising about 70 per cent of the population (as of 2011), live close to Nature and follow sustainable principles. According to the Greendex report by National Geographic and GlobeScan, India ranks highly in sustainable living among 18 countries, thanks to the sustainable practices ingrained in its people.
Festivals too lay stress on environmental conservation – eco-friendly clay lamps for Diwali, organic colors for Rangoli, natural dyes for Holi, among other. Our traditional agricultural practices, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and use of natural fertilisers, contribute to soil health and biodiversity, and hence are sustainable in nature.
Contrasts with Amazon deforestation
In Brazil, the beef industry drives significant deforestation in the Amazon, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. The government’s dismissive attitude exacerbates these issues. In contrast, India’s cattle grazing scenario is influenced by cultural reverence for cows, with a focus on dairy rather than beef. While overgrazing can cause land degradation, its environmental impact is far less severe as compared to Brazil. Indian laws against cow slaughter and traditional sustainable farming practices further mitigate ecological damage, contrasting sharply with Brazil’s beef industry-driven environmental challenges.
Common but differentiated responsibilities
The principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) is a cornerstone of international environmental policy. It is crucial for a rapidly developing nation like India to balance economic growth and environmental conservation. As the country looks ahead to 2047, the centenary of its Independence, the commitment to CBDR will play a vital role. While enhancing its own environmental policies, investing in renewable energy, and adopting sustainable practices across various sectors, India has been quite vocal about the need for developed nations to take the lead in reducing carbon emissions so as to reduce global warming.
Carbon credits and market mechanisms
India actively participates in the carbon credit market, and it promotes projects in renewable energy, afforestation, and sustainable agriculture. The Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme that sets energy efficiency targets for industries, rewarding those that exceed their targets with tradeable energy-saving certificates, exemplifies this commitment. India’s engagement in carbon markets is expected to expand by 2047, which will foster innovation and drive the transition to a low-carbon economy.
India is a signatory to numerous international environmental treaties and agreements, reflecting its commitment to global environmental governance. The key agreements are: Paris Agreement (2015): India has pledged to reduce the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33-35 per cent by 2030, compared to 2005 levels, and to achieve 40 per cent of its cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by the same year.
Montreal Protocol (1987): Focuses on protecting the ozone layer by phasing out the production of substances responsible for ozone depletion. Convention on Biological Diversity (1992): Aims to conserve biological diversity, promote sustainable use of its components, and ensure fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources. India’s active participation in these conventions highlights its role as a responsible global player. Moving towards 2047, India aims to strengthen its commitments and enhance its role in shaping international environmental policies.
Initiatives to save the environment
India has launched numerous initiatives to protect the environment and promote sustainability. Key programs include the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Namami Gange Programme, and the International Solar Alliance (ISA).
In 2023-2024, the government introduced several initiatives to enhance environmental sustainability. The Green India Mission focuses on increasing forest cover and biodiversity. The National Water Mission promotes water conservation and efficient water use. The National Clean Air Programme targets a 20-30 per cent reduction in particulate matter by 2024. The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana provides free LPG connections to reduce biomass fuel use, and the Jal Shakti Abhiyan is about water conservation.
India’s efforts towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include the Jal Jeevan Mission for clean water (SDG 6), the National Solar Mission for renewable energy (SDG 7), and the Smart Cities Mission for sustainable urban development (SDG 11). Additionally, the National Policy on Biofuels supports responsible consumption (SDG 12), and various initiatives address climate action (SDG 13), marine conservation (SDG 14), and terrestrial ecosystem protection (SDG 15).
India’s journey towards a sustainable and environment-friendly Bharat by 2047, is underpinned by its commitment to CBDR, active participation in international agreements, innovative initiatives, and the integration of traditional knowledge systems. These efforts collectively aim to create a balanced, sustainable, and prosperous future for the nation and the world. By leveraging its cultural heritage and implementing forward-thinking policies, the country is poised to lead by example, fostering a global movement towards environmental sustainability and resilience.
