MIRANDA HOUSE

University of Delhi

AEC-ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE:
THEORY INTO PRACTICE II
ASSIGNMENT

Name: Chanda Kumari

Roll No: 2022/419
Department: BA (Plitical Science+Geography)
Submitted To: Dr. Om Kumar

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Question 1: What are the various environmental movements in India, and what is the role of various
religions and cultural practices in environmental conservation?

Answer: Introduction: An environmental movement often referred to as the 'green' or 'conservation'

movement is a social or political initiative aimed at conserving or enhancing the environment. These
movements advocate for sustainable natural resource management and frequently emphasize the
need for changes in public policy to protect the environment.

Major Environmental Movements in India

Some of the major environmental movements in India during the period 1700 to 2000 are:

1. Bishnoi Movement

• Year: 1700s
• Place: Khejarli, Marwar region, Rajasthan state.
• Leaders: Amrita Devi along with Bishnoi villagers in Khejarli and surrounding villages.
• Aim: Save sacred trees from being cut down by the king’s soldiers for a new palace.

Amrita Devi, a Bishnoi villager, protested deforestation by hugging sacred trees, resulting in the death
of 363 Bishnoi villagers. Influenced by Guru Maharaj Jambaji, the community follows principles
against harming trees and animals. The king, informed of the incident, apologized, halted logging, and
designated the Bishnoi state as a protected area with enduring legislation safeguarding trees and
animals.

2. Chipko Movement

• Year: 1973
• Place: In Chamoli district and later at Tehri-Garhwal district of Uttarakhand.
• Leaders: Sundarlal Bahuguna, Gaura Devi, Sudesha Devi, Bachni Devi, Chandi Prasad Bhatt,
Govind Singh Rawat, Dhoom Singh Negi, Shamsher Singh Bisht and Ghanasyam Raturi.
• Aim: The main objective was to protect the trees on the Himalayan slopes from the axes of
contractors of the forest.

The Chipko Movement, led by Mr. Bahuguna, emphasized the vital role of trees in preventing soil
erosion, inducing rainfall, and purifying the air. Women in Advani village hugged and tied sacred
threads around trees to demand local communities' rights to forest benefits, especially fodder. The
movement gained momentum in 1978, facing police firings, but a committee set up by the Chief
Minister ruled in favor of the villagers, marking a significant turning point in global eco-development
struggles.

3. Save Silent Valley Movement

• Year: 1978
• Place: Silent Valley, an evergreen tropical forest in the Palakkad district of Kerala, India.
• Leaders: The Kerala Sastra Sahitya Parishad (KSSP) an NGO, and the poet-activist
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 Sughathakumari played an important role in the Silent Valley protests.
• Aim: In order to protect the Silent Valley, the moist evergreen forest from being destroyed by
a hydroelectric project.

The Kerala State Electricity Board proposed a hydroelectric dam in Silent Valley, facing opposition
from NGOs due to environmental concerns. Following public pressure, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
declared the protection of Silent Valley in 1981, leading to the cancellation of the hydroelectric
project in 1983. In 1985, Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi inaugurated Silent Valley National Park.

4. Appiko Movement

• Year: 1983
• Place: Uttara Kannada and Shimoga districts of Karnataka State
• Leaders: Appiko’s greatest strengths lie in it being neither driven by a personality nor having
been formally institutionalised. However, it does have a facilitator in Pandurang Hegde. He
helped launch the movement in 1983.
• Aim: Against the felling and commercialization of natural forest and the ruin of ancient
livelihood.

The Appiko Movement, akin to the Chipko movement, involved locals embracing trees to protest
against the forest department's planned cutting. Utilizing methods like foot marches, slide shows, and
folk dances, the movement aimed to raise awareness. It also emphasized afforestation on depleted
lands and promoted alternative energy resources to alleviate pressure on forests, ultimately achieving
success, though the current status of the project is stopped.

5. Narmada Bachao Andholan (NBA)

• Year: 1985
• Place: Narmada River, which flows through the states of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and
Maharashtra.
• Leaders: Medha Patker, Baba Amte, Adivasis, farmers, environmentalists and human rights
activists.
• Aim: A social movement against a number of large dams being built across the Narmada River.

