Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Environmental movements, born out of growing awareness of ecological degradation, have increasingly shaped government policies globally and in India. From localized struggles against deforestation to broader campaigns addressing climate change, these movements have acted as catalysts for policy shifts. The Chipko movement of the 1970s, for instance, laid the groundwork for community forestry initiatives. In recent years, the urgency of environmental issues, coupled with increased public participation and judicial interventions, has led to a more responsive, albeit often reactive, policy landscape. This answer will discuss the impact of these movements on government policies, examining key examples and assessing their effectiveness.
Early Environmental Movements and Initial Policy Responses (1970s-1990s)
The initial phase of environmental activism in India was characterized by localized movements focused on resource conservation. The Chipko Movement (1973), protesting deforestation in the Himalayas, led to a moratorium on felling of trees in the region and influenced the formulation of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980. Similarly, the Silent Valley Project (1970s-80s), opposing a hydroelectric project in Kerala, raised awareness about biodiversity conservation and contributed to the strengthening of environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedures.
The Bhopal Gas Tragedy (1984) was a watershed moment, exposing the inadequacies of industrial safety regulations. This led to the enactment of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, providing a comprehensive framework for environmental protection and pollution control. The Act empowered the government to set standards for emissions and discharges, and to take action against polluters.
Rise of Environmental Justice Movements and Judicial Activism (2000s)
The 21st century witnessed the emergence of environmental justice movements, focusing on the rights of marginalized communities affected by environmental degradation. The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA), protesting the construction of large dams, highlighted the social and environmental costs of development projects. While the NBA couldn't halt the Sardar Sarovar Dam, it significantly influenced the rehabilitation policies for displaced persons.
Judicial activism played a crucial role in environmental governance during this period. The Supreme Court, through Public Interest Litigations (PILs), issued landmark orders on issues such as vehicular pollution in Delhi (M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, 1998), protection of the Taj Mahal (M.C. Mehta v. Union of India, 1996), and coastal zone management. These orders forced the government to implement stricter environmental regulations and invest in pollution control measures.
Contemporary Environmental Movements and Policy Responses (2010s-Present)
Recent environmental movements have broadened their scope to address issues like climate change, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss. The growing awareness of climate change has prompted the government to launch initiatives like the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) 2008, encompassing eight national missions focusing on solar energy, enhanced energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture.
Movements against plastic pollution, such as those advocating for bans on single-use plastics, have led to state governments implementing regulations restricting their use. The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (2014), while primarily a sanitation campaign, also contributed to raising awareness about waste management and reducing plastic litter. The focus on renewable energy has been boosted by the International Solar Alliance (ISA) (2015), an initiative led by India and France.
However, challenges remain. The dilution of environmental regulations in the name of economic development, as seen in the amendments to the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006, have faced strong opposition from environmental groups. The ongoing farmer protests against the Farm Laws 2020 also highlighted concerns about the environmental impact of agricultural policies.
Impact on Specific Policy Areas
| Policy Area | Movement Influence | Policy Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Forest Conservation | Chipko Movement, Appiko Movement | Forest Conservation Act, 1980; Joint Forest Management (JFM) |
| Pollution Control | Bhopal Gas Tragedy, M.C. Mehta PILs | Environment (Protection) Act, 1986; National Ambient Air Quality Standards |
| Climate Change | Youth climate movements, NGOs | National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC); International Solar Alliance (ISA) |
| Coastal Zone Management | Coastal communities, NGOs | Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification |
Conclusion
Environmental movements have undeniably played a significant role in shaping government policies in India, leading to the enactment of crucial legislation and the implementation of various environmental programs. However, the effectiveness of these policies is often hampered by weak enforcement, bureaucratic hurdles, and conflicting economic priorities. A more integrated and participatory approach, involving local communities, civil society organizations, and government agencies, is crucial for achieving sustainable environmental governance. Future policies must prioritize ecological integrity alongside economic development, ensuring a balance between human needs and environmental protection.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.