Neglect Towards Environmental Sustainability The Environmental Challenges India Faces Today

By- Ramchandra Guha (Historian) 

The environmental challenges India faces today are a direct consequence of poorly designed economic policies. But who is responsible for the severe depletion of resources in rural areas?
In 1994, historian Eric Hobsbawm wrote The Age of Extremes, detailing the developments of the 20th century, where he highlighted how industrialized nations devastated their natural environments. He noted that if industrialization had reached pre-1991 communist countries or the developing world at the same level as the West, the planet would have been in far worse condition.
This observation is particularly relevant to India today, which continues to grapple with significant environmental issues. Despite global conversations on sustainability, India’s economic policies have contributed to reckless exploitation of resources, leaving rural and underprivileged populations to suffer the most.

Historical Neglect of Environmental Issues
In 1973, the Chipko Movement—led by villagers in Uttarakhand—became a landmark in India’s environmental activism. By embracing trees to prevent their felling, local communities emphasized the importance of forest conservation. This movement sparked debates on the balance between development and environmental preservation. However, the extent to which such protests influenced policy remains debatable.
Over the decades, India has witnessed growing industrialization and urban expansion at the cost of severe deforestation, water pollution, and biodiversity loss. While metropolitan cities benefit from economic growth, rural communities experience declining agricultural productivity, water scarcity, and displacement due to large-scale projects.
Despite scientific evidence and the warnings of environmentalists, decision-makers have often ignored or undermined sustainability concerns. The primary focus has remained on GDP growth, infrastructure development, and industrial expansion without adequate planning for ecological balance.

A Shift in Public Awareness
Environmental awareness in India has increased over the years. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and the Namami Gange program highlight governmental efforts to address pollution and cleanliness. However, these initiatives remain insufficient against the scale of environmental degradation the country faces.
If India's leadership and citizens fail to address the pressing issue of sustainability, the country risks irreparable damage to its natural resources. The question remains: How can India achieve economic progress without sacrificing its environment? The answer lies in sustainable policies, responsible industrial practices, and active community participation.

Future Prospects: 2025 and Beyond
The year 2025 will mark significant global discussions on environmental policy. While industrialized nations have committed to reducing carbon emissions, India must actively participate in international environmental reforms. If current trends continue, India might struggle with increased climate-related disasters, water shortages, and air pollution crises.
The government, businesses, and individuals must work collectively to shift towards green energy, implement stricter pollution control measures, and promote sustainable agriculture. The responsibility of preserving India's environment is not limited to policymakers but extends to every citizen. Only with proactive efforts can India strike a balance between development and ecological preservation.