The Narmada Bachao Andolan originated as a protest against insufficient rehabilitation for Sardar
Sarovar Dam displaced individuals, later advocating for a reduced dam height of 88m. Despite World
Bank withdrawal, the Supreme Court approved construction at 90m in 2000. While unable to prevent
the dam, the NBA has cultivated an anti-big dam sentiment, challenging the development paradigm
with Gandhian principles, and the project is set for completion by 2025 with state government and
market borrowings funding.

The role of various religions and cultural practices in environmental conservation:

Hinduism:
Rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati are considered as sacred. Pilgrimages and rituals
involve reverence for these rivers, leading to initiatives for their conservation and cleanliness. For
example: Namami Gange
Certain trees, like the Peepal and Banyan have spiritual significance. Cows are considered sacred,
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contributing to efforts to protect and care for them.

Buddhism:
Buddhism promotes the principle of ahimsa, or non-violence, which extends to the environment.
Buddhists advocate for the protection of all living beings and ecological balance.

Jainism:
Jainism emphasizes non-violence (ahimsa) and non-possession (aparigraha). Jains often engage in
tree planting, wildlife protection, and vegetarianism as part of their commitment to environmental
conservation.

Sikhism:
Sikhism teaches respect for nature as a manifestation of the Divine. Sikhs are encouraged to live in
harmony with the environment, promoting sustainable practices.

Indigenous Cultural Practices:

Across India, various indigenous communities maintain sacred groves—forest areas protected for
their spiritual significance. These groves contribute to biodiversity conservation.

Traditional Practices:
Many festivals and rituals involve nature-based celebrations. Efforts are made to ensure that these
celebrations do not harm the environment, and some communities engage in eco-friendly practices
during festivals. For example: harela festival in Uttarakhand in which plants are being planted.

Question 2: What are the major wildlife and biodiversity issues in India, and what government
initiatives/projects are in place to conserve and protect wildlife?

Major Wildlife and Biodiversity Issues in India:

Deforestation remains a primary concern as vast expanses of forests are cleared for agriculture,
urbanization, and infrastructure development. This extensive clearing not only leads to the loss of
diverse ecosystems but also disrupts habitats, pushing many species to the brink of extinction.

Biodiversity loss is another pressing issue, with a rapid decline in the variety and abundance of plant
and animal species. This loss of biodiversity poses a severe threat to the ecological balance, genetic
diversity, and overall resilience of ecosystems. Land degradation compounds the problem, driven by
unsustainable agricultural practices that result in soil erosion, loss of fertility, and reduced agricultural
productivity. As a consequence, habitats crucial for various species are compromised, contributing to
further biodiversity decline.

The escalating human-wildlife conflict is a consequence of habitat encroachment, leading to

increased interactions between wildlife and human populations. This conflict poses threats to human
safety, prompts retaliatory killings of animals, and disrupts the delicate balance of ecosystems.
Moreover, the loss of freshwater ecosystems due to dams, water extraction, and pollution adversely
impacts rivers, lakes, and wetlands. This degradation not only affects aquatic biodiversity but also
poses challenges for both wildlife and human communities dependent on these resources

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Climate change exacerbates these challenges, altering habitats, migration patterns, and breeding
cycles of numerous species. This environmental shift, driven by global warming, adds stress to
ecosystems already grappling with human-induced pressures. Concurrently, pollution, stemming
from industrial pollutants, agricultural runoff, plastic waste, and air pollution, contaminates air,
water, and soil, posing a threat to the health of wildlife and their habitats.

Government Initiatives/Projects for Wildlife Conservation in India:

India has implemented a range of legislative frameworks and government initiatives to address the
pressing need for wildlife conservation and environmental protection.

The cornerstone of wildlife protection is the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972. This
comprehensive legislation aims to safeguard wildlife and their habitats by establishing protected
areas such as wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. It also regulates hunting and poaching, providing
legal mechanisms for the prevention of cruelty to wildlife and the preservation of biodiversity.

