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History of Environmental Protection in India
History of Environmental Protection in India
The History of the evolution of Law to handle pollution and other environmental problems in
India can be studied under the four periods;
1. In Ancient India
2. In Medieval India
3. During the British period; and
4. The post Independence period.
Under Arthashastra various punishments were prescribed for cutting trees, damaging
forests, and for killing animals etc. Wild life in sanctuaries enjoyed complete protection from
being killed except when they turn harmful. There were also punishments prescribed for
causing of pollution and uncivic sanitation.
To sum up ancient India had a philosophy of environmental management enshrined in old
injunctions as they were contained in many scriptures. Abuse and exploitation of nature for
immediate gains was considered unjust, irreligious and against environmental ethics of Hindu
culture.