ENVIRONMENTAL

MOVEMENTS IN INDIA
AND ROLE OF
ENVIRONMENTAL NGO
SYBCOM SEMESTER III

BY PRIYANSH KHATRI
HSBC0469
GROUP D11
 Environmental Movements in India and the Role of
Environmental NGOs

Introduction
India, a country known for its rich biodiversity and natural resources, has also faced
numerous environmental challenges. Over the years, various environmental movements have
emerged to address these issues, with environmental non-governmental organizations
(NGOs) playing a vital role in driving change. This project explores the environmental
movements in India and underscores the critical contribution of environmental NGOs in
advocating for environmental protection and sustainable development.

Environmental Movements in India

1. Bishnoi Movement: Protecting Sacred Trees and Wildlife

The Bishnoi Movement, dating back to
the 15th century in Rajasthan, stands as
one of India's earliest and most
remarkable instances of environmental
activism. The Bishnoi community is
renowned for its reverence for nature,
particularly sacred trees and wildlife.
This movement has been characterized
by the willingness of Bishnois to
sacrifice their lives to prevent the felling
of trees and the hunting of animals,
setting a profound precedent for future environmental activism.

2. Jungle Bachao Andolan: Forest Rights and Conservation

In the 1980s, the Jungle Bachao Andolan emerged, aiming to
protect the forests of Bihar and Jharkhand while advocating for the
rights of forest-dwelling communities. This movement drew
attention to the critical issues of sustainable forest management and
the recognition of indigenous peoples' rights to forest resources.
The Jungle Bachao Andolan remains a vital component of the
broader environmental movement in India.
3. Clean Ganga Movement: Restoring the Sacred River
The Clean Ganga Movement, often referred to as the
Ganga Action Plan, was initiated in the 1980s with the
ambitious goal of restoring the purity of the Ganges
River. This iconic movement focused on addressing
industrial pollution and inadequate sewage disposal
practices, emphasizing not only the ecological
importance but also the cultural and spiritual
significance of the river to millions of Indians. The
Clean Ganga Movement stands as a symbol of India's
commitment to environmental restoration.

4. Chipko Movement
The Chipko Movement, which originated
in the 1970s in the state of Uttarakhand, is
one of India's most iconic environmental
movements. The term "chipko" means "to
hug" or "to cling," signifying the
protesters' action of hugging trees to
prevent them from being felled. Led
predominantly by women, this movement
aimed to protect forests from
deforestation, highlighting the importance
of community participation in forest
conservation. The success of the Chipko
Movement led to policy changes and
increased awareness about forest
conservation issues.

6. Silent Valley Movement

The Silent Valley Movement, which gained momentum in Kerala during the 1970s, aimed to
protect the ecologically sensitive Silent Valley from a proposed hydroelectric project. The
movement emphasized the need to preserve this biodiversity hotspot, which is home to
unique flora and fauna. The successful culmination of the Silent Valley Movement resulted in
the protection of this ecologically significant region.
Role of Environmental NGOs
Environmental NGOs in India have played a pivotal role in
advancing environmental causes and promoting sustainable
development. Their contributions encompass a wide range of
activities:

1. Advocacy and Awareness

Environmental NGOs actively engage in advocacy and awareness campaigns. They
organize seminars, workshops, and awareness drives to educate communities and
policymakers about critical environmental issues. By fostering a better understanding
of environmental challenges, they motivate individuals and communities to take
action.

2. Policy Research and Analysis

Many environmental NGOs conduct in-depth research and analysis of environmental
policies and regulations. They provide valuable insights and recommendations to the
government, acting as watchdogs to ensure the enforcement of environmental laws
and regulations. Their research also contributes to evidence-based policymaking.

3. Grassroots Activism and Community Empowerment

A significant strength of environmental NGOs lies in their ability to work at the
grassroots level. They mobilize communities, empowering them to actively
participate in conservation efforts. Through capacity building and community
engagement, NGOs enable local communities to protect their natural resources and
preserve their traditional ways of life.

4. Legal Action
Environmental NGOs are often at the forefront of legal battles to safeguard the
environment. When environmental laws are violated, they may initiate public interest
litigations (PILs) and legal actions to hold individuals or corporations accountable.
Landmark judgments for environmental protection have resulted from such legal
actions.

Environmental Movements and Their Impact

1. The Legacy of the Bishnoi Movement

The Bishnoi Movement's legacy extends beyond its immediate successes in protecting
trees and wildlife. It serves as a timeless inspiration for similar movements across India
 and the world. The movement's enduring message of peaceful, grassroots environmental
activism continues to resonate in today's environmental movement.

2. Jungle Bachao Andolan: Forest Rights and Conservation

The Jungle Bachao Andolan's influence extends beyond its regional focus. It has played a
pivotal role in highlighting the significance of sustainable forest management and
advocating for the recognition of indigenous peoples' rights to forest resources. The
movement stands as a testament to the power of collective action in safeguarding natural
resources and cultural heritage.

3. Clean Ganga Movement: A National Commitment

The Clean Ganga Movement remains a symbol of India's commitment to restoring and
protecting its rivers. While significant progress has been made, the movement continues
to emphasize the importance of addressing industrial pollution, sewage disposal, and the
holistic restoration of the Ganges River basin.

4. Chipko Movement's Legacy

The Chipko Movement's impact extends beyond its immediate success in preventing tree
felling. It served as an inspiration for similar movements across India and the world. The
idea of peaceful, grassroots environmental activism, embodied by the Chipko Movement,
has left a lasting legacy in the environmental movement.

5. NBA's Influence on Dam Projects

NBA's activism led to greater scrutiny of large dam projects in India. It prompted a
reevaluation of the environmental and social costs associated with such projects. While
not all dam projects were halted, NBA's advocacy contributed to more comprehensive
environmental impact assessments and resettlement policies.

Challenges and Future Directions

While environmental movements and NGOs have made significant progress, several
challenges persist:

1. Resource Constraints
Many environmental NGOs struggle with limited resources, hindering their ability to
undertake large-scale projects and advocacy efforts.
 2. Policy Implementation
Despite advocating for environmental policies, NGOs often face challenges in
ensuring their effective implementation. Bureaucratic hurdles and resistance from
vested interests can impede progress.

3. Climate Change
The emergence of climate change as a global crisis requires environmental NGOs to
adapt and focus on mitigation and adaptation strategies.

4. Community Engagement
Effective community engagement remains critical for the success of environmental
initiatives. NGOs must continue to empower local communities to become stewards
of their natural surroundings.

Conclusion
Environmental movements in India have been instrumental in raising awareness about
environmental issues and advocating for change. Environmental NGOs have played a vital
role in these movements by providing expertise, mobilizing communities, conducting
research, and advocating for policy changes. As India continues to grapple with
environmental challenges, the collaboration between citizens, NGOs, and the government
remains crucial for achieving a sustainable and ecologically balanced future. The dedication
and passion of individuals and organizations working in the environmental sector are
essential in addressing India's environmental concerns and preserving its natural heritage.
Through continued efforts and collaboration, India can strive for a greener and more
sustainable future.

Bibliography
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projects and environmental advocacy)
14. Environmental Action Group (EAG). (Official website for grassroots environmental
initiatives)
15. Kalpavriksh. (Official website for environmental research and campaigns)