In tandem with wildlife protection, India has enacted the Forest (Conservation) Act of 1980 to
address deforestation and habitat loss. This legislation requires prior approval for the diversion of
forest land for non-forest purposes such as industrial projects or urban development. By enforcing
this act, the government endeavors to strike a balance between developmental needs and the
conservation of precious forest ecosystems.

Recognizing the impact of pollution on ecosystems, the government has instituted the Water
(Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution)
Act of 1981. These acts aim to regulate and control water and air pollution, respectively, by setting
standards for permissible limits of pollutants. They empower regulatory bodies to monitor and
enforce compliance, contributing to the protection of natural habitats and the species reliant on
them.

The Environment (Protection) Act of 1986 serves as a comprehensive umbrella legislation that
empowers the central government to take measures for the protection and improvement of the
environment. It provides the authority to regulate activities that may have adverse environmental
impacts, laying the foundation for a holistic and integrated approach to environmental conservation.

In addition to these legislative measures, India has launched various conservation projects and
missions. The establishment of Project Tiger in 1973, for instance, exemplifies the commitment to
protecting specific species. This initiative focuses on the conservation and management of tiger
populations and their habitats, leading to the creation of tiger reserves across the country.

The National Mission for Green India, a part of the National Action Plan on Climate Change, aims to
increase forest and tree cover, enhance biodiversity, and promote afforestation.
Moreover, the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Act of 2016 seeks to address the impact of
diverting forest land for development projects. It utilizes funds collected for afforestation and wildlife
conservation, emphasizing the need to mitigate the ecological consequences of such diversions.

Question 3: What are the causes of climate change, and what is India's National Action Plan on
Climate Change?

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Answer: Climate change is primarily driven by human activities that significantly contribute to the increase in
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, resulting in alterations to the Earth's climate patterns.
One major contributor is the widespread phenomenon of deforestation and habitat loss. Rapid urbanization,
infrastructure development, and unsustainable land-use practices lead to the clearing of vast expanses of
forests, which are crucial carbon sinks. The reduction of these vital green areas diminishes the planet's capacity
to absorb CO2, intensifying the greenhouse effect and contributing to global warming. Deforestation not only
releases stored carbon into the atmosphere but also disrupts ecosystems, exacerbating the impacts of climate
change.
India, recognizing the urgency of addressing climate change, has formulated the National Action Plan
on Climate Change (NAPCC). Introduced in 2008, this comprehensive plan outlines the country's
strategies to mitigate and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change across various sectors.
The plan comprises eight national missions, each dedicated to a specific aspect of climate change,
highlighting the interconnectedness of climate-related issues.

The first mission, aptly named the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture, focuses on
sustainable farming practices to enhance resilience in the agricultural sector. By promoting organic
farming, water-use efficiency, and climate-resilient crops, India aims to adapt its agricultural practices
to changing climatic conditions while mitigating the sector's contribution to greenhouse gas
emissions.

Water resource management is addressed through the National Water Mission, emphasizing efficient
water use, conservation, and sustainable management of water resources. This mission recognizes
the critical importance of water in various sectors and aims to develop strategies for adaptation and
mitigation in the face of changing climate patterns.

Biodiversity conservation is a key component of the National Mission for Green India, which seeks to
increase forest and tree cover, enhance biodiversity, and promote afforestation. This mission aligns
with the imperative to protect and restore ecosystems that play a crucial role in climate regulation
and support diverse flora and fauna.

Through these missions, India's NAPCC aims to integrate climate change considerations into various
sectors, fostering sustainable development practices and enhancing the country's resilience to the
impacts of climate change. The plan underscores the importance of a holistic and coordinated
approach to address the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change and its interconnected
impacts on water resources, biodiversity, and overall environmental sustainability.

Question 4: Discuss a short note on:

a. Air Pollution Act
b. Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006
c. Himalayan Development and environmental challenges

Answer:
a. Air Pollution Act: The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981, is a pivotal legislation in India
aimed at mitigating air pollution. Enacted to address the escalating concerns surrounding deteriorating air
quality, the act provides a comprehensive framework for the prevention and control of air pollution. Under this
legislation, regulatory bodies such as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at the central level and State
Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) at the state level are established. These bodies are entrusted with the
responsibility of formulating policies, setting emission standards for industries and vehicles, and monitoring air
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quality. The act empowers authorities to take stringent actions against violators, including imposing fines,
imprisonment, or even shutting down non-compliant industries. It underscores the significance of public
awareness and participation in combating air pollution, reflecting a holistic approach to environmental
protection.

b. Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006:
The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006,
commonly known as the Forest Rights Act (FRA), is a landmark legislation in India focused on
recognizing and securing the rights of forest-dwelling communities, particularly Scheduled Tribes.
Enacted to address historical injustices and safeguard the rights of traditional forest dwellers, the FRA
recognizes the rights of these communities to live in and cultivate forest land. It grants legal
recognition to individual and community forest rights, empowering these communities to protect and
manage their natural resources sustainably. The act emphasizes social justice, conservation, and the
sustainable use of forest resources. By recognizing the customary rights of forest-dwelling
communities, the FRA seeks to strike a balance between conservation efforts and the livelihood needs
of these vulnerable populations.

c. Himalayan Development and Environmental Challenges: The Himalayan region presents a unique
set of challenges and opportunities concerning development and environmental sustainability.
Himalayan ecosystems are exceptionally sensitive to climate change, leading to concerns such as
glacial retreat, altered precipitation patterns, and an increased frequency of natural disasters. The
Himalayan Development and Environmental Challenges encompass a range of issues, including
biodiversity conservation, sustainable land use, and disaster risk reduction. Policies and initiatives are
required to balance the developmental needs of the region with the imperative to preserve its fragile
ecosystems. The promotion of sustainable tourism, afforestation programs, and the implementation
of disaster-resilient infrastructure are critical components of addressing the environmental challenges
in the Himalayas. The conservation and sustainable management of Himalayan resources require
collaborative efforts involving local communities, governments, and international organizations to
ensure the region's ecological integrity while fostering responsible and inclusive development.

Question 5: How does the increasing population in India exert pressure on food and water resources?
Please read a table showing the population from 1960 to 2022 and the corresponding pressure on
resources.

Year Population (in billions) Pressure on Food and

Water Resources
1960 0.45 Low
1970 0.55 Low
1980 0.69 Moderate
1990 0.87 High
2000 1.05 High
2010 1.21 High
2022 1.39 High

Answer: The increasing population in India has exerted substantial pressure on food and water resources over
the decades. As reflected in the table, the population has steadily risen from 0.45 billion in 1960 to 1.39 billion
in 2022. This significant demographic expansion has led to heightened demands for essential resources,

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particularly food and water.

In the early stages, during the 1960s and 1970s, the population pressure on food and water resources
was relatively low. However, as the population continued to grow, reaching 0.87 billion in 1990 and
surpassing 1 billion in 2000, the pressure on these resources escalated to high levels. The demand for
food and water resources became more pronounced, necessitating increased agricultural production,
efficient water management, and strategic planning to meet the burgeoning needs of the population.

By 2022, with a population of 1.39 billion, the pressure on food and water resources in India has
reached a critical juncture. The demand for sustenance, coupled with the requirements of a rapidly
urbanizing society, has strained the availability and sustainability of these vital resources. The
challenge lies not only in producing enough food to feed the growing population but also in ensuring
equitable access to clean and sufficient water for both urban and rural areas.

This escalating pressure on food and water resources underscores the urgency of adopting
sustainable practices and implementing effective policies to manage these essential resources.
Agricultural practices need to be modernized and optimized to enhance productivity while minimizing
environmental impacts. Water resource management strategies, including conservation, efficient
irrigation systems, and wastewater treatment, become imperative to ensure a secure and sustainable
water supply.

Addressing the population pressure on food and water resources requires a multidimensional
approach that encompasses technological advancements, policy interventions, and community
engagement. Sustainable agricultural practices, water conservation measures, and population control
initiatives are vital components of a comprehensive strategy to ensure food and water security in the
face of a growing population. The government, in collaboration with various stakeholders, must
prioritize and implement solutions to mitigate the impact of population growth on these critical
resources and strive for a more sustainable and resilient future.

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